Doctrinal Brief: "Forms Of Ministry"

Abstract

John Brug’s doctrinal brief “Forms of Ministry” clarifies the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s (WELS) use of the term “forms of ministry,” emphasizing both the unity and diversity within the public ministry of the Gospel. Brug explains that while Christ instituted one ministry—the proclamation of the Gospel—the church has evangelical freedom to establish various forms of this ministry, such as pastors, teachers, and staff ministers. These forms differ in scope and function but share the same divine origin and authority. Brug compares this flexibility to the biblical institution of government, which allows for different structures while remaining divinely ordained. He also explores historical and scriptural precedents for diverse ministry roles, cautioning against terminology that implies hierarchy or diminishes the divine nature of non-pastoral offices. Ultimately, Brug defends the term “forms of ministry” as the best available expression of both the unity and variety within the church’s Gospel work. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)