The Revivalistic Heritage of the Apostolic Lutheran Church of America

Abstract

This essay explores the theological and historical development of the Apostolic Lutheran Church of America, tracing its roots to the revivalist movement led by Lars Levi Laestadius in 19th-century Finland. Blum examines how Laestadianism, with its pietistic emphasis on personal conversion, lay preaching, and anti-clerical attitudes, shaped the Apostolic Lutheran Church’s distinct identity. The essay highlights doctrinal peculiarities, including personal absolution, rejection of the third use of the law, and skepticism toward formal theological education. Blum also discusses the church’s factionalism, its complex relationship with Finland’s State Church, and its efforts to establish a seminary in the U.S. to train clergy. While retaining Lutheran terminology, the Apostolic Lutheran Church diverges significantly from confessional Lutheran theology. Blum concludes that revivalism, though spiritually influential, has hindered doctrinal clarity and unity within the movement. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)