There are a number of theological differences in the major Lutheran groups. This page is intended to show some examples that contrast the differences between the two groups. I approach this in the same way as when evaluating hymnals.
This topic is approached with Christian care and concern for those who were responsible for both the production and promotion of the works, as well as those who would be subject to the influence of the doctrine contained therein i.e. the person in the pew. The following statements extracted from the "Report and Recommendations of the Special Hymnal Review Committee" (1979) should guide the reader by revealing the basic intentions of the author.
"The [Synodical] Handbook further states (Bylaw 11.157):
b. The reviewer's primary concern is that items submitted to him be in agreement in their doctrinal content with the Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions.
c. The reviewer shall also be concerned that the items submitted to him do not contain statements that are inadequate, misleading, ambiguous, or lacking in doctrinal clarity.
d. The reviewer shall further be concerned that resolutions of the Synod be honored and upheld and that positions deviating from the doctrinal resolutions of the Synod be clearly identified as such.
It is not a pleasant task to point out aberrations and ambiguities in materials gathered together by fellow Christians. We pray that those who were a part of the project do not receive our report as a judgment against them."
Christmas Letters |
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LCMS, 1997 |
ELCA, 1997 |
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December 8, 1997 A Christmas message from Dr. A. L. Barry, president of The LutheranChurch--Missouri Synod. Fear not! For, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:10-11). These words of the angels on the first Christmas echo down through the ages for they are the words of Almighty God announcing that His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, had entered into this world, took on our flesh and blood, and was now lying as the Babe of Bethlehem. The Lord of all creation was born of a woman, the Virgin Mary. God became man and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth. What a joyous time of the year this is for all Christians. As we look out across our world we see so much that causes us deep distress and concern Violence, anger, hate, discord, unrest, injustice, pain, suffering, death - all are the result of the sin that entered into the world through the one man, Adam. But thanks be to God for His mercy that through the one man, Jesus, all the wrath and punishment that our sin deserves was poured out on Him. Therefore, fear not! Your savior has come into the world. Fear not, your God knows and cares for you. Fear not, the Lord of creation has taken on human flesh and blood and so understands completely the fear, worry, anxiety and troubles of this life. Fear not, for your Savior has forgiven you. Fear not, for He has gone on before you to prepare a place for you in heaven for all eternity. May you be filled with the joy and wonder expressed by Martin Luther who composed this verse for a Christmas hymn: "My heart for very joy now leaps. "Glory to God in higest heaven, Dr. A. L. Barry |
December 4, 1997 H. GEORGE ANDERSON'S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE "Peace on earth" must become more than the song of angels. It must become the everyday motto of human beings who make decisions and choose leaders. The Christmas story tells of one who came so that all of us might live in peace. Yet Jesus of Nazareth found few who dared to follow his example. He became a center of controversy and ultimately gave his life for God's mission of peace. It is significant that we talk about "declaring war" but we never speak of "declaring peace." Deep down we know that peace is more than just talk; it takes work. Sometimes it takes courage -- even sacrifice. This Christmas season can be a time to ask ourselves how we can "make peace" instead of just talking about it. The Rev. H. George Anderson |
Disclaimer: Information an this page is for entertainment informational and instructional purposes only and is not to be construed as the doctrinal position of the author or of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. Consult your Bible (Greek and Hebrew preferred, but the NASB or NKJ is acceptable) and the Book of Concord. This information has not been approved by the LCMS or ELCA. Please notify the compiler if there are any verifiable inaccuracies presented.
Comments or suggestions: (please no spamm or other time + bandwidth-wasting baloney!)
Last revised December 8, 1997