We’re glad you asked about the differences between the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS) and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod (LCMS). “Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” (Psa 133:1). Beginning in 1857, the ELS enjoyed fellowship with the LCMS for almost one hundred years. During that time, we shared a common faith. However, a change occurred within the LCMS that created serious differences between us.
In 1935, the LCMS began compromising its theology. It desired to establish fellowship with the doctrinally unsound American Lutheran Church. Just as “a little leaven leavens the whole lump” (1Co 5:6), the LCMS gradually drifted away from its solid foundation. It began to tolerate deviations from sound biblical teaching., something it had never done before. (Theodore Aaberg’s
Since that time, the LCMS has continued its gradual drift away from confessional Lutheranism. Many are confused by the difference between the synod’s official position, which can appear to be soundly Lutheran, and what is practiced in many congregation. Although there is one official LCMS, there are really two Missouri Synods existing side by side. Within the same church body one will find both the original Missouri Synod (“Old Missouri”) and what could be termed “New Missouri.”
If one were to judge by many of the writings of LCMS pastors and by conversations with LCMS pastors and laypeople, “Old Missouri” seems to be a dwindling minority that has little impact on the direction of the LCMS. “New Missouri” appears to be the majority, at least when viewing the direction the LCMS seems to be headed. To its credit, “Old Missouri” has never embraced nor tolerated any of the errors that began in 1935. The ELS has much in common with that part of the LCMS.
On the other hand, “New Missouri” has altered it beliefs in order to be more appealing ot he world. One encounters pastors and people in the “New Missouri” who, despite the official LCMS position, deny the inerrancy of Scripture, ignore the Lutheran Confessions, practice open communion, support the ordination of women, participate in unionistic services and deny that Christ is the only way to heaven. “New Missouri” bears little or no resemblance to confessional Lutheranism or the original LCMS. The ELS has little if anything, in common with “New Missouri.”
Sadly, because the “Old Missouri” and “New Missouri” are united in one synod, we cannot enjoy fellowship with that small part of the LCMS with which we may share a number of doctrinal concerns. That would constitute unionism and would be contrary to the Word of God.
Like that first generation of Lutherans involved in the Reformation, many in the LCMS find themselves in a difficult situation. They must choose between remaining loyal to a church even though it has drifted away from sound biblical teaching, or making the necessary sacrifices to remain faithful to the Holy Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions.