Lutheran vs. Presbyterian: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on February 1, 2024
Lutheranism is a major branch of Protestant Christianity which identifies with the theology of Martin Luther, while Presbyterianism is a form of Protestant Christianity, primarily known for its distinctively Reformed theology and governance by elders.
Key Differences
Lutheranism, based on the teachings of Martin Luther, emphasizes salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and the authority of the Bible and the Book of Concord. Presbyterianism, rooted in the teachings of John Calvin and part of the Reformed tradition, stresses the sovereignty of God and the authority of the Bible.
Lutheran churches typically have a hierarchical structure with bishops, while Presbyterian churches are governed by a system of elders (presbyters) and operate under a representative form of church government.
Lutherans traditionally hold to two sacraments – baptism and the Eucharist (Lord's Supper) – and believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Presbyterians also practice two sacraments, baptism and the Lord's Supper, but typically view the Eucharist as a symbolic remembrance of Christ's death.
Lutheran worship tends to be liturgical and follows set patterns and rituals based on historic liturgies. Presbyterian worship can range from liturgical to more contemporary styles, but generally places a strong emphasis on preaching and scriptural reading.
In Lutheranism, clergy (pastors) are important for administering sacraments and guiding the congregation, often with a strong focus on pastoral care. In Presbyterianism, ministers preach and teach but share leadership with a group of elders elected from the congregation.
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Comparison Chart
Theological Basis
Teachings of Martin Luther
Teachings of John Calvin and the Reformed tradition
Church Governance
Hierarchical with bishops
Governed by a system of elders (presbyters)
View of Sacraments
Baptism and Eucharist with real presence of Christ
Baptism and symbolic Eucharist
Worship Style
Liturgical, based on historic liturgies
Range from liturgical to contemporary, emphasis on preaching
Clergy Role
Central in sacraments and pastoral care
Shared leadership with elected elders
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Lutheran and Presbyterian Definitions
Lutheran
The Lutheran tradition maintains a strong liturgical worship style, rooted in historical practices.
The Lutheran service followed a liturgical pattern with hymns and readings.
Presbyterian
Presbyterianism is a Christian denomination known for its Reformed theology and governance by elders.
The Presbyterian church focuses on community decision-making through its elders.
Lutheran
Lutheranism is distinguished by its view of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist.
The Lutheran pastor spoke about the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Presbyterian
Presbyterians practice two sacraments, baptism and the Lord's Supper, with a symbolic interpretation.
In the Presbyterian service, the Lord's Supper was observed as a remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice.
Lutheran
Lutherans often organize their church governance with a hierarchical structure including bishops.
The Lutheran bishop presided over the regional synod meeting.
Presbyterian
Presbyterian worship services typically feature a strong emphasis on preaching and the Bible.
The Presbyterian minister delivered a powerful sermon based on a scriptural passage.
Lutheran
Lutheran theology emphasizes justification by faith alone and the authority of scripture.
In her Lutheran faith, she found comfort in the idea of salvation through faith.
Presbyterian
Presbyterians emphasize the sovereignty of God, scriptural authority, and predestination.
Presbyterian teachings often explore the concept of predestination in their sermons.
Lutheran
Lutheran refers to the branch of Christianity that follows the religious teachings of Martin Luther.
The Lutheran church nearby is known for its vibrant community outreach.
Presbyterian
In Presbyterianism, church governance is carried out by a representative system of elders.
The Presbyterian congregation elected new elders to guide their community.
Lutheran
Of or relating to the religious doctrines of Martin Luther, especially the doctrine of justification by faith alone.
Presbyterian
Of or relating to ecclesiastical government by presbyters.
Lutheran
Of or relating to the Protestant denomination adhering to these doctrines.
Presbyterian
Presbyterian Of or relating to a Presbyterian Church.
Lutheran
A member of the Lutheran Church.
Presbyterian
A member or an adherent of a Presbyterian Church.
Lutheran
Of or pertaining to Luther; adhering to the doctrines of Luther or the Lutheran Church.
Presbyterian
Of or pertaining to a presbyter, or to ecclesiastical government by presbyters; relating to those who uphold church government by presbyters; also, to the doctrine, discipline, and worship of a communion so governed.
Lutheran
One who accepts or adheres to the doctrines of Luther or the Lutheran Church.
Presbyterian
Of or pertaining to a presbyter, or to ecclesiastical government by presbyters; relating to those who uphold church government by presbyters; also, to the doctrine, discipline, and worship of a communion so governed.
Lutheran
Follower of Lutheranism
Presbyterian
One who maintains the validity of ordination and government by presbyters; a member of the Presbyterian church.
Lutheran
Of or pertaining to Martin Luther or his teachings;
The Lutheran doctrine of justification by faith alone
Presbyterian
A follower of Calvinism as taught in the Presbyterian Church
Lutheran
Of or pertaining to or characteristic of the branch of the Protestant Church adhering to the views of Luther;
Lutheran doctrines
FAQs
How is the Presbyterian church governed?
Presbyterian churches are governed by a system of elders elected from the congregation.
Do Lutherans have bishops?
Yes, many Lutheran denominations have a hierarchical structure that includes bishops.
What is Presbyterianism?
Presbyterianism is a Protestant Christian denomination known for its Reformed theology and elder-led governance.
What is distinctive about Lutheran worship?
Lutheran worship is often liturgical, following historic patterns and rituals.
Can women be clergy in the Lutheran church?
Many Lutheran denominations ordain women as clergy.
What sacraments do Lutherans practice?
Lutherans practice two sacraments: baptism and the Eucharist.
What role do elders play in the Presbyterian Church?
Elders in the Presbyterian Church play key roles in governance and spiritual oversight.
How do Presbyterians view the Lord’s Supper?
Presbyterians view the Lord's Supper as a symbolic remembrance of Christ's death.
Do Presbyterians have a set liturgy?
Presbyterian worship styles can vary, but there is often an emphasis on preaching and less on set liturgy.
How do Lutherans interpret the Bible?
Lutherans interpret the Bible through the lens of Luther's teachings, emphasizing both law and gospel.
What is the main doctrine of Lutheranism?
Lutheranism is centered on the justification by faith alone and the authority of scripture.
Do Lutherans believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist?
Yes, Lutherans believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Are social issues addressed in Presbyterian churches?
Presbyterian churches often engage with social issues, reflecting their emphasis on social justice.
Is confirmation practiced in Lutheranism?
Yes, confirmation is a common practice in Lutheran churches.
Do Presbyterians believe in infant baptism?
Yes, Presbyterians commonly practice infant baptism.
How do Presbyterians interpret the sacraments?
Presbyterians interpret sacraments as means of grace, with a symbolic emphasis.
What is the Presbyterian view on predestination?
Presbyterians, following Reformed theology, often hold a belief in predestination.
Do Lutherans use a specific version of the Bible?
Lutherans often use translations like the NRSV, but there's no single mandatory version.
Are Presbyterians part of the Reformed tradition?
Yes, Presbyterianism is a part of the Reformed tradition in Christianity.
What is the Lutheran view on other Christian denominations?
Lutherans generally hold ecumenical views, recognizing other Christian denominations.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
