… what would happen if we really would make the saving of souls the ultimate purpose, the end and aim of our joint work?
… what an influence it will be on our dear congregations and their pastors and on their relationship toward one another if all acknowledge the saving of souls as the end and aim of our joint work! They will all pull, as peacefully as they do zealously, on the same yoke. Even though all kinds of strife-causing questions might arise – yet the question: “Which course is best for the salvation of souls?” will quickly give the right solution. … Then our dear congregations will say to one another, as Abraham said to Lot: “Let there be not strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdsmen and thy herdsmen; for we are brethren …” (Gen. 13:8f.). Whatever will win the most souls for Christ, that would decide between us. …
– C.F.W. Walther (First President of the LCMS)