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Being Lutheran
Why are you Lutheran? It's a valid question in this modern age of denominations, distinctions, and choices.
291 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2016
93 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
A. Trevor Sutton
15 books43 followersA. Trevor Sutton is associate pastor at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Haslett, Michigan. He is currently a graduate student in Writing and Rhetoric at Michigan State University. Sutton has a BA from Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and an MDiv from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.
Sutton’s work has appeared in Faith & Leadership (Duke Divinity School), The Cresset (Valparaiso University), and Concordia Journal (Concordia Seminary). He has published multiple sermons, Bible studies, and devotional books with various Christian publishers. He previously served as managing editor of Relief Journal: A Christian Literary Expression. He speaks at academic conferences, retreats, and congregations.
Sutton lives in Lansing, Michigan, with his wife and two daughters. He enjoys cycling, hiking, fly-fishing, and impromptu dance parties with his daughters.
Sutton’s work has appeared in Faith & Leadership (Duke Divinity School), The Cresset (Valparaiso University), and Concordia Journal (Concordia Seminary). He has published multiple sermons, Bible studies, and devotional books with various Christian publishers. He previously served as managing editor of Relief Journal: A Christian Literary Expression. He speaks at academic conferences, retreats, and congregations.
Sutton lives in Lansing, Michigan, with his wife and two daughters. He enjoys cycling, hiking, fly-fishing, and impromptu dance parties with his daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 10, 2021
I honestly love the format.
Relevant. Simple. Insightful.
Relevant. Simple. Insightful.
February 10, 2017
The first half of Being Lutheran has a lot of history of the Reformation and information about the time of Martin Luther (the 1500's) and how Luther's teachings were different from the Medieval Roman Catholic Church. However, in its talk of how Lutherans challenge being closed, lukewarm, ignorant, lazy, and pastel (which are the titles of the first five chapters) it doesn't sound very specifically Lutheran.
The second half of Being Lutheran finally explains the doctrines that set Lutheranism apart. Lutherans take Jesus at his word and believe what he says about baptism, the Lord's Supper, Absolution, worship, etc. This section was very good. I would recommend lifelong Lutherans to actually read this half first. It's a little easier to hear what you should be doing (the first half) when you've been filled with the Good News of God's Word (the second half). Other Christians should read the book in order because you can see what Lutherans and other Christians have in common before reading about our differences.
Overall, this was a good book, though I'm not sure who the target audience would be. He probably was trying to write a little for everyone. For pastors and those with more theological knowledge he throws in Latin and German terms. For typical laypeople he uses simple language. For those very engrossed in current lingo he uses that kind of language, too. For all types of Christians this book can be a useful primer into how Lutherans believe, think, and act. And for Lutherans it can be the kick in the pants that you need to remember to fulfill your vocations and serve your neighbors "as for the Lord and not for men."
The second half of Being Lutheran finally explains the doctrines that set Lutheranism apart. Lutherans take Jesus at his word and believe what he says about baptism, the Lord's Supper, Absolution, worship, etc. This section was very good. I would recommend lifelong Lutherans to actually read this half first. It's a little easier to hear what you should be doing (the first half) when you've been filled with the Good News of God's Word (the second half). Other Christians should read the book in order because you can see what Lutherans and other Christians have in common before reading about our differences.
Overall, this was a good book, though I'm not sure who the target audience would be. He probably was trying to write a little for everyone. For pastors and those with more theological knowledge he throws in Latin and German terms. For typical laypeople he uses simple language. For those very engrossed in current lingo he uses that kind of language, too. For all types of Christians this book can be a useful primer into how Lutherans believe, think, and act. And for Lutherans it can be the kick in the pants that you need to remember to fulfill your vocations and serve your neighbors "as for the Lord and not for men."
February 16, 2020
I read this book slowly, savoring and reflecting. As someone who grew up (at least) fourth generation Lutheran, and born-baptized-confirmed LCMS, attending a Lutheran school from nursery through grade eight, it is deceptively easy to think Iknow what it means to "be Lutheran." In some cases and on some days, it *is* easy. But it is also too easy to do it without thinking about it, considering it, *choosing* it...or understanding it. Being Lutheran is a catalyst for the deep contemplation and careful introspection that drive understanding.
Written in contemporary language, Sutton's book goes right for the heart, in the first half inspecting the aspects of Christianity we need to challenge, in the second reminding us what we need to cling to. It takes modern life and strips away the assumptions of modern culture in defining what Christians -- specifically Lutherans -- are and believe. It is so easy to hear the words of the world telling us how we view this or respond to that, distracting us from who we actually are and what we need to do.
There were convictions and guidance throughout this book, but Chapter 5 "Confused" and Chapter 7 "Ordinary" spoke to me especially. Even though I completed this book, I can see myself going back to these chapters again for additional thought. The Conclusion also felt especially poignant.
This book is not just for those who are generations-deep in the Lutheran tradition, it is for those curious about what Lutherans believe and what makes us different from other Christian traditions. It is for those who just joined a Lutheran church, those who have no church, those who feel like maybe there's something missing, and yes, for Lutherans who have been here a long while. I mentioned that this book is brimming in conviction, *but* like the Gospel on which the Lutheran tradition of Christianity remains steadfastly planted, it is rich in comfort through instruction. Don't assume you know what it means to "be Lutheran," whether you're looking in through the window or you've been a lifelong member of the Body of Christ. There is always *so* much to learn. I look forward to reading more of A. Trevor Sutton's works in my personal quest to continue the education process in my walk with Jesus.
Written in contemporary language, Sutton's book goes right for the heart, in the first half inspecting the aspects of Christianity we need to challenge, in the second reminding us what we need to cling to. It takes modern life and strips away the assumptions of modern culture in defining what Christians -- specifically Lutherans -- are and believe. It is so easy to hear the words of the world telling us how we view this or respond to that, distracting us from who we actually are and what we need to do.
There were convictions and guidance throughout this book, but Chapter 5 "Confused" and Chapter 7 "Ordinary" spoke to me especially. Even though I completed this book, I can see myself going back to these chapters again for additional thought. The Conclusion also felt especially poignant.
This book is not just for those who are generations-deep in the Lutheran tradition, it is for those curious about what Lutherans believe and what makes us different from other Christian traditions. It is for those who just joined a Lutheran church, those who have no church, those who feel like maybe there's something missing, and yes, for Lutherans who have been here a long while. I mentioned that this book is brimming in conviction, *but* like the Gospel on which the Lutheran tradition of Christianity remains steadfastly planted, it is rich in comfort through instruction. Don't assume you know what it means to "be Lutheran," whether you're looking in through the window or you've been a lifelong member of the Body of Christ. There is always *so* much to learn. I look forward to reading more of A. Trevor Sutton's works in my personal quest to continue the education process in my walk with Jesus.
January 9, 2017
I was graciously given this book by a friend who was very enthusiastic over it, and I can understand why: Being Lutheran is accessible and yet thorough. Sutton covers all the well-worn paths of Lutheran theology, but he does so without sounding as though he's rehashing it all, and has found ways to communicate the timeless truths of Lutheran theology without automatically resorting to Lutheran-ese. So he communicates, and I believe he communicates well. As a brother Lutheran pastor of Sutton, I believe he does his work admirably, and I could certainly see myself recommending it to a number of different people.
Shifting to my own personal reflections, however: the book didn't trip any triggers for me. I found myself craving a bit more depth, a bit more academia--but that of course is not the point of the book. And again, I understand that Sutton's use of individual vignettes were personal anecdotes intended to highlight through the truths of the preceding chapter, but I personally find such things contrived rather than congenial.
So, a good book that has usefulness and fills a needed niche? I certainly think so. A good book for me? I don't fit easily into the niche that Sutton is writing for. So "my rating" is, in this case, merely that: my rating. I daresay you--or others I will recommend the book to--will find it more riveting.
Shifting to my own personal reflections, however: the book didn't trip any triggers for me. I found myself craving a bit more depth, a bit more academia--but that of course is not the point of the book. And again, I understand that Sutton's use of individual vignettes were personal anecdotes intended to highlight through the truths of the preceding chapter, but I personally find such things contrived rather than congenial.
So, a good book that has usefulness and fills a needed niche? I certainly think so. A good book for me? I don't fit easily into the niche that Sutton is writing for. So "my rating" is, in this case, merely that: my rating. I daresay you--or others I will recommend the book to--will find it more riveting.
August 6, 2016
EXCELLENT!! Cleverly written, historically accurate, foundationally confessional, all-around-good!
February 21, 2023
This is a completely useless book because the writer couldn't decide who he was writing for or what he wanted to say. I was hoping to learn more about what distinguishes Lutheran denominations from others. At least 99% of the things he claims are Lutheran distinctives are actually just moderate and conservative protestant things. Several I know for a fact aren't universal Lutherans things because they are contradicted by Lutheran churches I've watched sermons from.
And then at the end the author has the gall to say "I've said being Lutheran is about following Jesus, so why aren't you Lutheran?" While giving literally zero ways to distinguish Lutherans from Presbyterians and very little way to distinguish them from Baptists.
If you want a mediocre Christian formation book that occasionally veers off onto anti catholic polemic, this might be what you are looking for. But if you want to know anything unique about Lutheran practice or theology, look elsewhere.
And then at the end the author has the gall to say "I've said being Lutheran is about following Jesus, so why aren't you Lutheran?" While giving literally zero ways to distinguish Lutherans from Presbyterians and very little way to distinguish them from Baptists.
If you want a mediocre Christian formation book that occasionally veers off onto anti catholic polemic, this might be what you are looking for. But if you want to know anything unique about Lutheran practice or theology, look elsewhere.
June 24, 2020
This is a good overview of what it means to be Lutheran. The two main sections of the book are "What we Challenge" and "What we Cherish." My favorite quote from the book is the clear definition of the three uses of the Law. "Lutherans are far from antinomians. We believe that the Law should curb, mirror and guide our lives. The Law curbs our sinful impulses, reveals our brokenness and need for a savior, and guides our daily decisions."
In the end Pastor Sutton helps us understand why we go to church. If we choose the community or potluck over Word and sacraments then we have it wrong. We should always go where ". . . the [Word of God] Gospel is truly preached and the sacraments rightly ministered." (Adam Clark, 1827)
In the end Pastor Sutton helps us understand why we go to church. If we choose the community or potluck over Word and sacraments then we have it wrong. We should always go where ". . . the [Word of God] Gospel is truly preached and the sacraments rightly ministered." (Adam Clark, 1827)
April 17, 2025
I’m very disappointed with this book and wish I could rate it lower.
First, I was trying desperate to find his WLS resource be used. Turns out, it’s a $70 book. Who has $70 to reference what was said? He’s talking about “open access” …
Secondly, he’s talking about open communion being closed access, and says “allows anyone to access communion”. Which if he’s ever experienced open communion, you’d know they’d ask you to check your heart posture. How do you know, with closed communion, that people aren’t taking it “against their rules”? Why not keep it open and ask people to check their heart posture.
I couldn’t read something preaching Lutherism while it condemns people in the same sentence.
-signed, an upset Lutheran.
First, I was trying desperate to find his WLS resource be used. Turns out, it’s a $70 book. Who has $70 to reference what was said? He’s talking about “open access” …
Secondly, he’s talking about open communion being closed access, and says “allows anyone to access communion”. Which if he’s ever experienced open communion, you’d know they’d ask you to check your heart posture. How do you know, with closed communion, that people aren’t taking it “against their rules”? Why not keep it open and ask people to check their heart posture.
I couldn’t read something preaching Lutherism while it condemns people in the same sentence.
-signed, an upset Lutheran.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2021
Simply put, this book is incredible! As a life-long Lutheran, I was not sure I really needed to read a book about being Lutheran, but I was blessedly surprised by this book. It offered clarity and a description of distinct characteristics of the Lutheran faith. I also appreciated that people who are not Lutheran, or not even Christian, can get something out of this book.
With thorough description, Pastor Sutton offers a two-part text that helps readers understand (or remember) what we reject as Lutherans and what we embrace. And the best part of this book? Everything points to Jesus and His Word. Thanks be to God!
With thorough description, Pastor Sutton offers a two-part text that helps readers understand (or remember) what we reject as Lutherans and what we embrace. And the best part of this book? Everything points to Jesus and His Word. Thanks be to God!
December 15, 2023
There are close to 80 million Lutherans in the world. They trace their histories back to the Reformation and Martin Luther. They are closer to Catholicism than some later Reformation Churches. However, don't take that statement too far. They are definitely Protestants. Lutherans are divided into a variety of synods and hold varying beliefs and practices. The author is a senior pastor at a church belonging to The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. This book is easy to read and understand.
November 18, 2018
Very good read for any Christian regardless of where you are in your faith journey. Though this book is written for those of us of the Lutheran persuasion, it is a good resource for all Jesus followers. Pastor Trevor does a wonderful job of giving theology and history on one page followed by the practical application on the next. Highly recommended!
January 30, 2022
I ordered this book from Concordia Press when I ordered my little Playmobile Martin Luther. I knew it would be . . . more conservative than me.
The author had a nice structure to the book. Also the theological points and Lutheran traditions were all spot on. The gratuitous hits toward modern culture and more liberal Lutherans really detracted from the valuable lessons in the book.
The author had a nice structure to the book. Also the theological points and Lutheran traditions were all spot on. The gratuitous hits toward modern culture and more liberal Lutherans really detracted from the valuable lessons in the book.
January 24, 2024
Written by a pastor of the Missouri Synod. Served as the basis for a discussion group at my local ELCA congregation. Very conservative but served as the stimulus for learning about the differences between the two synods. Don't recommend unless group is led by a knowledgeable pastor.
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May 25, 2017
Enjoyable book. For someone interested in Lutheranism, clear and concise explanation of what it is. For a long-time Lutheran, a reminder of what makes Lutherans unique. Cleverly written, well organized and good illustrations.
September 19, 2017
We read this as a small group study, which I highly recommend. I expected "super Lutheran", what I got and loved was a call to Scriptural foundations, digging deeper into why we believe what we believe, and stepping out of our confide zones for the Kingdom.
March 17, 2018
For "Newtherans" too
As a new Lutheran this book gave me the opportunity to read both what is confessed and the struggles of Being Lutheran as well in a sad fallen world. Loved it. Learned so much from it.
As a new Lutheran this book gave me the opportunity to read both what is confessed and the struggles of Being Lutheran as well in a sad fallen world. Loved it. Learned so much from it.
July 10, 2025
This book is an excellent summary of Lutheran theology. It is broken into two sections and flows well as a result. The only nitpick I have is that it can get a little redundant. Still, I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
May 20, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book. It is a good refresher to my faith as a Lutheran.
June 8, 2017
Solid overview on what it means to be a Lutheran. Easy to read and follow. Recommended to those wanting to gain some background on the Lutheran denomination of Christianity.
July 10, 2017
Just read it!
September 18, 2017
Important book. Being Lutheran is not being Lutheran but rather being Lutheran is following Jesus
December 11, 2017
A good and useful tool. Even if you are not a Lutheran. Clear and witty.
August 26, 2020
Excellent reading for anyone and all denominationS!
November 30, 2020
Relevant, easy reading sharing the Lutheran difference snd why it matters.
June 21, 2024
A great refresher on our why
September 11, 2024
This was a great introduction to Lutheranism. This is not a complete systematic theology, but rather, a cursory introduction. Looking forward to diving deeper into this tradition!
April 10, 2017
Excellent look at what Lutherans believe and why. Very insightful reasoning’s for the way Luther himself understood the Bible and how it applies to all of our daily lives as we follow Jesus.
May 3, 2021
I'd give this 4.5 stars if that were an option.
September 24, 2016
Lutherans: They have Jesus!
Sutton presents a good primer on Being Lutheran. This book is also a great review for all Christians and Lutherans alike. The book is written well and screams to be read. I enjoyed it very much.
Sutton presents a good primer on Being Lutheran. This book is also a great review for all Christians and Lutherans alike. The book is written well and screams to be read. I enjoyed it very much.
October 25, 2016
Being Lutheran is a terrific introduction to understanding the Lutheran faith whether the reader is a beginning Lutheran in catechism class or whether the reader is not Lutheran and simply wants to understand what being Lutheran means. Being Lutheran is not a book that delves deeply into the doctrines of Lutheranism. You can read the Book of Concord for that. Being Lutheran is simply a clarification of what it means, well, to be Lutheran. Of course, the reader will come across Lutheran doctrine in the book since theology cannot be avoided in any Christian book, but doctrine is not its purpose. The book helps to clarify any confusion the beginning Lutheran or non-Lutheran may have about Lutheranism—that "every Lutheran doctrine comes back to Jesus" (xii) and, at the core of it, "Being Lutheran is about following Jesus" (xix). Now, you may say, "But I'm Baptist and I feel that I follow Jesus." That may well be true, but the core of Lutheranism is that the foundation of every Lutheran doctrine and aspect of our lives is rested in Christ, not any sort of human reason or tradition. You don't have to be Lutheran in order to be a Christian, but as Pastor Sutton shows, being Lutheran "is about theologically informed practice, biblically based behavior, and godly action. It is about living the faith you have received" (xviii).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews