Yes, doctrine does matter. But it is sufficient to agree concerning teaching of the gospel and administration of the sacraments. Some Lutherans have forgotten this. Did not the CLC split with WELS/ELS over an insurance company? Isn't the relationship between WELS and ELS stressed because the WELS has made doctrinal statements on church and ministry that go beyond the Book of Concord and is pushing ELS to agree with them? Doesn't WELS make new binding doctrinal statements without first seeking the universal consent of the churches of Augsburg confession?
Historically, Anglicans have been much more willing to paper over internal differences than Lutherans. The failure of this policy can be shown by the thousands of denominations spawned by this mother church.
Last edited by speratus; Thu Nov 03, 200510:03 AM.
