Lutherans take their theology pretty seriously and they hold each other accountable.
As in all denominations, there are small fringes on each side and (SADLY) there can be absurd politics played in power struggles (usually with the best of intentions but the worst of actions). It happens in many congregations and it happens in all denominations. Sometimes these things actually rip congregations and denominations apart (ironcially, both extremes usually consider that a victory, lol).
The LCMS is a very conservative church body - not just in theology (where they are probably the most united large Protestant denomination in the USA) but in practice and policy (where they often squabble endlessly - often over issues that make everyone outside the LCMS and 90% of those inside wonder what in the world is the problem). Fortunately, this, too, seems to be on the fringes and the great majority of congregations are entirely unimpacted by it. For being a large, fairly old church body which such strong convictions and where accountability is so high, it is amazing that it's pretty much only found at the extreme edges.
Every three years, there is a denomination wide convention. EVERY congregation has an EQUAL vote (no matter how large or small) to elect a pastoral and a lay delegate (they are in EQUAL numbers at EVERY convention). Nothing could be more democratic or embracing. Everything but the Bible and the historic Lutheran Confessions is debatable. In the last one, Dr. Kieschnick was overwhelmingly re-elected (again). In fact, the convention was fairly solidly one of affirmation for the LCMS.
I understand that after every US presidential election, there are a few hundred Americans who take literally the "Love it or leave it" mentality - and they do leave (Costa Rica seems to be the "in" place to go to these days). They usually drift back.... I think it was Lincoln who said, "You can't please all of the people all of the time." I recall, not even Jesus could do that, LOL. That these conservative, passionate LCMS people - who embrace accountability so firmly - are so united and live together so well (as the last Convention last summer revealed once again) and have done so with no significant splits in nearly 200 years speaks well, I think. But those small minorities on the fringes will kick and complain and probably never be happy - and maybe that's good. I grew up in a denomination with a "whatever" attitude and a tiny fringe ended up taking it over and.... well, not a good thing, not at all. A lively, open debate is often a good thing. Conservative Lutherans are KNOWN for that - good or bad or whatever, LOL.
MY perspective.
Some will passionately disagree (welcome to community - ANY community - where two or three or more are gathered together).
PAX
- Josiah
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