Lutheran theology does not include the Shepherd of Hermas in the biblical canon. The work is recognized as an important early Christian writing (mid-2nd century) that reflects the faith and practice of the early church, but it is not apostolic Scripture. Luther and the Lutheran tradition distinguished between apostolic writings (the 27 New Testament books) and patristic writings (including the Shepherd of Hermas), which are valuable for historical and devotional purposes but not canonical.

The Shepherd of Hermas may be read and studied for its theological insights into early Christian life, but it is not binding for doctrine and is not part of the scriptural canon.