Lutherans are Christians who accept the teachings of Martin Luther, a 16th century German priest and theologian who realized that there were significant differences between what he read in the Bible and the practices of the Roman Catholic church at that time. His hope was that the church would reform its practice and preaching to be more consistent with the Word of God as contained in the Bible.

Luther did not want to start a new church but his desire for reform led to his excommunication. Those who accepted Luther’s suggested reforms became known as ―Lutherans

The essence of Lutheran beliefs is that:

• We are saved by the grace of God alone—not by anything we do;
• Our salvation is through faith alone—a confident trust in God, who in Christ promises us forgiveness, life and salvation; and
• The Bible is the norm for faith and life—the true standard by which teachings and doctrines are to be judged.