What We Believe

Immanuel Lutheran Church is a congregation of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. 

We believe the Bible is the inerrant and inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16). The Bible teaches that all human beings are separated from God by sin (Romans 3:10-20). It also shows that God did something spectacular for us by becoming a human being in Jesus of Nazareth. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection we are forgiven and restored to the God who created us (Romans 3:21-28). We believe that we are justified, or declared to be without sin, by faith and not by the good works we perform. God owes us nothing because of our many sins, but He is good and gracious to love us and offer us mercy through Jesus. This is the Gospel.

Immanuel believes the Book of Concord, published in 1580 is a true exposition of the Bible’s basic teachings on God, Jesus, how salvation comes to us, and how to live a Christian life. 

Baptism with water in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit is a gift that unites us with God, brings us into God’s family and forgives our sins (Acts 2:38-39). It is for everyone regardless of their age or abilities. Those who are baptized are to be taught the essential teaching of the faith before or after their baptism depending on their ability to learn (Matthew 28:19-20].

We believe that the Lord’s Supper brings with it the true body and blood of Jesus under the bread and wine according to Jesus’ own Word. It brings the forgiveness of sins to those who receive it rightly in repentance and faith (Matthew 26:26-28). Therefore it is reserved for those who give a public commitment to the faith believed, taught, and confessed by our congregation (I Corinthians 1:10). If you are away from home and would like to receive communion with us, please contact our pastor before you visit.

We preach and teach the Gospel of Jesus to save the world, not to condemn it. Our task is to show mercy to people as Jesus did, that all may come to know God as their merciful Father who sent His only Son so they might not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). 

For more information on what we believe please go to Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod to find a summary of our Synod's Beliefs and Practices.

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