Lutheran vs. Presbyterian — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 8, 2024
"Lutheran" is Christian denomination rooted in Martin Luther's teachings, emphasizing justification by faith. "Presbyterian" is branch of Protestantism shaped by John Calvin's doctrines, focusing on predestination and distinctive church governance system.
Difference Between Lutheran and Presbyterian
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Lutheran" denominations follow Martin Luther's principles, emphasizing salvation through faith alone and the authority of Scripture. "Presbyterian" churches, inspired by John Calvin, stress predestination and God's sovereignty in salvation.
"Lutheran" worship includes liturgical practices and sacraments like baptism and communion as means of grace. "Presbyterian" worship is less liturgical and more focused on preaching, with sacraments viewed as symbolic ordinances.
"Lutheran" governance typically involves bishops and hierarchical structures. "Presbyterian" governance is distinctively representative, with elected elders forming councils called presbyteries.
"Lutheran" theology accepts some confessional documents, like the Augsburg Confession. "Presbyterian" theology aligns with the Westminster Confession, emphasizing God's covenant with believers.
"Lutheran" clergy are usually ordained after completing seminary education. "Presbyterian" clergy must undergo rigorous theological training and be approved by their presbytery.
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Comparison Chart
Founders
Martin Luther
John Calvin and John Knox
Key Doctrines
Justification by faith, authority of Scripture
Predestination, God's sovereignty
Worship Style
Liturgical with sacraments
Less liturgical, preaching-focused
Governance
Episcopal or synodical
Representative via presbyteries
Confessional Basis
Augsburg Confession
Westminster Confession
Compare with Definitions
Lutheran
Relating to the synodical or episcopal church governance structure.
The Lutheran synod met to discuss the new policies.
Presbyterian
Pertaining to the Protestant branch influenced by John Calvin's teachings.
Presbyterian doctrine includes God's sovereignty.
Lutheran
Pertaining to the Christian denomination founded on Martin Luther's teachings.
Lutheran beliefs emphasize salvation by grace through faith.
Presbyterian
Using a church governance system with presbyteries and elected elders.
The Presbyterian elders met to review church matters.
Lutheran
Embracing a liturgical form of worship with sacraments.
Lutheran services include a structured liturgy.
Presbyterian
Emphasizing predestination and God's predetermined plan.
Presbyterian theology teaches that salvation is preordained.
Lutheran
Advocating the importance of Scripture's authority over church tradition.
Lutheran doctrine holds the Bible as the ultimate authority.
Presbyterian
Following the Westminster Confession and other Reformed traditions.
The Presbyterian Church adheres to the Westminster Confession.
Lutheran
Following the theology and practices outlined in the Augsburg Confession.
Lutheran churches often recite the Nicene Creed.
Presbyterian
Recognized by a focus on covenant theology and God's promises.
Presbyterian ministers often preach about the importance of God's covenants.
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
Common Curiosities
What is the main difference in governance between Lutherans and Presbyterians?
Lutherans often have a hierarchical structure, while Presbyterians use a representative system with presbyteries.
Do Presbyterians practice infant baptism like Lutherans?
Yes, both denominations practice infant baptism.
Do Lutherans and Presbyterians share similar worship styles?
Lutheran worship is more liturgical, while Presbyterian services focus heavily on preaching.
Do Lutherans believe in predestination?
Lutherans believe in single predestination (God knows who will be saved) but not double predestination like Calvinists.
What is the primary confessional document for Presbyterians?
The Westminster Confession is the primary confessional document for Presbyterians.
Do Lutherans and Presbyterians have different views on communion?
Yes, Lutherans believe in the real presence of Christ in communion, while Presbyterians view it symbolically.
Are Presbyterian services longer than Lutheran services?
This varies, but Presbyterian services may include extended preaching.
Is Scripture equally important to both denominations?
Yes, both consider Scripture authoritative, but Lutherans prioritize it above church tradition.
Are Lutherans and Presbyterians part of the same Protestant tradition?
They are both Protestant, but Lutherans follow Luther's teachings while Presbyterians follow Calvin's.
Do Presbyterians have bishops like some Lutherans do?
No, Presbyterians use a system of elected elders instead.
Do Lutherans and Presbyterians accept each other's baptisms?
Generally, both accept each other's baptisms if they are performed in the name of the Trinity.
Do Lutherans and Presbyterians share similar theological education requirements?
Both require rigorous theological training for clergy.
Is church membership handled differently between Lutherans and Presbyterians?
Membership practices vary, but both typically require some form of instruction or affirmation of faith.
Do Lutherans and Presbyterians have distinctive liturgical calendars?
Yes, Lutherans often follow a detailed liturgical calendar, while Presbyterians are less formal.
Are Lutheran and Presbyterian churches ecumenically cooperative?
In some regions, they cooperate on shared projects but maintain distinct identities.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
