Pietists Cannot Discuss Doctrine

Three distinguishing characteristics of Pietism are:

1. The cell group or conventicle. 
2. Doctrinal indifference, with an emphasis on works-righteousness.
3. Shunning.

The Synodical Conference began in Pietism, as Walther's history shows - not that the LCMS would ever admit the facts. Wisconsin is more honest, because they do not have a mountain of historical felonies to cover up. WELS is catching up. In the 19th century, it was Pietism versus Rationalism, so the "Old Lutherans" were Pietists. The SynConference Old Lutherans called the Muhlenberg Lutherans (ULCA eventually) the Mild Lutherans. In reality, Stephan studied at the same school as the founder of the Muhlenberg tradition - Halle University.

Pietists consider orthodoxy to be legalism, and they despise the Confessions. However, they esteem their own holiness and measure everything according to works.

When arguing doctrine with a Pietist, he will say:

• You have a small church, so you are wrong. 
• You are not in my immaculate synod, so you are wrong. 
• You have criticized our immaculate synod, so you have broken fellowship with us. 
• My grandfather was so-and-so; therefore, I am right.

Obviously, Pietists favor the ad hominem or personal attack. They have nothing left in their modest arsenal. They will say, "You belonged to several synods" unless someone mentions the total synods of Al Barry or Rolf Preus. They will complain, "You went to Notre Dame" without acknowledging their dishonest promotion of the pope. They have no qualms about making up information and using their inventions in their personal attacks.

Notice how they do the work of their Father Below in the synod. They shun anyone who disagrees with their false doctrine and urge others to do the same. If someone fails to participate in the shun-fun, that person is shunned until he is docile and compliant again. Bishop Stephan practiced this dictatorial policy, which makes perfect sense to the Pietists. They are perfect, so one must avoid contact with the impure.

Pietists emphasize a false purity of the person, but not purity of doctrine. An emphasis on doctrine makes them hysterical, and their defense is, "You are unclean. Touch not Lord's anointed!"