The Ministry of the Keys – Its Possessors

Abstract

Prof. William G. Zell’s essay, delivered at the 1965 WELS Northwestern College Convention, emphasizes the individual Christian’s role in the Ministry of the Keys. Rooted in the doctrine of the priesthood of all believers, Zell asserts that each believer is a “royal priest” entrusted with the authority to forgive and retain sins through the Gospel. He explores the implications of this calling in the home, congregation, and community, urging Christians to actively proclaim Christ’s forgiveness. Zell warns against complacency and challenges laypeople to embrace their responsibility, noting that the public ministry is an extension of individual witness. He concludes that the vitality of the Church depends on each believer’s faithful use of the Keys, and that the Synod’s future hinges on its members’ willingness to speak the Gospel boldly. Abstract prepared with the assistance of Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).