Why Be Lutheran

[@Scoma19]

Me watching this as someone who is already Lutheran: "Hmmmmm yes I agree"

[@8765slipknot]

Very self selective (coming from a fellow lutheran)

[@Swiftninjatrev]

Mmmmhhhh yhessss... 😏☕️

[@nemoexnuqual3643]

When you hear something correct, that you agree with it is just good sense. We connect together all of the Bible not just individual verses and that is the way it is.

[@VndNvwYvvSvv]

@@Scoma19 it's like Calvin's own ideas vs 5 point "TULIP" formalize after his death.

[@nicholascompton976]

I am currently moving from nondenom to Lutheranism and I think you described it well as the appeal to returning to tradition.

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Awesome.

[@davidbeilstein3977]

Me too. Dr. Cooper does a great job explaining complex theological issues in a winsome and understandable manner.

[@Franjipane-lh8ni]

@@DrJordanBCooper What is "awesome" about receiving fake Eucharist from a Lutheran Minister? Catholic and Orthodox Priests give out authentic Eucharist.

[@Franjipane-lh8ni]

@@DrJordanBCooper 33 A.D. Jesus Christ instructs "eat my flesh and drink my blood". In the 1500's Martin Luther became the first person ever to interprets this as "eat bread and drink wine and eat my flesh and drink my blood". Luther also rejected the Gift of the Holy Spirit/Sacred Power/Apostolic Succession essential to confect the Eucharist in the first place. Lutheran Ministers give out fake Eucharist.

[@Franjipane-lh8ni]

@@DrJordanBCooper Jesus Christ instructed "eat my flesh and drink my blood", not 1500's Luther's unique interpretation of "eat bread and drink wine and eat my flesh and drink my blood". You have no Apostolic Succession to confect the Eucharist either thanks to following Luther's and not Jesus Christ's Eucharist instructions.

[@johnsheppard7175]

A 49 minute video on why I, a Lutheran, should be Lutheran? Sign me up.

[@chaz1357]

Rarely am I this early to a video. While I'm here, thank you! You helped me find my way to the Lutheran church!

[@davidstamburski9487]

Which Lutheran Church? There's like 4 or 5 different kinds...

[@chaz1357]

@davidstamburski9487 LCMS of course 😎

[@davidstamburski9487]

@@chaz1357 👍

[@NyghtingMan]

@@chaz1357wooo me too!

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Sweet.

[@theodosios2615]

I thank God every day for this channel. Dr. Cooper has been instrumental in leading me to the truth through authentic Lutheranism.

[@Franjipane-lh8ni]

Authentic Lutheranism has fake Eucharist. Authentic Catholicism and Orthodoxy has authentic Eucharist.

[@Think_about_it_dude]

Can you here it? “Echo, echo, echo, echo…”

[@Hainzbeans]

This video is so good I left the Lutheran church joined another tradition and left that tradition just so I can become Lutheran again.

[@michaelkiener4138]

This is the most underrated comment I have seen.

[@cwallace828]

I’ve been in process of discerning a call to pastoral ministry for the past two years, and being part of a Presbyterian (PCA) context is what has held me back more than anything. While I love my reformed brothers and sisters, I’ve found myself aligned far more with Lutheran thought, theology, and liturgy as a whole. As I begin to explore Master’s programs, I just ask for your prayers for my family and I. God Bless Dr. Cooper!

[@mr.joshua1791]

I bring this up to my board of elders as an evangelism mission. And I only get blank stares 🤦‍♂️. It will be up to the younger generation to bring them in and help them understand our rich traditional history. Well done Dr. Cooper. As always.

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Don't give up.

[@Franjipane-lh8ni]

What, the rich history of Lutheran Ministers handing out fake Eucharist. "eat my flesh and drink my blood" = "eat my flesh and drink my blood", not "eat bread and drink wine and eat my flesh and drink my blood".

[@N00TIE]

As someone who has been been Methodist then non-denom and now looking towards Lutheranism because of the nativity service that i went to with my grandmother this is a great video and is almost exactly why I am switching to Lutheranism.

[@doubtingthomas9117]

As a traditional Anglican who is strongly sympathetic towards confessional Lutheranism, I found this to be a good lecture as usual, Dr Cooper. 👍🏻

[@WizardOfTheDezert]

Fantastic presentation. I'm also a Lutheran convert out of the reformed Church. My journey was started by Dr. Coopers videos.

[@BarkotSentayehu]

You didn't convert 😂 you changed socks

[@WizardOfTheDezert]

@BarkotSentayehu I'm not sure I understand the joke.

[@LukeBowman08]

convert from non-denom to Lutheranism largely because of you and Scholastic Lutherans, and from there read the BOC and my fate was sealed.

[@noahtylerpritchett2682]

@LukeBowman08 stay safe. I'm reformed myself. But stay safe.

[@daric_]

​@@noahtylerpritchett2682Uh...what? 😂

[@ora_et_labora1095]

Basically the exact same story here brother! Glory to God

[@HoneyBadgerbtc]

What exactly is the point? One false church to another.

[@Thatoneguy-pu8ty]

Literally me

[@kieranwardale6212]

This channel helped on my journey to Lutheranism. I'm blessed to have found it!

[@DanielWilliams-d8r]

This channel and Dr. Cooper’s content played a huge role in my conversion from Catholicism to Lutheranism. Very thankful to see this video for others that are interested in the Lutheran tradition

[@NerdyCatholic2122]

Hey brother, no pressure to answer if you don't want to, but what was the reason(s) that led you away from Catholicism? And what about Lutheranism attracted you to it?

[@DanielWilliams-d8r]

The primary thing that opened the rabbit hole, per se, was the doctrine of Papal Infallibility. Additionally, while this is certainly not the case of all Catholics, some views on the Blessed Virgin Mary and saints in general seemed to blur the line of idolatry (if not crossing it all together). Indulgences and their usage with the doctrine of purgatory was another big thing for me. I appreciate you reaching out

[@Franjipane-lh8ni]

Lutheran Ministers cannot confect the Eucharist. Catholic and Orthodox Priests can confect the Eucharist. You turned you your back on receiving the Eucharist by converting to Lutheranism. Easy to go back!

[@NerdyCatholic2122]

@@DanielWilliams-d8r I'd like to have a cordial dialogue with you if that's ok? The misconception about Papal Infallibility is that a lot of protestants (not all) AND Catholics (not all) think "infallibility" means whatever the Pope says holds the same weight as doctrine and dogma, therefore it must be believed. This is simply not true. The Pope is infallible only when he speaks from the chair (ex cathedra), that is, when, 1.) in the exercise of his office as shepherd and teacher of all Christians, 2.) in virtue of his supreme apostolic authority, and 3.) he defines a doctrine concerning faith or morals to be held by the whole Church. An excellent book I recommend on this subject is "Magisterial Authority" by Fr. Chad Ripperger. It's a short read that very clearly explains papal authority and infallibility. I recommended it to Dr. Cooper on another video of his before and he expressed his thanks for the recommendation (respect to Dr. Cooper :P). When it comes to the Blessed Virgin Mary (thank you, btw, for appropriately addressing her as such) and the Saints, the issue here is the misunderstanding of "intercession". Asking the Saints for their intercession is not worship. There is no sacrifice offered to the Saints or the Blessed Virgin Mary when we ask for their prayers, just like there is not sacrifice offered if I ask for Dr. Cooper's intercessory prayers. We ask for their intercession on our behalf because we believe they are fully alive in Heaven and their prayers to God are far more efficacious than ours. The Catechism of the Counsel of Trent (St. Pius V edition (black cover),pg. 398, Objections Answered, para. 3) states "True, there is but one Mediator, Christ the Lord, through His blood, and who, having obtained eternal redemption, and having entered once into the holies, ceases not to intercede for us (Heb. 9:12; 7:25). But it by no means follows that it is therefore unlawful to have recourse to the intercession of the Saints. If, because we have one Mediator Jesus Christ, it were unlawful to ask the intercession of the Saints, the Apostle would never have recommended himself with so much earnestness to the prayers of his brethren on earth (Rom. 15:30; Heb. 13:18). For by prayers of the living would lessen the glory and dignity of Christ's Mediatorship not less than the intercession of the Saints in Heaven." St. Clement of Alexandria wrote around the year A.D. 207, quote: " In this way is [the true Christian] always pure for prayer. He also prays in the society of angels, as being already of angelic rank, and he is never out of their holy keeping; and though he pray alone, he has the choir of the saints standing with him [in prayer] ([The Church Fathers Know Best by Jimmy Akin] Miscellanies 7:12, circa A.D. 207). Secondly, in my opinion, there are many Catholics who do not fully understand the intercession of the Saints or why we ask for their intercession, amongst many other Catholic teaching, unfortunately. This is due to poor Catechesis in recent decades. Regarding indulgences, it is true there were a few Bishops who, imprudently and wrongfully, sold indulgences to raise money for the renovating of St. Peter's Basilica (and also for their own gain) during Martin Luther's time. But the actions of a few imprudent Church leaders do not in any way dis-prove the Catholic Churches teaching on indulgences and its uses. The Catholic Church teaches "An indulgence is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church which, as the minister of redemption, dispenses and applies with authority the treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints" (CCC, para. 1471). To gain an indulgence, one must be in a state of grace and perform pious acts of faith and prayers (varies depending on the indulgence and its type). Jesus's sacrifice on the cross paid for our eternal punishment and consequences of our sins, but we (human beings) still have free will and can/do fall into sin. Those sins still have consequences when we don't keep His commandments but when we confess those sins and do penance, the temporal consequences of those sins remain on our souls. Scripture tells us "nothing unclean will enter into heaven", so these temporal consequences are like stains from our sins. The sin has been forgiven, but we are stain and in need of purification, or purgation, before entering Heaven. Indulgences gained are then offered to the souls in Purgatory for the shortening of their purification. We do not by our own power apply these indulgences to those in purgatory, instead we offer them to God to be applied to those in purgatory according to His Will. To avoid any confusion, indulgences do not replace the need for the Sacrament of Penance either. Brother my apologies for this being length but it's a lengthy topic. Hopefully youtube doesn't take this down. I hope this paints a clearer picture and eliminate some misunderstandings. Please consider regarding the Catechism of the Catholic Church in reference to these topics and Church teaching in general. Also read the early church fathers. May the Holy Spirit guide you into the fullness of His truth, Brother.

[@NerdyCatholic2122]

@@DanielWilliams-d8r I'd like to have a cordial dialogue with you if that's ok? The misconception about Papal Infallibility is that a lot of protestants (not all) AND Catholics (not all) think "infallibility" means whatever the Pope says holds the same weight as doctrine and dogma, therefore it must be believed. This is simply not true. The Pope is infallible only when he speaks from the chair (ex cathedra), that is, when, 1.) in the exercise of his office as shepherd and teacher of all Christians, 2.) in virtue of his supreme apostolic authority, and 3.) he defines a doctrine concerning faith or morals to be held by the whole Church. An excellent book I recommend on this subject is "Magisterial Authority" by Fr. Chad Ripperger. It's a short read that very clearly explains papal authority and infallibility. I recommended it to Dr. Cooper on another video of his before and he expressed his thanks for the recommendation (respect to Dr. Cooper :P). When it comes to the Blessed Virgin Mary (thank you, btw, for appropriately addressing her as such) and the Saints, the issue here is the misunderstanding of "intercession". Asking the Saints for their intercession is not worship. There is no sacrifice offered to the Saints or the Blessed Virgin Mary when we ask for their prayers, just like there is not sacrifice offered if I ask for Dr. Cooper's intercessory prayers. We ask for their intercession on our behalf because we believe they are fully alive in Heaven and their prayers to God are far more efficacious than ours. The Catechism of the Counsel of Trent (St. Pius V edi tion (bla ck cover),pg. 3 98, Objec tions Answered, p ara. 3) states "True, there is but one Mediator, Christ the Lord, through His blood, and who, having obtained eternal redemption, and having entered once into the holies, ceases not to intercede for us (Heb. 9:12; 7:25). But it by no means follows that it is therefore unlawful to have recourse to the intercession of the Saints. If, because we have one Mediator Jesus Christ, it were unlawful to ask the intercession of the Saints, the Apostle would never have recommended himself with so much earnestness to the prayers of his brethren on earth (Rom. 15:30; Heb. 13:18). For by prayers of the living would lessen the glory and dignity of Christ's Mediatorship not less than the intercession of the Saints in Heaven." St. Clement of Alexandria wrote around the year A.D. 207, quote: " In this way is [the true Christian] always pure for prayer. He also prays in the society of angels, as being already of angelic rank, and he is never out of their holy keeping; and though he pray alone, he has the choir of the saints standing with him [in prayer] ( Misc ellanies 7:12, cir ca A.D. 207). Secondly, in my opinion, there are many Catholics who do not fully understand the intercession of the Saints or why we ask for their intercession, amongst many other Catholic teaching, unfortunately. This is due to poor Catechesis in recent decades. Regarding indulgences, it is true there were a few Bishops who, imprudently and wrongfully, sold indulgences to raise money for the renovating of St. Peter's Basilica (and also for their own gain) during Martin Luther's time. But the actions of a few imprudent Church leaders do not in any way dis-prove the Catholic Churches teaching on indulgences and its uses. The Catholic Church teaches "An indulgence is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven, which the faithful Christian who is duly disposed gains under certain prescribed conditions through the action of the Church which, as the minister of redemption, dispenses and applies with authority the treasury of the satisfactions of Christ and the saints" (C C C, par a. 14 71). To gain an indulgence, one must be in a state of grace and perform pious acts of faith and prayers (varies depending on the indulgence and its type). Jesus's sacrifice on the cross paid for our eternal punishment and consequences of our sins, but we (human beings) still have free will and can/do fall into sin. Those sins still have consequences when we don't keep His commandments but when we confess those sins and do penance, the temporal consequences of those sins remain on our souls. Scripture tells us "nothing unclean will enter into heaven", so these temporal consequences are like stains from our sins. The sin has been forgiven, but we are stain and in need of purification, or purgation, before entering Heaven. Indulgences gained are then offered to the souls in Purgatory for the shortening of their purification. We do not by our own power apply these indulgences to those in purgatory, instead we offer them to God to be applied to those in purgatory according to His Will. To avoid any confusion, indulgences do not replace the need for the Sacrament of Penance either. Brother my apologies for this being length but it's a lenghy topic. Hopefully youtube doesn't take this down. I hope this paints a clearer picture and eliminate some misunderstandings. Please consider regarding the Catechism of the Catholic Church in reference to these topics and Church teaching in general. Also read the early church fathers. May the Holy Spirit guide you into the fullness of His truth, Brother.

[@rev.jesseabelchristianlife6693]

Former Presbyterian converting to Lutheran because of the Eucharist and other theological issues.

[@lc-mschristian5717]

I too left calvinism for Lutheranism. Scripture alone.

[@timfinn8402]

You turned only half way. One of my reasons to join catholic church was exactly the messy lutheran teaching about the eucharist and the disrespectful treatment of it. I have seen blood of christ dripping to ground and poured to sink in my lutheran church.

[@jmh7977]

@rev.jesseabelchristianlife6693 Welcome, brother. Pay little mind to the legion of online Papist detractors. Having myself attended Roman mass much of my early childhood, I have indeed seen the Priest treat the Eucharist poorly and with banality. And in both cases, it is a true shame. In every church, you will encounter sinners, and if not, there would be no point, as church is a house of healing and only the sick are in need of treatment. Hold fast, above all things, to the Gospel, and thereby, you hold fast to the Lutheran Confessions.

[@IOwnedCamo]

Taking my membership class in two weeks at an LCMS church near me. Excited to be a part of the true historic church

[@davidstamburski9487]

Since the LCMS claims to be biblical show me a text of scripture where the church was ever called Lutheran. If you can't then it's time to get rid of the man-made name. Think about it.

[@IOwnedCamo]

@ the name was given to us by Catholics. I identify as an evangelical Catholic Christian

[@davidstamburski9487]

@@IOwnedCamo oh come on my friend, what is the name on the building or Sign ? It's called Lutheran correct? Not found in your Bible.

[@NyghtingMan]

@@davidstamburski9487what a silly argument. Christian is also not in the Bible. It was a derogatory name meaning little Christ but you probably still call yourself Christian.

[@hunterbailey7761]

Read the doctrine. Stop.... criticizing the name and just research 😂​@@davidstamburski9487

[@redeemedzoomer6053]

Lutherans have LCMS. But for Presbyterians and Anglicans, their traditional versions cannot and will not be revived without a retaking of the PCUSA and the Episcopal Church

[@joseeugeniojr]

Praying from Brazil for the Reconquista!

[@couriersix7326]

ACNA seems pretty strong and liturgical.

[@dannymichel7842]

The ACNA is a thing

[@Sebman1113]

The LCMS was never the mainstream of American Lutheranism though

[@2Nickcdj]

The ARP is cruising along nicely

[@LewisCho]

Baptist here, but happy to be early to a video and looking forward to watching it.

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Thanks for watching!

[@VndNvwYvvSvv]

Howdy. I have to say there's more misconceptions about Lutherans than most other denominations. Be sure to check out Ready To Harvest, but this guy is also good at explaining what they mean in their own words, For examples, that baptism can be salvific because the Bible literally says so, but it's not a work of anyone but God as a free gift we accept, and faith alone in this is what saves. Everyone else seems to say "they say a work saves!" Lol. Kinda silly to think that the original "faith alone" would teach that, but people talk.

[@LewisCho]

@VndNvwYvvSvv I appreciate the concern. I do watch Ready to Harvest as well. I try my best to be fair and ecumenical, but I know how people can be misinformed.

[@LeonLKC]

Martin Lutheran has opened the eyes of the world by revealing the revelation of the mystery i.e. 'O God our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come' Alleluia!

[@Nasher06]

As a Baptist I feel like magisterial Protestantism overall not just Lutheranism can answer a lot of questions Christians have in Low-Church traditions like mine. Especially in terms of how to interpret the scriptures in conjunction with the Church Fathers and questions about liturgy.

[@davidw.5185]

In my opinion, a major foundational mistake "Lutherans" make is not using our proper name, the very name Luther recommend--evangelical catholic. The pietists among us forget that we are catholic or worse, deny it. When we embrace Rome's name for us, we lose what we are and the Papacy wins and what Luther and the early reformers stood for. A name is everything and we continuously lose our identity to Rome and Arminianism. We are the evangelical catholic faith...

[@jacobjuly6010]

Agreed. Also acceptable, imo, (although not as preferred) would be "Reformed Catholic". I realize these labels can be confusing for some, but that's not a good enough reason not to use them. A simple and brief explanation isn't really that difficult. At least not to me. And who knows? If enough of us adopt this mindset, maybe someday we won't have to explain any longer. That's how language tends to work.

[@zacharyahearn4069]

Ya if you see evangelical catholic on a sign you aren’t going to think it is Lutheran though. And the Catholic Church is pretty universal in history and location. Too late now.

[@mroxannevh]

Yeah in our wels church they've changed the creed to say one apostolic and Christian church 😂

[@VndNvwYvvSvv]

@@davidw.5185 unfortunately people would confuse that with the capital C Catholic church, not the "church catholic". I think using that term these days would be a huge mistake and drive away most people who are already looking to distance themselves from Roman papists

[@toadster_strudel]

I definitely remember the Emergent church, and yes, it was very short-lived. A lot of them were basically practical atheists. You're absolutely spot on with Evangelicals. I was in that camp at one time. I've found that the most hostile people toward Christianity are former Evangelicals. Like you said, they are not rooted in anything. It's almost all focused on the experience, and when that's gone, they harden their hearts to God.

[@jtbasener1810]

I most definitely can understand the disenchantment with evangelicalism. I want to be careful that I am not just hitting an easy target, but I do feel, as a college student who has been raised up non-denominational, that I am hungering for so much more than the broad evangelical tradition has given. It is my hope to find a more historic Protestant Denomination to join as I really cannot think of anything else to satiate my thirst. Blessings, dear friend!

[@Nate_Higgins]

Very informative. I'm an Anglican, and you are correct on saying we have a wider collection of beliefs on the things many of us would consider nonessential beliefs. I would consider myself Anglo-Catholic, but I definitely go to church with those who are more reformed in their beliefs. We do all recite the creeds and share the Holy Eucharist and the Book of Common Prayer. It's a wonderful tradition in my opinion. I feel like I'd feel at home in a high church Lutheran service. I also like the idea of mystery. I think the Eastern church is big on that, but i fit well in the Anglican communion while holding that idea.

[@yeayeayea9353]

Thanks for this Mr. Cooper. I became a member of the LCMS last year and your videos have been a great resource.

[@prussianhill]

Another good lecture to listen to as I weigh train. I'm a layman, but as a convert to Confessional Lutheranism and with my background as a litigator I have a compulsion to want to better articulate and defend my faith.

[@daric_]

Excellent. Yes, as a former Reformed, they do obviously believe in Christ, but the primary reason for everything God does is for his glory, and so that should be our primary goal. So they may complain about that statement, but if they want to be honest with themselves, they need to check what the first question of the Westminster Catechism says about the "chief end of man." It's right there.

[@stevefreytag]

Thank you Dr. Cooper. I wish there were more Lutheran churches around. Are there any plans for Lutheran church planting on the East coast? Pennsylvania, ect? I think there probably is quite a good demand for solid Lutheran churches. I think some of the reformed churches are getting burned out theologically and unless you go out mid west usa their aren't a lot of Lutheran churches to attend around here.

[@sarahh8575]

Go to the nearest one and build it up, make your community, might take time and patience but there’s others like you thinking the same thing

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Where in PA are you? Unfortunately, central and Eastern PA are basically devoid of Confessional Lutheran churches. It's really unfortunate because that area was full of them at one time. A lot of the best American theologians were in Philly or Gettysburg.

[@TheTidyNest]

There are a ton of Lutheran churches here in Northern Minnesota, but most that have other young families are ECLA. The few Missouri synod options we have, everyone is 80 years old.

[@stevefreytag]

​I'm in the South west suburbs of Philadelphia. There is a small LCMS nearby that I have been to once. Culturally, it's not a great fit. My wife is Chinese so we currently go to a Chinese church. However It's becoming very reformed mainly because of the Westminster influence but it's becoming more and more of an issue for me theologically. I feel like I have basically converted to Lutheranism with no church to attend. I like the Chinese church but not sure if it's enough for my family especially in raising my young 8 year old daughter. I want her to be catechized in the faith as best I can.

[@z_nytrom99]

Your breakdown of evangelicalism is excellent and matches my experience with it to a tee.

[@MC-dn4qs]

Hey Dr. Cooper, love the stuff. Out of curiosity, where would you say are the areas open to theological “discovery” or development?

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Theological anthropology. Our current age faces so many challenges about what human nature is that simply were not addresses by the reformers or 17th century orthodox.

[@MC-dn4qs]

@@DrJordanBCooper Thanks for taking the time to answer! Keep up the good work!

[@hunterbailey7761]

I came from a southern Pentecostal evangelical church. Met a LCMS Chaplain in the military anf ive been part of the lcms for almost 5 years. The journey has been amazing, and i love your content. Your commentary in free will and historical contexts have been amazing. I try conversations with people from home, and it gets crazy lol.

[@jmh7977]

The Church will prevail, Jesus Christ Himself proclaims it. We either believe His words or we don't. As a Confessional Lutheran, I may rest assured that we will be just fine. If it's only a numbers game, it's both an entirely godless game to play as well as fallacious at best, because wide is the road to hell, narrow the way to heaven. We will prevail, because our God has promised it. End of story. The Word of the Lord endures forever.

[@HDwedge012]

Thank you Dr. Cooper!

[@connorjack-232]

I am in the process of looking in to all denominations of the church and I fell that God is pulling me into being Lutheran

[@WeakestAvenger]

I grew up non-denominational, and I have been dissatisfied for a long time. I had a crisis two years ago that was a catalyst for a lot of searching and being pretty done with non-denominationalism. My interest has been primarily in Eastern Orthodox and even in Roman Catholicism, though there are still some issues that I'm not sure I can get over. My wife is also dead-set against both of those. So we have been to an LCMS church close to us and will soon begin attending a class on the fundamentals of the faith from the Lutheran perspective. But there are still things from the "ecclesialists" that draw me. So I still feel pretty stuck in the middle, and it is hard to be hopeful that I will ever be confident in any particular decision.

[@DrJordanBCooper]

What are the issues you are still wrestling with?

[@Franjipane-lh8ni]

Try re-reading the Bread of Life Discourse, only 5 paragraphs, where Jesus Christ gave infallibly correct instructions on what substance the Eucharist is. a) bread and wine and Jesus' flesh and blood (Lutheran) b) Jesus' flesh and blood (Catholic and Orthodox).

[@WeakestAvenger]

@@DrJordanBCooper Well, of course, I can't be exhaustive in a KZbin comment. But regarding Orthodoxy and Catholicism, I find the language used of Mary troublesome, especially in Orthodoxy. They can say it is hyperbole and poetic all they like, but when they use the kind of language that seemingly should be reserved for God alone (such as "Only All-Praised One"), I don't see how I could say those things with a clear conscience. I am open to the intercession of the saints, but at this point I think they go too far. There are also the anathemas. Of course, many today would nuance those by saying they are warnings and only applied in specific cases, not just a blanket curse on everyone who happens to believe something. But it sure doesn't seem that that was the intention of the earlier councils and declarations. I would find it very difficult to anathematize so many baptized believers I have known in my life who trust in Christ - the divine and incarnate Son of God - and his self-sacrifice for their salvation and seek to obey them with their whole lives. I kind of go back and forth on icon veneration. On the other side, I do take seriously the claims by Catholics and Orthodox concerning apostolic succession and schism. One of the reasons I am discontent with my current church is that I am seeking a solid sense of spiritual authority. My non-denom was started by a group of people who "wanted to do church differently" and apparently just appointed some of themselves elders and started a new church. But when I was feeling condemned by the Scriptures and was seeking hope, I found that in the teachings of an Orthodox priest on the Scriptures, because his teaching had the sense of "this is what the Church teaches" rather than "I did my research and this is what I think these passages mean." Even my views on the atonement have been shifting. Growing up with penal substitution as basically the whole thing and salvation being a punctiliar thing, I have somewhat reluctantly come to see PSA as not the primary imagery in Scripture. Passages like Leviticus 16 (esp. v 30), Hebrews 9-10, and 1 John 1:7, 9 are examples of the descriptions of the atonement, and especially the vocabulary of atonement itself, being primarily expiatory. I think this achieves propitiation, in that there is no longer any sin for God's wrath to be directed toward, but it seems that that depends on the expiation of sin rather than punishment. Related to that, I appreciate your videos on theosis in the Lutheran tradition. Probably what I struggle with the most is just the thought, "What if they are right? What if they truly are the full continuation of Christ's Church and I reject them?" (See Lk 10:16.) I have always struggled with decision-making, and at the level of eternal ramifications, I feel trapped. Especially because it isn't just about me but about my family, too. I am responsible for raising up my kids in the faith. Thanks for asking.

[@doubtingthomas9117]

@@WeakestAvenger I hear you. I’m a former Southern Baptist who seriously explored Eastern Orthodoxy about 20 years ago (after considering the claims of Rome, but finding the biblical and historical evidence for papalism lacking). I ultimately couldn’t swim the Bosphorus for some of the same issues you mentioned. I thereafter landed in Anglicanism.

[@Jo0zek20]

I am a classical, historical, doctrineless, home church-goer from Poland. My wife is Lutheran. I have been gravitating toward Lutheranism for some time now.

[@danielmanta]

Dr. Jordan, the talk was not about being Lutheran but why you are not reformed. As per title, i have waited for the answer to being Lutheran until the end but without receiving an answer.

[@titus3_1-7]

Greetings neighbor, If you are in a strait as to whether or not you should be a Lutheran, consider what the scriptures say about those who are disciples of Christ: *Acts 11:26 (KJV)* And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch. The disciples were called Christians. Not Lutherans, not Pentecostals, not Catholics, not Mormons, not 7th Day Adventists, nor any other name currently ascribed to many denominations. They were called Christians, they are still called Christians, and will continue to be called Christians till the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. A testimony from a former Lutheran on why he became a Christian: kzbin.info/www/bejne/moPSYXqwqqaCb8ksi=BFA4XtVvR8frkv3i

[@tomo5136]

​@@titus3_1-7Lutherans are Christians

[@michaellowe2305]

This is extremely accurate to my own path. Need to find a Lutheran church nearby

[@paulpresleyjr9600]

Jordan I was in the nazerene church and Independence Baptist church as a kid but walked away by age 17 and became agnostic.Came Back at age 36 into a charasmatic/hebrew roots church then a word of faith church.Then walked away again and became a Unitarian/Deist.I came back again a a year ago and I see myself very attracted to either Conservative Lutheran or Reformed Baptist.There are tons of Baptist churches around me in The Florida panhandle.There isn't one Lutheran church within 30 miles of where I live.Im really leaning Lutheran from watching guys like you and Chris Roseborough.What would you suggest? Love your channel youngman. I'm 54

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Hmm... I'm not too familiar with the area, though the south in general doesn't have a huge Lutheran presence. Have you looked at all Confessional Lutheran church bodies to be sure?

[@tamianderson3977]

We live in the panhandle as well. We attend Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Panama City. It's a 1.5 hr drive but we love our church and our pastor. Where are you in the panhandle? Immanuel Lutheran Church is in Pensacola. area

[@paulpresleyjr9600]

I'm in Defuniak Springs/ Walton county

[@tamianderson3977]

@@paulpresleyjr9600I am in Holmes County. Come join us in Panama City at Good Shepherd Lutheran.

[@paulpresleyjr9600]

Thanks but no wheels

[@TheodenEdnewDoesDnD]

Outstanding talk

[@rev.jesseabelchristianlife6693]

Doctor Jordan, Reverend, you are a treasury of grace and understanding in Christ, I am deeply thankful for your life's work!!!

[@BiblicalStudiesandReviews]

I really enjoyed this lecture-up until about the 26-minute mark. When Dr. Cooper mentions the cult of personality surrounding John MacArthur, it struck me as odd, considering that he himself is part of the Lutheran church, which is literally named after Martin Luther. Still a solid lecture. Good job with the diagnosis. I’m just not sure Lutheranism is the cure.

[@ConvincedofChristianity]

Great explanation as always, Dr. Cooper!

[@theologicalwebb]

Just a footnote clarification. So the SBC did not reject the Nicene Creed. It was a matter of order where a messenger cannot add an amendment to the Baptist faith and message from the general floor. Other motions regarding it have been submitted through proper channels for the change.

[@toddvoss52]

True. But we are watching and waiting. It’s been about six months. How long does it take to adopt a fundamental creed?

[@theologicalwebb]

@@toddvoss52 I agree with your thought. Wasn't trying to argue. I was just clarifying.

[@theologicalwebb]

@@toddvoss52 Also the convention is yearly.

[@toddvoss52]

@@theologicalwebb sure. I shouldn’t have put it so snarkily. But one would think they could move before the next convention although I take your point. As a prudential matter they wouldn’t want to do it outside of the general convention . If they don’t adopt it at the next convention I will be disappointed. I was really rooting for them to adopt it . Especially for the younger folks who want a return to tradition . If they don’t do it , I think some of them will have to take a hard look.

[@theologicalwebb]

@toddvoss52 I'm with you. I pray it is adopted as well. Sometimes changes like that take a while even if there is mass agreement. If it is not adopted next year hopefully then hopefully it will be brought to vote the following year. Not as fast as I would like but that's the way things usually go.

[@joshuablessed7782]

I was non denominational but after studying church history I was forced to discern between roman catholicism classic protestantism and orthodoxy and I’m now an orthodox catechumen. I wanted to visit a lutheran church but I ran into a liberal one with a woman pastor.. why should I have to discern between confessional lutherans and liberal lutherans ? I just think it shouldn’t be that hard. The church fathers like St Irenaeus make it clear we need apostolic succession as a marker of finding a true church most lutherans don’t see the importance of it also monastics which goes back to early christianity is something Luther abolished.. Luther married a nun as a former monk and helped many monks leave the monastery. I definitely think Luther meant well but he caused a lot of damage but despite of that I have a deeper level of respect for classic protestantism. I love the eastern tradition but at times I long for the western tradition as well orthodoxy is working on being more balanced as there are western rite churches now

[@WeakestAvenger]

I am in that position of growing up non-denom but now discerning between those same three options. I have been drawn toward Orthodoxy, but my wife is very set against it. We have recently been attending a Lutheran church, but I don't know where we will end up. Apostolic succession is one of the marks in favor of Orthodoxy and Catholicism.

[@danielhixon8209]

I’ve seen a lot of these trends as well. I graduated high school in 2000 a “generic evangelical”. When I was in college some of my friends (mostly Baptists) got into Calvinism. I read Christianity Today back then; don’t now. I went the other way toward Wesley, the Book of Common Prayer, and more historically rooted churches. When I was in seminary (2004-07) the Emergent Church was all the rage. As something of an “Evangelical on the Canterbury trail” myself, I can certainly Understand the allure of Rome and the East, but I’m a Protestant by conviction: the Reformers were just plain right about the Bible, the “solas” and major needs for Reform. I completely agree the way to renewal and greater impact is the “conservative reformation” or “reformed catholicity.” You are also right that Anglicanism has not enforced - and in some places outright ignored - our 39 Articles of Religion - in the Anglican Church of North America and related conservative bodies, there has been a renewed focus on the Articles as key to our theological identity, and I hope that their practical importance and authority will continue to gain prominence. The ACNA did also produce a catechism called “To Be a Christian” which has gained some practical authority and use even beyond the borders of our Province. So, among orthodox Anglicans, who represent both the majority and the future of Anglicanism, there is a growing sense of the necessity of doctrinal agreement on the most important matters. Really appreciate what you are doing.

[@pierregiraud6832]

Lutheranism is merely a tendency of the Confessing, or Protestant, Church (pro = in favor of/testari = to bear witness to). For, in the final analysis, it only appeared with the Book of Concord, in 1580. By contrast, the confessing precision of the Catholic Faith was established at the Wittenberg Concord of 1536, because all the legitimate “bishops” countersigned it: Bl. Luther, Calvin (1538/Strasbourg), Bucer and Melanchthon. In this respect, the unaltered Augsburg Confession (1530) has been recognized as an adequate clarification of the baptismal article of the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed (381), alongside the first six Ecumenical Councils (325-681), which are concerned with Trinitarian and Christological matters.

[@jamesemmons3786]

Genuine question, I see many many people leaving high church Protestantism and becoming either Catholic or Orthodox. Only once did I see it go the other direction. (Non practicing Catholic became Anglican) I hear a lot of evangelicals/pentecostals becoming High church Protestant. Why do you think this is? Or are my anecdotes outside of the norm?

[@jangozerg]

🤔47:13 Westminster shorter capacity q&a 1: Q. what is the chief end of man? A. To glorify God and enjoy Him forever.

[@nemochuggles]

Praise God ❤

[@theology_guy]

Jesus is Lord

[@AlphaOmega888]

Really. Is Jesus your *personal Lord* or *the Lord* over Lords King over Kings? But let me guess you don't believe in Kings and monarchies which Jesus came to establish - the Kingdom of God here on earth. (what you think has been going on the past 2000 years? Oh only America in the past 100 years of history matters and the 40k religions it created. Makes sense.

[@Swiftninjatrev]

LOL

[@theology_guy]

@@AlphaOmega888 i don't understand your point bro

[@VengeanceAfter]

I came back to Lutheranism. Glory be to God

[@dylanwagoner9768]

I don’t think the “reformed question” is central as set up against Lutheranism especially as you articulate it. At least I haven’t seen that in my reading

[@robbchristopher158]

I'm thinking about becoming Lutheran because I don't have adequate transportation to the Anglican churches that are 8 to 11 mi away from where I live. The Episcopal Church that I attend sometimes it's just too moderate for me.

[@backyard_pitmaster2893]

I don’t think New Atheism died, it just stopped being a movement. I know, and have known many atheists that believe that kind of atheism (especially when it comes to Hitchens and Dawkins).

[@Unknown-pi5ll]

Can you please make a video explaining why Martin Luther’s excommunication is not a valid excommunication ?.

[@elwoodgroves7848]

The acronym TULIP has become a handy place to start any examination of "Calvinism"; however, it must be remembered that this was originally five points of disagreement used for debate by the Arminians during the Synod of Dort (1618-19). John Calvin was an important Protestant Reformer in Geneva from 1536-1564, so there was a lot about Calvin & "Calvinism" that pre-dated the Synod of Dort and the TULIP acronym.

[@Bible_Loving_Lutheran]

I wouldn’t call Calvin a reformer. He was a former. What was being reformed? Catholicism. Calvinist aren’t really Catholic so if anything reformed reformed. I’d give you reformed Protestant I suppose as long as we could be understood as Evangelical Catholic.

[@pedroguimaraes6094]

And the acronym TULIP was created much recently to summarize the Canons of Dort. You will not find TULIP there too.

[@pedroguimaraes6094]

​@@Bible_Loving_Lutheran Although Calvin was not a former Catholic priest, important reformers of our tradition, such as Vermigli, Bullinger, Guillaume Farel, Ursinus, and John Knox, were. They all agreed with Calvin’s theology, and Calvin was later ordained for ministry by someone with a Catholic background, so he had a valid ministerial ordenation.

[@elwoodgroves7848]

@@pedroguimaraes6094 Yes, thanks for the clarification. The five points of debate were formulated at Dort, but the acronym TULIP was first used in a lecture entitled "The Five Points of Calvinism" by Dr. Cleland Boyd McAfee in 1905.

[@iMav_]

@DrJordanBCooper, are you able to make these slides available??

[@strega_bonnie]

Dr. Cooper, what do you think a person should do if they're interested in being Lutheran but there isn't an acceptable Lutheran church in their area? Thanks

[@DrJordanBCooper]

How far is the closest Confessional Lutheran church?

[@z_nytrom99]

Please do a critique on hypothetical universalism

[@hgbitner8486]

How do you know you are saved according to Lutheranism?

[@EarlHildebrandt]

Looking forward to that presentation on Christian Nationalism.

[@87DAM1987]

That's cool. You graduated a year before my graduation class. Though I didn't graduate. That's cool

[@matthewj0429]

I loved this lecture! I left Reformed theology and became Anglican because of the reasons mentioned in this lecture. When Dr Jordan Cooper said that Anglicanism is too doctrinally loose I said out loud "Those are fighten words Dr Cooper" 😂

[@doubtingthomas9117]

As a fellow Anglican, I can’t really disagree with Dr Cooper about the doctrinal looseness within the Anglican Communion or among those who otherwise identify themselves as “Anglican”.

[@matthewj0429]

@doubtingthomas9117 I agree I just don't see it as a bad thing. Theological liberalism is obviously not ok but anything else that falls within the BCP, book of Homiles or 49 articles is ok to believe in. I think I like this looseness of doctrine because of the context I came from which was Reformed. Everything was so tight and people weren't allowed to believe different doctrines without being put under suspicion

[@couriersix7326]

@@matthewj0429 How can you be a unified Church without doctrinal standards?

[@matthewj0429]

@couriersix7326 Anglicanism has doctrinal standards they just aren't as strict as the Reformed, Lutherans or Romanist. For example we have the Book of Common Prayer, The Book of Homiles (33 sermons on different subjects) and the 39 articles.). Another base line is the Chicago Quadrilateral which states for a church to be in fellowship it must subscribe to 4 things. The Holy Scriptures, as containing all things necessary to salvation; The creeds (specifically, the Apostles' and Nicene Creeds), as the sufficient statement of Christian faith; The dominical sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion; The historic episcopate, locally adapted. So there is an Anglican backbone to doctrine its just not as specific. I think this the most intellectual tight case for catholic doctrine. The doctrines that Anglicans hold to for unity can be proved from scripture and the Fathers. Young Anglican just put out an excellent video making this exact point. Also long live the New California Republic

[@couriersix7326]

@@matthewj0429 Thank you for the explanation. So is belief in the real presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper an essential belief to be considered Anglican? I've seen posts from Episcopalians/Anglican arguing that the 39 Articles were never intended to be binding, is this true?

[@TimothyMiller-yv5mg]

Upon moving to a community with an LCMS church I chose to join because of the Eucharist. But I was a believer from my youth. I've never heard a Lutheran explain how a pagan on the street gets baptized without evangelism. Without the Methodists and their descendants hundreds of thousands of people would have gone to Hell because the Lutherans were keeping to themselves.

[@jacobjuly6010]

@DrJordanBCooper Hey, who gave you permission to put on full display my personal journey from Evangelicalism to the Emergent Church to New Calvinism to not attending at all for years and flirting with theological liberalism, and (thankfully) finally landing within the Evangelical Catholic tradition? Lol But seriously, very nice summary. I'll definitely be saving this video in the hopes of eventually sharing it with family members who are still stuck in Evangelicalism. Please pray that it is received well.

[@kjhg323]

If I almost completely agree with the Lutheran Confessions, with the only exception being that I've become convinced of Augustine's view of justification (infusion of righteousness sola gratia rather than imputation of righteousness), should I continue attending my LCMS church? And no, I'm never becoming Roman Catholic, but should I join a church with less strict doctrinal standards like an Anglican church?

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Continue attending your LCMS church.

[@Franjipane-lh8ni]

The Catholic and Orthodox Church have the Eucharist. Lutheran Ministers don't know what substance the Eucharist is and are devoid of the Apostolic Succession/Sacred Power essential to confect the Eucharist in the first place.

[@FKLinguista]

No offense, Pastor, but do you have a higher resolution video or your PowerPoint at least? We cannot even read the text on it in 360p.

[@zachm.6572]

I’m a PNCC member, which is a church that sympathizes with Luther, but thinks he went too far in “de-emphasizing” the episcopal ministry. I have read Piepkorn’s treatment of presbyterial succession, but it doesn’t seem right to build a succession upon something so exceptional.

[@ora_et_labora1095]

New Jordan Cooper vid!!

[@KennyBare]

With respect Dr. Cooper, I don’t think you’ve substantiated an exodus from evangelicalism. I say this as a Lutheran. Some scholars like Elle Hardy say that charismatic Christianity is converting about 35 thousand people every day. In Latin America, evangelicals are flipping the demographics. Guatemala and Brazil are becoming majority Protestant and this is driven by the low church variety. In America, the historic churches are dying but the rock and roll churches are filling stadiums. I would like some data to substantiate if evangelicalism is really seeing an exodus.

[@mroxannevh]

Maybe those places are just 60 years behind on the trend

[@elchinito4247]

Where are the conservative Lutheran churches in NYC?

[@michaelkiener4138]

Google lcms churches near me or you can use the lcms church locator

[@jjmulvihill]

Lutheran’s are one of the most sensible Protestant Churches. If they would continue to Sola Escritura, Bible Only, and grow from Luther and continue the reformation to the New Testament Church, it would be perfect.

[@Bible_Loving_Lutheran]

What exactly would one classify a New Testament church as denominational wise?

[@bbharat307]

Dr.Jordan Cooper, may i please know what is the position of Confessional Lutheranism on the 3rd commandment, the Sabbath. Is it right for a person to study or do business after the Church service. Or a stricter Sabbath of only rest. Does Confessional Luthernaism draw any general or holistic line on this point. Thank you.

[@Swiftninjatrev]

4* You can read the Augsburg confession

[@DrJordanBCooper]

There's a bit of debate on this actually. Lutherans are not strict sabbatarians, but two views on how the third commandment relates today. It would be worth a video.

[@michaelkiener4138]

​@@DrJordanBCooper LCMS elder here, this would be a good video, and to hit on whether intentionally choosing to not attend church and thereby not recieve the Eucharist is a kind of curving in on one's self.

[@hgbitner8486]

Jordan, I know you were reformed and have spent much more time reading reformed doctrine and reformed books, but it just seems like you are grossly mischaracterizing the reformed camp. Reformed church can’t handle mystery? I almost laughed when you said that.

[@johngraham8257]

What about just being a believer in the word of God! And forget the labels.

[@jmh7977]

@@johngraham8257 Then we shall discard of "believer", "Christian", and any other descriptor befitting "one who follows Jesus Christ". Woops, we'll have to discard that too. That too is a mere label. Without descriptors, what are we and what does the world call us? You would reduce language itself to mere grunts and moans, and then there would be no preaching of the Gospel. In all sincerity and, yes, love, good sir, what you propose is both absurd and, in truth, impossible.

[@zacharyahearn4069]

That sir is the logical conclusion of the “reformation” that Luther thought he could avoid.

[@patrickhenry236]

Seek ye first The Kingdom of God, hear His words and KEEP THEM. If your concern is over what denomination or branch you are in, then you have missed the boat entirely. Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox... none of that matters. If you violate scripture and chase teachings of your own desires you are lost. The arguments of "I am of Paul" and "I am of Apollos" are as irrelevant and detrimental to faith today as they were two millenia ago.

[@pianomanny1397]

I came from an AG background which proved out to be more experiential than doctrinal. I have moved to the Reformed/Cessationist camp and see doctrine much more clearly. Like other denominations there are Lutheran sects that ordain and affirm both the LGBTQ and feminist agendas I.e. ordaining woman in pastoral roles. How dioes the line up with the traditional teaching of the Lutheran church?

[@traviswilson36]

Assemblies of God is vastly superior to Lutherans.

[@laurelin3422]

I just visited this church on epiphany. 😂

[@nelsonang]

wow… here in singapore, i returned to church in the mid-90s and was attending a local lutheran church… however it was lutheran only through inheritance and in liturgy… it was in reality through and through evangelical… indeed, worship service subsequently split into liturgical and contemporary to cater to the tastes of the older members and younger one who were otherwise leaving for the charismatics… i then found myself walking right into the new calvinists and discovering how unrooted my “lutheran” church is… but now realising how this movement is also limited… sadly, there is no true lutheran church in singapore…

[@LXX-Mercedes]

Sad😢

[@westerncentristrants525]

I go to both the Church of Christ and the Lutheran church.

[@AndrewKendall71]

But if you look at the changeability-or simply the differences-between expressions of churches as they spring up by missions or spontaneously by the hand of the Holy Spirit, you see difference. Are these differences-in music, in focus, in building, in service/mass-are these wrong for their differences, even if the gospel is central? Also, absolutely. Personal experience has taken over as a basis for too much of the outlook of Evangelicalism. But to say the expressions are unrooted is not true. The emphasis * is * on the far past, seeing much of the history of the church in the 2nd through 19th centuries to be impersonal, cold, unserious, and filled with accretive matters that detract from the "coming as a little child" that Jesus himself indicated. That motivation cannot be said to be bad. It's the throwing out of babies with the bathwater that has left meaningful holes causing some to leave "looking for stability or rootedness" or to deconstruct. Also, many of the examples are the fringes, the extreme. Perhaps these mark the possible implications of the nonsensical parts of the project. But it's not universal. Some have developed with orthodox theology and even a lot of rigor and increasing unity among denominations, and have grown with health. But despite my responses, some of those dreadful outcomes you've cited are certainly true and rampant.

[@HobbyHobby-d5u]

DR.Cooper, to what extenet do you agree with this : Selling Jesus - kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKm4q4Wil66moK8si=qss_s74ZiUvTlhwt

[@PastorJC]

If the Logos is the substance of all things, then why argue the means by which the Christ “comes” to the bread and wine? I think The Church has been arguing about the wrong thing for 1,000 years. The Epiclesis is not necessary and There is no magic in the Verbum. The Lord’s Supper is a Confession/Profession of Faith in The midst of a Memorial Rite. It is a declaration of Christ being the Logos and the efficacy of his sacrifice on the Cross. Certainly The Word was already present before the consecration- but when we perform the consecration, it “becomes” the Body of Christ in the beholding.

[@pappap1702]

DR. COOPER A question I have is on what authority does the Lutheran church deny Holy Communion/ Eucharist to born again believers who aren't members. They offer a blessing instead while denying the greater blessing of Eucharist? The question is for any Lutheran. This has been a concern for me as I'm considering converting but as I understand it is a process to become a Lutheran and i would be denied Communion all through that process. Help me make sense of 36:15 this practice someone.

[@couriersix7326]

Two reasons: 1. Receiving Holy Communion unworthily can lead to great harm to the recipient, so Lutheran Pastors want to be sure you are sufficiently instructed in the faith. 2. Lutherans believe the Lord's Supper to be a confession of faith, that you agree with what is being taught in that church. If you cannot do that you should not commune, as that would make you a liar.

[@pappap1702]

@couriersix7326 #1 I can understand but I can affirm that I'm born again and baptized. #2 isn't Scriptural as far as I can see. Holy Communion is as I see it and if I see it wrong it doesn't matter. It's either symbolic or real presence whether I think it is or isn't if it's a truth

[@lc-mschristian5717]

Thank you.

[@wijim1948]

You have summarized a large group of people into a category of "non-thinking, feely-feely, experiential Christians" and in doing so have done a disservice to them and to yourself. It is impossible to be a Christian unless you are an "experiential Christian". If you have not "tasted Christ" and discovered that He is good, you have not experienced being a Christian. I believe that Lutheran doctrine is well-thought-out and probably the best of all options (though far from perfect). But many Lutherans are high on intellectual prowess, but fall far short on walking in the Spirit.

[@georgwilliamfriedrichhegel5744]

Answer: because Jesus was.

[@zacharyahearn4069]

Ahh yes Jesus was a Lutheran. Didn’t know Jesus follow the teachings of Luther. 😂

[@hgbitner8486]

I don’t see how Lutheranism provides a solution for the problem you pose for Calvinism. How salvation works is the same. We are all saved by faith. We don’t know who the elect are, and we won’t until we get to heaven. Same thing with your belief, we won’t truly know who is saved until we get to heaven.

[@catholic_zoomer_bro]

10 minutes in and I haven't heard a single positive thing about Lutheranism, just hating on evangelicals. So far, not convincing at all

[@LXX-Mercedes]

👍

[@natecompton172]

Hey Dr Cooper, I was wondering if you would consider engaging with this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJjHZmWXdt6imLMsi=nZVOZgMzc7-Bp5DL (or one like it). I’ve noticed several videos on the subject and can’t help but think they’ve really misconstrued the whole Lutheran view of vocation.

[@DrJordanBCooper]

Yes, this would be worth doing. I've wanted to address this for a while, and this video could be a good jumping off point.

[@whittneybaldwin2267]

@@DrJordanBCooperthere are several videos that Brian Holdsworth does that would be great to have a Lutheran perspective.

[@Martin4Mary4Ever]

Non self-bias affirming Catholic here (to humor a Joke I've noticed in the threads). Before providing my critiques, I do want to acknowledge that Lutheranism is unique amongst Protestantism in being a middle point to Catholicism, however there are series of questions an ex-Calvinist or ex-Evangelical must ask before landing in Lutheranism and it seems that the sermon avoids these questions. About the 25th minute: the "...we're historical too..." line doesn't hold up to the historical claim requiring obedience to their bishops that both Catholics and most Eastern Orthodoxy can claim. This is the historical break since obedience is the fundamental virtue of the Christian required by Christ in his Gospels and the Apostles in the New Testament. About the 28th minute: the sermon has a strawman regarding the Traditionalist Latin Mass Catholics, however this does not detract from the fact there are Catholics who honestly think "Going back to Tradition" is the answer to "today's problems" but the good news there is that there are intelligent theologians who apply the traditions to today without forgetting the placement of grace in the cure. -this is not the place for that rant. About the 43rd minute: the sermon misuses the word "mystery" to mean "things we cannot know" -paraphrased. The issue here is that the word "mystery" refers to things we come to know part by part, in most cases by personal experience rather than intellectual inquiry. It does not mean, something we cannot know. Hence, the early Latins translate the Greek "Mysterion" as "Sacramentum" - A Holy Event (where we meet God). Generally, I find myself pointing to Lutheranism as the intended middle ground most popular Evangelical preachers are pointing to so I used this as an opportunity to see how a Lutheran is approaching the topic.

[@noahtylerpritchett2682]

Probably because you have German descent? Hahaha I'm kidding 😂 don't take the joke seriously

[@j.g.4942]

He's a Brit

[@noahtylerpritchett2682]

@j.g.4942 as am I but born American. The joke is that though. A joke.

[@Dilley_G45]

​@@j.g.4942 he mentioned it earlier that he has little German ancestry and a lot of Irish. He's American

[@j.g.4942]

@@noahtylerpritchett2682 sorry, just living out my Germanic half. Also do you know how many Germans it takes to change a lightbulb? One, they are efficient and don't have a sense of humour.

[@Swiftninjatrev]

Vell, ve should follow the religion of our ancestors should ve not.

[@perttisuorsa4678]

"The primary reason for all that God does is for His glory." That does not sound like a good reason to me. Calvinists teach that God has picked the people who will go to hell. Those people do not have a free will and no possibility to become believers. Calvinists believe that God has done that for His own glory. So even people who go to hell bring Him glory. The reason why there are so many different churches and sects in Cristianity is the fact that the text of the Bible is quite often unclear so that it can be interpreted in different ways. There are also quite obvious contradictions in the Bible. Some verses teach eternal security and some teach against it. Some verses very clearly teach calvinism and some speak against a Calvinistic interpretation of Christian theology. An allpowerful and omniscient God should be able to lead all sincere and truthloving Christians to the same theology, the same church. Why does that not happen ?

[@norala-gx9ld]

Calvinists ask how God glorifies Himself. Catholics and Orthodox say God glorifies Himself in His saints.

[@guyparker1749]

At 87 to 2025..🗨️🌬️🤥

[@user-ce7bj4rk8r]

By what authority does Martin Luther claim his intellectual supremacy? Is it given by God or man?

[@zacharyahearn4069]

Because he knew the Bible better than anyone else. Simple he earned his place.

[@archer_0495]

"Christian Nationalism" is literally just two kingdoms and the classical protestant conception of church and state, nothing novel. What's novel are notions of "Christic liberalism" and wholesale endorsements of the late 20th century/21st century secular liberal state. America was founded as a Christian nation, this is a historical fact. That didn't mean Papal Theocracy, it didn't even mean throne and altar as it did in Lutheran Scandinavia, or the Church of England, but it was fundamentally Christian. That's all "Christian Nationalists" want to return too. Appreciate your work on Lutheranism. Just have a difference of opinion with you here.

[@DrJordanBCooper]

@archer_0495 that's not all that CN is. Problem is that the term is used differently by different people. My talk on this will be up soon.

[@Coastie4]

If, like luther, you have zero faith in Jesus and ignore the parable of the weeds in the wheat, then yeah, go be protestant. But you'd be wrong.