Issues, Etc. Lutheranism and Tradition – Pr. Hans Fiene, 12/3/25 (3372)
Dec 3, 2025
Pr. Hans Fiene, Pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church and creator of Lutheran Satire, dives into the role of tradition in Lutheranism. He explains how traditions can be helpful but must align with Scripture. Using examples like 'Silent Night,' he distinguishes good traditions from harmful ones, warning that time alone doesn't validate them. Fiene critiques historical church practices and highlights how Jesus judged traditions. He emphasizes that traditions should always reinforce a Christ-centered perspective, shedding light on their significance in theological discussions.
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How Traditions Form Over Time
- Tradition can be defined as teaching or practice plus time turning novelty into custom.
- Over time practices move from new to standard to tradition even if someone originally invented them.
A Pastor's Candlelit Christmas Eve
- Hans Feeney describes the emotional attachment to lighting real candles and singing Silent Night.
- He even joked he'd 'go to jail' before giving up that Christmas Eve tradition.
Age Alone Doesn't Make It Right
- Time alone does not justify a tradition; its substance matters.
- A practice maintained for centuries can still conflict with Scripture and ought to be rejected.
