Adiaphora The term “adiaphora” is a transliteration of the Greek term (Latin: indifferentia; undifferentiated matters) meaning indifferent things.  (via Dictionary of Luther and the Lutheran Traditions) Romans 14:2-3 2 One person’s…

Sanctuary A holy place where God is present. In the wilderness, that was the tent of meeting; in the time of Solomon, it was the Temple at Jerusalem. In both…

Eucharist (YOO-kuh-rist) A Greek word meaning “thanksgiving” used in reference to the meal of Holy Communion. We call this meal Eucharist because we eat and drink in a spirit of…

Kyrie (KEER-ee-ay) A short repeated invocation (in Greek or in translation) used in many Christian liturgies, especially at the beginning of the Eucharist or as a response in a litany.…

Sacrament An act that imparts God’s grace, using visible means, connected with the Word of God, and commanded by Christ; for Lutherans, Holy Baptism and Holy Communion. (via Lutheran Basics…

Liturgy Liturgy (meaning “work of the people”) is what we do when we gather to worship. The chief liturgy of Lutherans is the Holy Communion, the weekly Lord’s day event…

Salvation God’s work to rescue us from the consequences of our sin, so that we might live in restored relationship on this earth and eternally. (via Lutheran Basics for Teachers)…

Atonement The work of Jesus to restore our relationship with God. (via Lutheran Basics for Teachers) Romans 5:10-11 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through…

Covenant A mutual agreement between two or more people to do (or refrain from) doing certain acts; sometimes the undertaking of one of the parties. (via The Handy Bible Dictionary…

Absolution The forgiveness of our sins in the name of Jesus. (via Lutheran Basics for Teachers)   1 John 1:8-9 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive…

Justification God’s declaration that our relationship with God has been made right because of the work of Jesus. (via Lutheran Basics for Teachers) Romans 5:1-2 1Therefore, since we are justified…

Grace God’s gift of love and forgiveness freely given to undeserving sinners. (via Lutheran Basics for Teachers) Ephesians 2:8–9 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this…

Sola A Latin word meaning “alone” or “only.” The Lutheran reformers used the phrase “Sola fide” to make their case that one is saved by faith alone – not by…