Brett Meyer has left a new comment on your post "Speak Up":
This discussion brings up the nature of the (W)ELS doctrine concerning the Public Ministry of the Word (PMW). Clearly those in the office within the (W)ELS agree with the doctrine as it's taught and enforced (enforced is a strong word in the (W)ELS concerning doctrine, maybe encouraged or suggested would be better - have you read the essays in the (W)ELS Essay files?!).
(W)ELS teaches that they have the God given right to change what Christ instituted and restrict parts of the overall PMW responsibilities to one individual (male or female) and still call it a divine office instituted by Christ. They still insist that it's a divine office into which Christ Himself calls these people to serve. This is why they can so easily remove someone from the position. They have taken Christ's place. Certainly (W)ELS President Moldstad set a solid precedent when he wickedly schemed to have Pastor Preus removed from his active call. Less than a handful of churches protested so the churches that remain in fellowship with the (W)ELS agree that his Antichristian behavior was acceptable. I say, so far (W)ELS is getting less then what they have asked for. Why are you upset at the termination of this pastor? Or any pastor.
What are the reasons Scripture gives that allow the removal of the man that Christ calls to serve a congregation?
Bueller, Bueller....anyone?
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GJ - Many times they hate someone out of the call, and they wonder why the children of church workers are not signing up for their $100,000 college degrees. Ha.
WELS is dead, and the Amen! Corner is sure to follow.
Missouri loves to work with ELCA, too. That will make Missouri even more like ELCA, and not make ELCA more like Missouri.
They all agree on universal absolution - without the Word. Doctrinal agreement and fellowship always work together.
