Tiffany Coker and Pastor Jeff Cranston sit down to recap key takeaways from their two-part conversation with Pastor Erik Janke of May River Lutheran Church. From Martin Luther’s original teachings to the three major Lutheran denominations in the U.S., they explore the key doctrines, worship practices, and theological distinctives that shape the Lutheran tradition today.

🎉 P.S. If you missed Parts 1 and 2, be sure to listen to Episodes 238 and 239 to hear Pastor Erik share firsthand about Lutheran worship, communion, baptism, and more!

Here’s What We Discussed:

01:13 – Where the Term “Lutheran” Comes From
Originally a term of mockery, “Lutheran” was used to describe followers of Martin Luther. Over time, it came to represent those who upheld the truth of the gospel as Luther taught it.

03:49 – Key Historical Foundations of Lutheran Theology
Luther’s teachings emphasized God's sovereignty, grace, the authority of Scripture, and the central distinction between law and gospel. His theology was influenced by St. Augustine and later codified in the Book of Concord (1580).

05:36 – Three Main Lutheran Denominations in the U.S.
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (conservative), the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (liberal), and the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (the smallest and most conservative, of which Pastor Erik is a part).

07:48 – What a Lutheran Church Service Looks Like
Lutheran worship is typically liturgical, featuring a set order including confession, absolution, creeds, Scripture readings, and a homily. Pastors wear vestments and follow the Christian calendar, with symbolic colors for seasons.

10:44 – Symbols and Vestments in Lutheran Worship
Pastors often wear an alb and a stole—the stole symbolizing the yoke of ministry. Vestment colors shift with the church calendar (e.g., white, purple, black), and elements like altar placement and music reflect deep symbolism.

13:39 – Pulpit and Altar Placement
In many Lutheran churches, the altar is central while the pulpit is off to the side—reflecting a theology centered on Word and Sacrament. This contrasts with many Protestant churches where the pulpit is front and center.

14:00 – Lutheran Polity: Governance and Leadership

Polity varies by denomination. Some Lutheran churches follow an Episcopal-style structure with bishops and district leaders, while others operate congregationally with more local church autonomy.

15:36 – Theological Distinctives: Law & Gospel + Two Kingdoms
Lutherans interpret Scripture through the lens of law (which condemns) and gospel (which forgives). They also hold to the Two Kingdoms Doctrine: Christians live under both civil government (temporal) and God’s spiritual kingdom—each with its own guidance.

Key Quote:

“We should ever read the Scriptures without forgetting the distinction between law and grace.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston

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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!