Was the Missouri Synod Charge of Unionism in the Wisconsin Synod in the 1860's Completely Justifiable on the Basis of Historical Evidence?

Abstract

David Clark’s 1972 church history thesis examines the Missouri Synod’s accusations of unionism against the Wisconsin Synod during the 1860s. Drawing heavily from J.P. Koehler’s History of the Wisconsin Synod, Clark evaluates whether these charges were historically justified. He explores the Wisconsin Synod’s early ties to European mission societies, particularly the Prussian Langenberger Verein, which sent pastors with mixed confessional backgrounds. While acknowledging instances of unionistic practice and financial dependence, Clark argues that the Wisconsin Synod maintained doctrinal integrity and gradually matured into a confessional Lutheran body. He highlights internal reforms, disciplinary actions against unorthodox pastors, and the eventual severing of ties with unionistic societies. Clark concludes that while the Missouri Synod’s criticisms were not entirely unfounded, they were exaggerated and lacked evangelical understanding of Wisconsin’s historical context and developmental challenges. —Abstract by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)