Why I Left the Missouri Synod

Abstract

In this serialized account published in Lutheran News (1963–1964), Dr. Siegbert W. Becker explains his departure from the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod after nearly five decades of membership and service. Becker details his theological concerns, particularly the denial of verbal inspiration and biblical inerrancy by seminary professor Dr. Martin Scharlemann. He chronicles repeated attempts to address these issues through official channels, including correspondence with Synod presidents, seminary officials, and boards of control. Despite efforts to meet and discuss doctrinal differences, Becker encountered resistance, misrepresentation, and institutional inaction. He argues that the Synod’s leadership failed to discipline false teaching and instead shielded Scharlemann while undermining critics. Becker concludes that the Missouri Synod had become doctrinally compromised and that continued fellowship was no longer tenable. His testimony serves as a call to uphold scriptural authority and confessional integrity. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)