The main differences are in the understanding of the blessings of baptism. The Catholic Church sees Baptism as a means of dealing with sins that come before Baptism. This would pertain especially to original sin since most Catholics are baptized as infants. Catholics see Baptism as entirely removing original sin in such a way that the sinful nature that remains (concupiscence) is no longer sin. Sins that are committed after Baptism are addressed by other sacraments, such as penance.

Lutherans believe that Baptism removes all the guilt of original sin, but the sinful nature that remains is real sin. Lutherans place greater emphasis on the forward-looking nature of Baptism. Baptism is God's promise to us of forgiveness through Christ. This promise applies not only to sins committed before Baptism but to those committed later. If we fall into sin, we can look back to the promise we received in our Baptism.

Catholics also refer to an indelible mark or character received in Baptism. Lutherans believe that God's promise given in Baptism remains ever true, but we do not refer to an indelible mark on the baptized. We can forfeit our Baptism and our place in the church by unbelief.

Lutherans put greater emphasis on baptism as a means of creating faith.