Surveying the current state of affairs that we as Lutherans in America face, it is not a pretty picture. Those of us who consider ourselves Confessional Lutherans have many challenges ahead of us, regardless of which synod we make our home in. It is easy for us to look out onto the evangelical landscape of America and criticize that which we see. Pop psychology, vacuous forms of worship, and the obliteration of the gospel of grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone dominate the church. Yes, all of these accusations of American Christianity are true. However, they are now true of us, as well. Whether LCMS, WELS, or ELS, the effects of American Christianity have invaded our synods and have devastated all that is true of our beloved Lutheran Confessions, both in doctrine and in practice. In my own synod, the WELS, the effects of the church growth movement have been particularly insidious. We are only now just starting to combat it.
In order for us to move forward, however, we must also look backward, and see what events in our history have led to the current climate.
In order for us to move forward, however, we must also look backward, and see what events in our history have led to the current climate.
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