Take Heed unto the Doctrine

Abstract

In this series of essays delivered at the 1959 LCMS convention, Paul M. Bretscher explores the nature, source, content, and communication of Christian doctrine. He affirms that doctrine is not merely abstract teaching but the living truth of God’s Word, centered in Jesus Christ and revealed in Scripture. Bretscher emphasizes the unity and purity of doctrine, warning against false teachings and doctrinal indifference. He traces the biblical concern for sound doctrine from the Old Testament through the New Testament apostles, highlighting its transformative power and centrality in the life of the Church. The essays defend the principle of “Scripture alone” as the sole source of divine doctrine and uphold the Lutheran Confessions as faithful expositions of biblical truth. Bretscher calls for faithful teaching, preaching, and transmission of doctrine across generations, urging the Church to remain vigilant in preserving and proclaiming the gospel of justification by faith. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)