LCMS vs WELS: What's the Difference Between the Missouri and Wisconsin Synods?

The Lutheran History Podcast: https://tlhp.buzzsprout.com/673655 We had to re-upload the video due to audio issues. Thanks to the people who pointed them out in the first version! The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) share a common confessional heritage, believe the Scriptures are the inspired Word of God, and subscribe to the Lutheran Confessions. So why aren't they in fellowship? In this conversation, I sit down with Pastor Ben Phelps, host of the Lutheran History Podcast, to explore both the history and theology behind the relationship between the two synods. We discuss where the LCMS and WELS stand together, the historical events that led to the suspension of fellowship, and the doctrinal questions that continue to be discussed today. Topics include: • The history of the Wisconsin Synod • The Synodical Conference and its legacy • Why fellowship between the LCMS and WELS was suspended • Prayer fellowship and what it means in practice • Closed Communion • Church and ministry • The role of women in the congregation • Current fellowship discussions between the LCMS and WELS Our goal is not to score points or caricature one another, but to understand one another accurately and let Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions guide the conversation. If you've ever wondered why two conservative Lutheran church bodies that agree on so much remain separate, this discussion will help explain the history, theology, and the issues still being considered today. If you enjoyed this conversation, please like the video, subscribe to the channel, and share it with someone who has asked this question. #LCMS #WELS #Lutheran #ConfessionalLutheran #ChurchHistory #Theology #Christianity https://youhaveaplace.com #lutheran #sermon #Christian #grace 00:00 Introduction 01:44 Brief History of WELS 06:58 The Break Between WELS and LCMS 14:10 Talks between LCMS and WELS 19:50 The Differences: Prayer Fellowship 28:10 The Differences: The Ministry 32:46 The Differences: Women in the Church