To Confirm Synodical Position Concerning Special Creation, Young Earth, and Global Flood

WHEREAS, It has been over 90 years since the Synod has formally stated its position concerning special creation, a young Earth, and a global flood; and

WHEREAS, The Society of Creation has, in our view, correctly stated the truth in its Biblical Subscription which is as follows: In accordance with LCMS convention resolution 2004 Res. 2- 08A, Luther’s Small Catechism with Explanation, Question 97 [CPH, 1986, p. 106], and A Brief Statement (Adopted 1932, St. Louis: CPH), all members subscribe to the following statement of their position on creation: First, that God created by His power, as described in Genesis 1 and 2, motivated by His love and grace, rather than using evolution as the vehicle of creation. Second, that God created mankind in His image, giving them the ability to respond to Him in worship and service. As a result mankind has authority to subdue the earth, which is neither a license to destroy or pollute nor a prohibition against any changing of the landscape. This authority has been affected by the fall into sin (Genesis 3). Third, that each member of the Trinity was involved in creation, as indicated in Gen. 1:1–3. Fourth, that creation took place in six twenty-four-hour days with a day reckoned in accordance with today’s time. Fifth, that Adam and Eve were real, historical human beings and that the fall into sin was a real, historical event. Sixth, that creation occurred in the relatively recent past, thousands of years ago rather than millions or billions of years ago (Society of Creation, www.society of creation.org/about/).

therefore be it

Resolved, That the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) be tasked with updating the position of the LCMS concerning special creation, young Earth, and a global flood;

and be it further

Resolved, That the CTCR not be afraid to contradict the consensus of secular scientism during the updating of its position statement; and be it finally

Resolved, That the CTCR and Synod publicize and educate the member districts, congregations, and individual members as to the content, significance, and impact of the updated position statement.