The Conversations

The Conversations revisit the foundational teachings and practices of the Church. By asking the enduring Lutheran question, “What does this mean?” we seek to understand our faith, remaining rooted in the truth of Holy Scripture.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. | Colossians 3:16

The Conversations is a recurring feature of Lutheran Church–Canada’s weekly e-newsletter, in response to calls from pastors and laity to return to the fundamentals of the faith. Through guided discussions between the Director of Communications and pastors across LCC, The Conversations help readers understand not only what the Church teaches and does, but why–rooting each topic in Holy Scripture and the life of the Church.

The Conversations on July 16, 2026

With a basic understanding of Law and Gospel from our previous Conversations, today, we explore why the insistence on a distinction. Returning to probe that with the Director of Communications (Dr. T) is Rev. Al Lewis.

Dr. T:

In previous Conversations, you explained the purpose of God’s Law, but why do Lutherans insist on distinguishing Law and Gospel?

Rev. Lewis:

Most of us have sought the key that unlocks some treasure—however, we define ‘treasure.’ The treasure could be marrying a loved one or finding that perfect gift, the purchase of a new car or a special antique vehicle, that first house, a longed-for vacation, an effective medical treatment and so forth.

As a redeemed son or daughter of God, we know He has given us the greatest of all treasures, forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation because of Jesus’ life of perfect obedience, His innocent death, and victorious resurrection for us as revealed to us in the Holy Scriptures.

And, at the same time, we know there are times when the Bible seems difficult to understand and even appears to be contradictory. For example, consider these verses: the righteous shall live by his faith (Habakkuk 2:4b ESV); 7 Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous (1 John 3:7 ESV); and, 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 3:23-24 ESV). A key is needed to properly unlock the Bible, so we not only understand the message but know how to correctly apply the teachings to daily life. This key is the proper distinction between Law and Gospel. Knowing the correct definition of ‘Law’ and ‘Gospel.’ Being able to identify when the Bible is communicating the Law and when it is communicating the Gospel. And then applying both appropriately.

Without knowing the proper distinction between Law and Gospel, the Bible becomes a locked book, and its message can easily be misinterpreted leading to confusion and controversy. Improperly applying Law and Gospel can lead to a sinner being left comfortable in their sins or a contrite sinner doubting that God forgives them for Jesus’ sake. Or it can turn Jesus into a new Moses or Lawgiver. Making the Gospel into some kind meritorious work that we must do in order to earn God’s favour.

Rev. Al Lewis graduated from CLS in 1992 and served as a parish pastor in B.C. and Alberta. After retiring in 2013 he ministered as an Intentional Interim Pastor in three congregations over ten years dealing mainly with conflict ministry. He is currently serving as vacancy pastor at King of Kings Lutheran Church, Dickson, AB.

There is more to say on this topic. So, we will pick up this Conversation in our next entry, as we continue our journey back to the basics.

Do you grapple with doctrines and theology? Are you unsure why your pastor does this or doesn’t do that? Have you ever just wondered “why”? Now is your chance to ask your questions! Scan the QR Code or click to submit.