Basic Requirements for Receiving an Affirmation of Faith

Abstract

Abstract Roland Zimmermann’s essay, presented to the North Metro Conference in 1984, outlines pastoral guidelines for receiving individuals into WELS congregations via affirmation of faith. Recognizing doctrinal diversity among Lutheran bodies, Zimmermann emphasizes the need for careful spiritual exploration and instruction. He advocates assuming the presence of doctrinal error and using Luther’s Small Catechism as a framework for evaluating beliefs on Scripture, salvation, fellowship, and sanctification. The essay stresses the importance of personal interviews, doctrinal clarity, and pastoral care, while acknowledging that even thorough instruction may not reveal all theological misunderstandings. Through examples and suggested questions, Zimmermann encourages pastors to lead prospective members to deeper understanding of God’s grace, trusting the Holy Spirit to work through the Word. The goal is not rigid requirements, but faithful teaching and discernment that bless both the individual and the congregation. Abstract prepared with the assistance of Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).