 |
 |
What We Believe about ....
The Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) is the third largest Lutheran body in the United States. The WELS holds to the teachings of the Bible, the inspired Word of God, in its entirety. While these true teachings were corrupted for many years, men like Martin Luther, during the time of the Reformation about 500 years ago, helped restore them. We therefore hold that our beliefs reflect the original beliefs and doctrines of the early Christian Church and of its apostles. Our doctrine is Scripturally based and maintains that salvation comes from faith alone and not by works, instead placing emphasis on the redeeming work of Christ and how the Holy Spirit works those gifts Jesus won for us, namely forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and salvation, in us.
These are the central teachings of the Lutheran Church:
The Bible
We believe that the Bible is the true Word of God. It is inspired by the Holy Spirit. As a result, every statement in the Bible is the truth. One part of the Bible explains another part. We are to read and study it diligently, since it clearly teaches all we need to know in order to obtain our eternal salvation.
The Trinity
We believe there is only one true God. This God is invisible, holy, eternal, and has all power and wisdom. In the Bible God reveals himself as three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They are equal in power, glory, and in every other quality. It is God who created, redeemed, and sanctified us.
Creation
We believe that at the beginning of time God created heaven and earth and all creatures. He did this in six days. He spoke his almighty Word to create all things. Man and woman were set apart as God’s special creation.
God's Law
We believe that God wrote His law in people’s hearts at creation. The human conscience bears witness to that law. The knowledge of the law was blurred in people’s hearts by sin. God repeated his law in the Ten Commandments. God’s law demands obedience in our thoughts, speech, and actions. It condemns all who sin. Therefore, no one can be saved by keeping the law. God’s law serves to show us our sins, to warn us of God’s anger against sin, and to guide us in our Christian life.
Sin
We believe that the first man and woman lost the image of God when they gave in to the temptation of Satan and disobeyed God’s command. Since that time all people are conceived and born in sin, desire to do what is evil, and are dead spiritually. Therefore, we are unable to reconcile ourselves to God by our own efforts and deeds.
Jesus Christ
We believe that Jesus Christ is the Savior of everyone. He is the eternal Son of God, equal to the Father and the Holy Spirit. He is also the son of the Virgin Mary. He became man to redeem all people. Taking our place, he lived a perfect life keeping the law of God for us. He also died as our innocent substitute on the cross to pay a price sufficient for everyone’s sin. After rising from the dead, Jesus ascended into heaven. On the Last Day, he will judge all people, both living and dead.
Conversion
We believe that the Holy Spirit causes the heart to trust in Jesus as its Savior. The Holy Spirit creates and maintains faith by means of the gospel in God’s Word and the Sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion. We believe, therefore, that our conversion is not our work. It is entirely the work of God’s grace. Grace is God’s undeserved love and mercy that he shows to all mankind through Jesus Christ. Rejection of the gospel is, however, entirely our own fault. Whoever remains in faith to the end of life will be saved eternally.
Sanctification and Good Works
We believe that faith in Jesus Christ is living and active. Therefore, faith produces good deeds that are pleasing to God. True faith, nourished by God’s Word, delights to do the holy will of God. In this sinful world, however, even the best works of a Christian are still dirtied with sin. We will never be perfect in this life. For Jesus’ sake, our Father in heaven graciously considers the imperfect efforts of a Christian acceptable.
Baptism
We believe that baptism is a holy act instituted by God. Using water and God’s Word, it offers and gives the forgiveness of sins, spiritual life, and eternal salvation. It is meant for young and old, including children. Infants also are sinful and therefore need the spiritual rebirth brought about through baptism.
Holy Communion
We believe that Holy Communion is a holy act instituted by Christ. Together with bread and wine, we receive Jesus’ true body and blood. In this special meal, Jesus gives the forgiveness of sins, strengthens our faith, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe. Only people who repent of their sins and receive proper instruction in the Christian faith should be admitted to this sacrament.
Church Fellowship
We believe that true unity of the church is evident when Christians agree in their confession to the doctrine revealed in Scripture. It is not necessary that all agree in matters of church ritual or organization. The New Testament gives no commands about such matters. Those united in faith and doctrine will express their unity by joining in worship, communion, prayer, and church work. We cannot engage in religious association with those whose confession reveals that error is allowed, taught, or defended.
Want to learn more?
For any questions about about our church and our beliefs, please contact the church office at 734-782-3726
