A Symbol of the Gospel: The Luther Rose
The Lutheran rose (or Luther Seal) is a recognizable symbol of the Lutheran Reformation. It was designed by Martin Luther himself and first appeared on the title page of his writings in 1520. This black and white rendering is what first appeared, but Luther described the seal with its colors to teach the gospel. Consider Luther’s description below:
First, there is a black cross in a heart that remains its natural color. This is to remind me that it is faith in the Crucified One that saves us. Anyone who believes from the heart will be justified (Romans 10:10). It is a black cross, which mortifies and causes pain, but it leaves the heart its natural color. It doesn’t destroy nature, that is to say, it does not kill us but keeps us alive, for the just shall live by faith in the Crucified One (Romans 1:17).
The heart should stand in the middle of a white rose. This is to show that faith gives joy, comfort, and peace—it puts the believer into a white, joyous rose. Faith does not give peace and joy like the world gives (John 14:27). This is why the rose must be white, not red. White is the color of the spirits and angels (cf. Matthew 28:3; John 20:12).
This rose should stand in a sky-blue field, symbolizing that a joyful spirit and faith is a beginning of heavenly, future joy, which begins now, but is grasped in hope, not yet fully revealed.
Around the field of blue is a golden ring to symbolize that blessedness in heaven lasts forever and has no end. Heavenly blessedness is exquisite, beyond all joy and better than any possessions, just as gold is the most valuable and precious metal.
As we consider again the Lutheran Reformation, we are reminded what it was really about—not a rejection of the Church, but a reform to the truths of God’s Word and the historic teaching of the Christian church. As we center ourselves on God’s Word, we always discover one reality: the death and resurrection of Christ means life for sinners who believe in Him!
That’s good news, my friend!
If you are uncertain as to your salvation, please reach out to us or a Bible-believing church in your area to hear the promise of Christ—given for you.
At Emmanuel, we are beginning a sermon series on the 5 Solas of the Reformation beginning on Reformation Sunday, October 25, 2026. Join us at Rock Creek Elementary School (3800 NW Abilene Rd, Ankeny, IA).
Coffee fellowship is at 9:30am followed by the Divine Service at 10am.
