The Seminary's Unchanging Foundation in a Changing World: Sola Scriptura

Abstract

This essay affirms Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary’s unwavering commitment to sola scriptura as the cornerstone of its mission. Wicke demonstrates that Scripture—verbally inspired, inerrant, and authoritative in all matters of doctrine, faith, and life—remains the sole norm for teaching and practice. Drawing on historic Lutheran confessions, faculty writings, and seminary policies, the paper underscores the necessity of rigorous biblical study in original languages and warns against reliance on human reason or unscriptural sources. Wicke contrasts this stance with trends in broader Lutheranism and mainline Protestantism, critiquing concessions to historical-critical methods and doctrinal compromise. Practical implications include curriculum design, pastoral formation, and the seminary’s role in preparing ministers who lead congregations to Christ through the Word alone. The essay concludes with an appeal to preserve this heritage for future generations, linking sola scriptura inseparably with sola gratia and sola fide. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT‑4)