This very large congregation with deep historical roots in south Minneapolis offers numerous activities for members, ranging from youth programs to musical groups for people of all ages. But the church also does extensive outreach to the surrounding neighborhood, supporting community service projects from Habitat to Humanity to emergency food relief. In addition to its traditional Lutheranism, the church utilizes Rick Warren's "purpose-driven" approach to outreach, which led the church to launch Jacob's Well and Spirit Garage, which reach out to the "unchurched" in south Minneapolis.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church maintains its longstanding traditions—for instance, holding a yearly lutefisk festival organized by the church's youth—while also engaging with the modern world through community service.