Theology Q&A Q&A: What do Lutherans teach about prayer? What does it mean to be above reproach? Can a pastor who has been disqualified be restored? More.
Feb 26, 2026
They unpack Lutheran teaching on prayer and the role of written and memorized prayers. They examine what "above reproach" means for pastors and when removal from office may remain despite repentance. They discuss restoration after pre-conversion sins and why many Christians misunderstand faith. They critique Messianic claims and warn against spiritual manipulation and private revelations.
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What Above Reproach Really Means For Pastors
- Above reproach for pastors targets public, scandalous, or doctrinal failings rather than absolute sinless perfection.
- Wolfmueller and Packer cite Luther: above reproach means orthodox teaching and outward life that doesn't scandalize outsiders.
Spectrum Of Sin And Standards For Judgment
- Sin exists on a spectrum: inward thoughts to public crimes, with legal, cultural, and Christian standards each applying differently.
- Wolfmueller sketches a scale (anger → murder) and says the church holds pastors to stricter expectations than mere legality or culture.
Repentance Restores Fellowship Not Office Automatically
- Repentance restores fellowship but doesn't automatically restore someone to pastoral office; the office has extra eligibility standards.
- Both pastors stress rejoicing in forgiveness while accepting temporal consequences and case-by-case district oversight for reinstatement decisions.