Biblical Interpretation in 20th Century Lutheranism

Abstract

In this lecture, Professor John F. Brug examines the decline of biblical inerrancy within 20th-century American Lutheranism. He begins by contrasting the confessional revival of the 19th century, led by figures like C.F.W. Walther, with the theological erosion of the 20th century, particularly in the ELCA and LCMS. Brug outlines the doctrines of inspiration and inerrancy, emphasizing their scriptural basis and historical acceptance. He traces the infiltration of historical-critical methods into American Lutheran seminaries, detailing the controversies that led to the formation of Seminex and the ELCA’s rejection of inerrancy. The essay critiques ELCA’s gospel-reductionist theology and its popularization of critical views among laity. Brug concludes with lessons for confessional Lutherans, urging doctrinal clarity, vigilance against false teaching, and a return to Scripture as the sole source of doctrine. He calls for faithful teaching, devotional use of the Word, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).