It seems to me that often when Lutherans discuss our faith we give the impression that if you are conservative and smart, you will be Lutheran. We mock the overly rational ones who think themselves intelligent when they rip apart the integrity of the scriptures and yet still seek to still proclaim what they see as its core. We offer up similar mockery for those who distrust all science and reason quickly. We dismiss them as simple Biblicists.
Lutheranism (especially confessional Lutheranism) is often portrayed by the proponents of such as conservative Christianity for the smart Christian. But I would argue with this sad characterization. Lutheranism is not just for those who have a certain IQ. It is not only for those with the time and ability to soak in large amounts of historical information and digest much intricate theology. It is not just for those who like to show off all that knowledge.
We value education. We value educated clergy. We do think logic, reason, and philosophy can have their place in the service of the Gospel. But Lutheranism is not for the smart.
It is for the wise. Those made wise by the Spirit. Wise in the way of the fear of the Lord. Wise is the way of recognizing their sin. Wise in the way of seeing their Savior in Jesus. Wise in the way of understanding the ways that their salvation is delivered to them. Lutheranism is for the wise.
You will never become a Lutheran by becoming more intelligent. Only if the Spirit makes you wise through the Word. Only then will you know Jesus and his life. And that is what being Lutheran is really about.
