Lutheran Church
Definition
The collection of Protestant denominations rooted in the teachings of Martin Luther. It was one of the first Protestant branches to emerge from the Reformation.
Analogy
If Christianity is a tree, then Catholicism and Orthodoxy are like its two main branches. The Lutheran Church would be a new branch sprouting off from Catholicism - similar but distinct, with its own unique characteristics.
Related terms
Sacraments: Religious ceremonies or acts considered to have particular significance; in Lutheran belief, there are two (Baptism and Eucharist), unlike seven in Catholic doctrine.
Justification by Faith Alone: A key doctrine of Lutheranism and other Protestant denominations stating that faith alone, not deeds, leads to salvation.
Sola Scriptura: Latin for "Scripture alone", it's a Christian theological doctrine held by some Protestant groups asserting Bible as the sole source of authority for Christian faith and practice.
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