Fellowship Then and Now

Abstract

This doctrinal study, prepared by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s Commission on Doctrinal Matters, addresses the impasse in intersynodical discussions on church fellowship, particularly with the Missouri Synod. It contrasts two positions: WELS’s historic unit concept of fellowship—applying the same scriptural principles to all expressions of faith (e.g., prayer, worship, communion)—and Missouri’s situational approach, which allows joint prayer under certain conditions. Through historical analysis, the document demonstrates that WELS’s position aligns with the consistent practice and teaching of the Synodical Conference, Missouri Synod theologians, and Lutheran fathers, including Luther. It traces doctrinal developments from early free conferences to the election controversy, and critiques Missouri’s evolving practices in joint prayer, mission cooperation, and civic worship. The study concludes that WELS’s stance is not merely traditional but scripturally mandated, reaffirming the need for doctrinal clarity and consistency in all expressions of Christian fellowship. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)