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Lutheran Beliefs - p. 5
The teachings of a truly Lutheran Church are based on the words written by the prophets of the Old Testament and the apostles of the New Testament. The Bible tells us about Jesus Christ.
On this and the following pages are succinct explanations regarding some of the beliefs of the Lutheran Church.
Saved By Grace Through Faith
(Ephesians 1:4-6, Romans 5:15; 11:5-6, Acts 10:43; 15:11; 16:30-31, John 1:12, Galatians 2:16, John 3:36)
Before the world was created, God chose those individuals whom he would, in time, convert through the gospel and preserve in the faith to eternal life.
This choosing is in no way caused by qualities or actions God had foreseen in the people whom he chose. This shows how completely salvation is ours by God's grace alone. Grace is God's undeserved love and mercy that he shows to all mankind through Jesus Christ.
Faith is a repentant sinner's acceptance of Jesus Christ as his or her only Savior and full trust in his worthiness for forgiveness of sins and salvation. Such faith is not a personal achievement or an act of human worthiness.
The Holy Spirit creates faith. Whoever remains in the faith to the end of life will be saved eternally. Salvation is not possible without faith.
 Conversion (1Corinthians 6:11, John 17:7, 2Thessalonians 2:13-14, Romans 10:17)
The Holy Spirit causes the heart to trust in Jesus as its Savior. The Holy Spirit creates and maintains faith by means of the gospel in God's Word and the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion.
We believe, therefore, that our conversion is not our own work. It is entirely the work of God's grace. Rejection of the gospel is, however, entirely our own fault.
An Open Invitation
St. John Lutheran Church in Libertyville is dedicated to spreading the entire truth of God as found in the Bible.
We invite you to stop by for worship or contact our pastor to discuss the questions and/or concerns on your mind. You'll find us to be open and honestly interested in conveying how God's word fits into our lives.
St. John Lutheran Church
501 W. Park Ave. (Rt. 176)
Libertyville, IL 60048
847.362.4424
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