Who were the Old Lutherans and where did they primarily originate?

The Old Lutherans were German Lutherans who primarily originated in the Kingdom of Prussia, particularly in the Province of Silesia. They emerged as a distinct group in the 1830s and 1840s.

What was the main reason for the Old Lutherans' refusal to join the Prussian Union?

The Old Lutherans refused to join the Prussian Union because they opposed the unification of Lutheran and Reformed churches, which they believed compromised their confessional identity and liturgical practices. They particularly objected to the homogenization of liturgy, organization, and architecture mandated by the Prussian government.

What was King Frederick William III of Prussia's objective regarding the Protestant churches in his kingdom?

King Frederick William III of Prussia was determined to unify the Protestant churches within his kingdom. His goal was to create a single, unified church structure, homogenizing their liturgy, organization, and architecture.

When was the new common liturgical agenda for Prussian churches published, and what was its purpose?

A common liturgical agenda, intended for use in both Lutheran and Reformed congregations, was finally published in 1821 after more than twenty years of effort. Its purpose was to standardize worship services across the unified Protestant churches.

What specific theological concern did many Lutherans have with the 1821 liturgical agenda?

Many Lutherans objected to the 1821 liturgical agenda because its wording concerning the Words of Institution was seen as compromising. They felt it did not adequately proclaim the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, a key doctrine for Lutherans.

What was the royal decree issued in 1830 concerning the Lord's Supper?

In 1830, Frederick William III issued a decree mandating that all Protestant congregations in Prussia use the newly formulated agenda for celebrating the Lord's Supper. This directive aimed to enforce the use of the unified liturgy.

What actions were taken against pastors who defied the Prussian Union decrees?

Pastors who defied the decrees by continuing to use the old liturgical agenda and sacramental rites were subject to disciplinary action. Those caught acting in a pastoral role after suspension were imprisoned.

Who was Johann Gottfried Scheibel and what role did he play among the Old Lutherans?

Johann Gottfried Scheibel was a prominent leader of the Old Lutherans. He was a professor of theology in Breslau who was suspended in 1830 for his dissenting views against the Prussian Union. He actively spoke, preached, and wrote against the Union, becoming a key figure in the dissent.

What led to Johann Gottfried Scheibel's suspension from his professorship?

Johann Gottfried Scheibel was suspended from his post as a theological professor in Breslau in 1830 due to his dissenting views and his opposition to the Prussian Union, which he expressed through sermons and writings.

Where did Johann Gottfried Scheibel move after being suspended and ordered to leave Dresden?

After being ordered to leave Dresden, Johann Gottfried Scheibel moved to Hermsdorf, Saxony, and subsequently to Glauchau and Nuremberg, continuing his dissent despite facing pressure to relocate.

Who became a leader of the Old Lutherans after Johann Gottfried Scheibel?

After Johann Gottfried Scheibel, Eduard Huschke became a leader of the Old Lutherans.

What other notable figures were associated with the Old Lutherans?

Besides Johann Gottfried Scheibel and Eduard Huschke, other famous Old Lutherans mentioned include Henrik Steffens, H. E. F. Guericke, Karl Friedrich August Kahnis, and Rudolf Rocholl.

What theological movement emerged as a confessional Lutheran counter-reaction to the Prussian Union?

Neo-Lutheranism emerged as a confessional Lutheran counter-reaction to the Prussian Union, seeking to reaffirm traditional Lutheran doctrines and practices.

When did the persecution of Old Lutherans ease, and why?

The persecution of Old Lutherans eased substantially after the death of King Frederick William III in 1840. However, they continued to face marginalization, particularly regarding the rights and support for their clergy compared to those in the Union church.

What is the legacy of the Old Lutherans in modern Germany?

The legacy of the Old Lutherans survives today in the Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church (SELK) in Germany, which was formed through various mergers of synods established by Old Lutherans.

By what year were many dissenting Old Lutheran groups considering emigration as a means to find religious freedom?

By 1835, many dissenting Old Lutheran groups were looking to emigration as a way to find religious freedom.

In what year did the first significant number of Prussian Lutheran immigrants arrive in South Australia?

The first significant number of Lutheran immigrants from Prussia arrived in South Australia in 1838.

Who led the first wave of Prussian immigrants to South Australia in 1838?

The first wave of Prussian immigrants to South Australia in 1838 was led by Pastor August Kavel.

What were the initial settlements established by Pastor Kavel's group in South Australia?

Pastor Kavel's group established three settlements in South Australia: Klemzig, Hahndorf, and Glen Osmond.

Who led the second wave of Prussian immigrants to South Australia in 1841?

The second wave of Prussian immigrants, arriving in 1841, was led by Pastor Gotthard Fritzsche.

Where did Pastor Gotthard Fritzsche's group settle in South Australia?

Gotthard Fritzsche's group settled in Lobethal and Bethanien in South Australia.

Which mission station in South Australia was established by Lutherans, and where was it located?

The Killalpaninna Mission, also known as Bethesda Station, was established by Lutherans at Cooper's Creek in South Australia.

Who was the pioneer missionary of German New Guinea who served at the Killalpaninna Mission?

Johann Flierl, the pioneer missionary of German New Guinea, served at the Killalpaninna Mission for seven years.

How many waves of migration have occurred into the Lutheran Church in New Zealand, according to the text?

According to the text, there have been five waves of migration into the Lutheran Church in New Zealand.

When did the first Lutheran missionaries arrive in Otago, New Zealand, and where did they subsequently go?

The first Lutheran missionaries arrived in Otago, New Zealand, in January 1843. Finding established missions, they took up the suggestion to move to the Chatham Islands, where they arrived on February 20, 1843.

In what year did a shipload of German migrants arrive in Nelson, New Zealand, and where did they settle?

A shipload of German migrants arrived in Nelson, New Zealand, in June 1843, and they settled in the area now known as Upper Moutere.

In which region of New Zealand did German people settle in the 1860s, leading others from South Australia to join them?

In the 1860s, German people settled in the Rangitikei region of New Zealand, and some persuaded others from German-speaking communities in South Australia to join them.

Which towns in New Zealand owe their origins to Lutheran migrants from Scandinavia in the 1870s?

Norsewood and Dannevirke in New Zealand owe their origins to Lutheran migrants, including large numbers from Scandinavia, who settled in the Wairarapa, Manawatu, and Hawkes Bay regions in the 1870s.

What ship is mentioned as having carried some of the Saxon emigrants to America?

The ship named *Olbers* is mentioned as having carried some of the Saxon emigrants.

Who led the group of approximately 1000 Old Lutherans from Prussia who emigrated to the United States in 1839?

The group of about 1000 Old Lutherans from Prussia, originating from Erfurt, Magdeburg, and the surrounding area, was led by J. A. A. Grabau.

What synod was founded by J. A. A. Grabau and his fellow Prussian immigrants?

J. A. A. Grabau and his friends founded the 'Synod of Lutherans immigrated from Prussia,' which later became known as the Buffalo Synod.

Where did thousands of other Old Lutherans settle in the United States during the period of emigration?

Thousands of other Old Lutherans settled in the Midwest and Upper Midwest regions of the United States.

Who led nearly 1100 Saxon Lutherans from the Kingdom of Saxony to the United States in 1838?

Lutheran pastor Martin Stephan led nearly 1100 other Saxon Lutherans who left the Kingdom of Saxony for the United States in November 1838.

What historical event are the Saxon Lutheran immigrants of 1838-39 associated with?

The Saxon Lutheran immigrants of 1838-39 are associated with the Saxon Lutheran immigration of 1838-39.

What major Lutheran denomination in the United States traces its origins to the Saxon Lutheran immigration?

The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod traces its origins to the Saxon Lutheran immigration of 1838-39.

What was the primary goal of the Prussian Union of churches?

The primary goal of the Prussian Union of churches was to unify the Lutheran and Reformed congregations within Prussia, standardizing their liturgy, organization, and architecture under state control.

What does the term 'Old Lutherans' refer to in the context of Prussian religious history?

The term 'Old Lutherans' refers to German Lutherans in Prussia, particularly in Silesia, who resisted the forced unification into the Prussian Union of churches in the 1830s and 1840s, preferring to maintain their traditional Lutheran identity.

How did the Prussian government attempt to enforce the use of the new liturgical agenda?

The Prussian government enforced the use of the new liturgical agenda through royal decrees, directing congregations to use it for worship and for celebrating the Lord's Supper. Non-compliance led to disciplinary actions against pastors.

What was the significance of the 'Protestation at Speyer' mentioned in the context of Lutheran history?

The 'Protestation at Speyer' refers to a historical event where Lutheran princes protested against the imperial decree at the Diet of Speyer in 1529, which sought to suppress the Reformation. This act is foundational to the term 'Protestant'.

What is the Book of Concord?

The Book of Concord is a collection of confessional documents that are considered authoritative in Lutheran churches. It includes key documents like the Augsburg Confession and Luther's Catechisms, summarizing Lutheran doctrine.

What does the doctrine of 'Law and Gospel' signify in Lutheran theology?

The distinction between Law and Gospel is a fundamental concept in Lutheran theology, emphasizing that the Law reveals God's commands and human sinfulness, while the Gospel proclaims God's grace and forgiveness through Christ.

What is the 'Theology of the Cross' in Lutheran thought?

The Theology of the Cross is a concept central to Lutheran theology, focusing on understanding God's action and revelation not in glory and power, but in suffering and weakness, as exemplified by the crucifixion of Christ.

What role did emigration play for the Old Lutherans?

Emigration played a crucial role for the Old Lutherans as a means to escape religious persecution and find freedom to practice their faith. Many Old Lutherans emigrated to countries like Australia, Canada, and the United States, establishing Lutheran communities there.

What is the Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church (SELK)?

The Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church (SELK) is a Lutheran church body in Germany that traces its origins back to the Old Lutherans. It was formed through the eventual merger of synods established by those who resisted the Prussian Union.

What was the 'Saxon Lutheran immigration of 1838-39'?

The 'Saxon Lutheran immigration of 1838-39' refers to the emigration of a group of nearly 1100 Lutherans from the Kingdom of Saxony, led by Pastor Martin Stephan, to the United States. They eventually settled in and around St. Louis, Missouri, and are considered predecessors to the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.

What is the significance of the Augsburg Confession in Lutheranism?

The Augsburg Confession is a primary statement of Lutheran faith, presented in 1530. It outlines the core doctrines of Lutheranism and served as a foundational document for the movement, distinguishing it from Roman Catholicism and other Protestant groups.

What does the term 'Real Presence' refer to in the context of the Eucharist?

The 'Real Presence' is a doctrine held by Lutherans and some other Christian traditions, asserting that Jesus Christ is truly, substantially, and bodily present in the Eucharist (Holy Communion), not merely symbolically.

What were the 'Words of Institution' in the context of the 1821 Prussian liturgical agenda controversy?

The 'Words of Institution' refer to the specific words spoken by Jesus during the Last Supper, as recorded in the Gospels and used in the celebration of the Eucharist. The controversy arose because the wording in the new agenda was perceived by some Lutherans as obscuring the doctrine of the Real Presence.

What is a 'liturgical agenda'?

A liturgical agenda is a book or set of instructions that outlines the order of services, prayers, readings, and rituals for public worship within a Christian church. It guides the conduct of church services.

What is a 'synod' in the context of church organization?

A synod is a council or assembly of church officials, such as bishops and clergy, or sometimes lay representatives, convened to discuss and decide on matters of doctrine, governance, and administration within a church or denomination.

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Historical Context

Royal Decree and Unification

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Kingdom of Prussia, under King Frederick William III, embarked on a policy of church unification. The monarch sought to consolidate the Lutheran and Reformed Protestant churches into a single entity, the "Church of the Prussian Union." This initiative aimed to standardize liturgy, organization, and architecture across the kingdom, placing church affairs under direct royal control and establishing the king as the supreme bishop.^[1]^[2]

The Controversial Agenda

A key point of contention was the mandated liturgical Agenda, first published in 1799 and revised over decades. The final version, enforced in 1821 and again in 1830 for the celebration of the Lord's Supper, was met with significant Lutheran opposition. Many perceived that the wording concerning the Words of Institution had been compromised, obscuring the doctrine of the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.^{^[3]}

Resistance and the Birth of "Old Lutherans"

The royal decree mandating the new Agenda in 1830, intended to foster unity, instead ignited widespread dissent among Lutheran congregations. Rather than unifying the churches, it created a deep schism. Those Lutherans who refused to adopt the new liturgy and rites, adhering strictly to their traditional Lutheran confessions, became known as the "Old Lutherans."^[4]

The Prussian Union

Royal Mandate for Unity

King Frederick William III's vision was to create a unified Protestant church in Prussia. This ambition led to the establishment of the "Church of the Prussian Union," which merged the Lutheran and Reformed traditions. The king's decrees aimed for uniformity in worship and church governance, believing this would strengthen the state and its religious institutions.^[1]^[2]

A Compromise That Failed

In an attempt to appease the dissenters, a compromise was issued in 1834. This decree stipulated that the Union would primarily pertain to governance and liturgy, allowing congregations to retain their confessional identities. However, it also prohibited the formation of "sectarian groups," a measure that continued to constrain the Old Lutherans.^{^[3]} Despite this, many pastors and congregations persisted in using the older Lutheran liturgical forms.

State Control and Confessional Integrity

The Union represented a significant assertion of state authority over religious matters. For the Old Lutherans, this was an unacceptable infringement upon their confessional integrity. They believed that the core doctrines and practices of Lutheranism, particularly regarding the sacraments, were being diluted or compromised, necessitating a firm stand for their traditional faith.^[4]

Confessional Stand and Suppression

Leaders of the Opposition

Prominent figures emerged to articulate and lead the Old Lutheran resistance. Johann Gottfried Scheibel (1783–1843), a professor of theology in Breslau, became a leading voice against the Union. His suspension from his post in 1830 for his dissenting views marked him as a significant leader. Scheibel continued to preach and write against the Union, moving through various cities like Dresden and Nuremberg.^{^[5]} Other notable figures included Eduard Huschke, Henrik Steffens, H. E. F. Guericke, Kahnis, and Rudolf Rocholl.^{^[5]}

Consequences of Defiance

Defiance against the royal decrees carried severe penalties. Pastors who continued to use the old liturgical agenda and sacramental rites faced suspension from their ministry. If they persisted in pastoral duties after suspension, they were subject to imprisonment. This systematic suppression aimed to enforce compliance with the Union's directives.^{^[3]}

Theological Underpinnings

The Old Lutherans' stance was rooted in a commitment to confessional Lutheranism. They emphasized the importance of maintaining the purity of Lutheran doctrine as articulated in the Book of Concord, particularly concerning the understanding of the Eucharist and the autonomy of the church from state control. Their resistance was not merely organizational but deeply theological, centered on preserving what they understood as the true Lutheran faith.^[4]

The Great Exodus: Seeking Religious Freedom

A Global Dispersion

By the mid-19th century, the persistent persecution and lack of religious freedom led many Old Lutherans to seek refuge abroad. Emigration became a significant means for these communities to preserve their faith and establish new lives. Major destinations included Australia, Canada, and the United States, where they could practice their faith without state interference.^{^[3]}

Settlements in Australia

The first significant wave of Lutherans to Australia comprised immigrants from Prussia who arrived in South Australia in 1838, led by Pastor August Kavel. They established settlements such as Klemzig, Hahndorf, and Glen Osmond. A second wave in 1841, led by Pastor Gotthard Fritzsche, settled in Lobethal and Bethanien. These communities laid the foundation for Lutheranism in Australia, later establishing missions like the Killalpaninna Mission.^{^[7]}^[8]

North American Foundations

In the United States, Old Lutherans from Prussia, led by J. A. A. Grabau, emigrated in 1839, forming the Buffalo Synod. Simultaneously, a group of Saxon Lutherans, influenced by Pastor Martin Stephan, also emigrated in 1838–1839, settling near St. Louis, Missouri. These Saxon immigrants are considered the precursors to the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, establishing a significant confessional Lutheran presence in North America.^{^[7]}^[10]

New Zealand's Lutheran Communities

New Zealand also received Lutheran migrants in several waves, beginning in the 1840s from Germany. Subsequent migrations in the 1860s, 1870s, and post-World War II periods, along with more recent arrivals from diverse global regions, contributed to the establishment and growth of Lutheran congregations across the country.^{[citation needed]}

An Enduring Legacy

The SELK in Germany

The Old Lutherans' struggle for confessional integrity eventually led to the formation of organized synods. In Prussia, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Prussia was officially recognized in 1845. Through various mergers and developments, this lineage has culminated in the present-day Independent Evangelical-Lutheran Church (SELK) in Germany, which continues to uphold the confessional principles of the Old Lutherans.^[6]

Global Impact

The emigration of Old Lutherans profoundly shaped the landscape of Lutheranism worldwide. The churches established in Australia, Canada, and the United States, often rooted in the confessional stance of the Old Lutherans, became significant denominations. These communities preserved and propagated a distinct form of confessional Lutheranism, influencing theological discourse and practice across continents.

Preserving Tradition

The Old Lutherans' movement stands as a testament to the importance of confessional fidelity in the face of state pressure. Their history underscores the enduring value placed on doctrinal purity and the right to worship according to deeply held theological convictions. Their legacy continues to inform discussions on church-state relations and the nature of confessional identity within Protestant traditions.

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References

Christopher Clark. Iron Kingdom: Of the rise and downfall of Prussia, 1600-1947. (2006) pp. 412â419.

"A little bit of history", SELK website (2007)

Martin O. Westerhaus, "The Confessional Lutheran Emigrations From Prussia And Saxony Around 1839", 1989

Regina Ganter, Johann Flierl. Griffith University.

"Lutherans", The New Schaff-Herzog Religious Encyclopedia, 1909, p. 89

A full list of references for this article are available at the Old Lutherans Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. The historical and theological nuances presented are synthesized for clarity and educational value.

This is not theological or historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research, theological consultation, or pastoral guidance. Always consult with qualified scholars, theologians, or church historians for specific inquiries related to religious history and doctrine. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

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The Unyielding Faithful

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Historical Context 🏛️

👑 Royal Decree and Unification

📖 The Controversial Agenda

✊ Resistance and the Birth of "Old Lutherans"

The Prussian Union 🔗

📜 Royal Mandate for Unity

🕊️ A Compromise That Failed

⚖️ State Control and Confessional Integrity

Confessional Stand and Suppression 🛡️

🗣️ Leaders of the Opposition

⛓️ Consequences of Defiance

💡 Theological Underpinnings

The Great Exodus: Seeking Religious Freedom ✈️

🌍 A Global Dispersion

🇦🇺 Settlements in Australia

🇺🇸 North American Foundations

🇳🇿 New Zealand's Lutheran Communities

An Enduring Legacy 🌳

🇩🇪 The SELK in Germany

🌐 Global Impact

💡 Preserving Tradition

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Historical Context

Royal Decree and Unification

The Controversial Agenda

Resistance and the Birth of "Old Lutherans"

The Prussian Union

Royal Mandate for Unity

A Compromise That Failed

State Control and Confessional Integrity

Confessional Stand and Suppression

Leaders of the Opposition

Consequences of Defiance

Theological Underpinnings

The Great Exodus: Seeking Religious Freedom

A Global Dispersion

Settlements in Australia

North American Foundations

New Zealand's Lutheran Communities

An Enduring Legacy

The SELK in Germany

Global Impact

Preserving Tradition

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice