In the LCMS these canonical requirements are summed up most brightly and clearly in the constitution: this synod is bound to the Word of God and the Lutheran Confessions. Period. Beyond that, all is advice. But what do we mean when we put one under orders in terms of evangelical energy, the ordering of the church's life by the Holy Gospel? We say: "We tie you to the cross and the church to your back. We pray for you; we lay hands on you for a gift of grace to be faithful and courageous in your service to that God who called you to be a servant, a servant in the style of Jesus Christ. Endure suffering as a faithful soldier. Be a man of prayer. Tend your people." —Dr. Kenneth Korby, The Pastoral Office and the Priesthood of Believers, Lord Jesus Christ, Will You Not Stay? p. 364, 365
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