WELS does not include the Shepherd of Hermas in the biblical canon. The work is recognized as an early Christian post-apostolic writing (2nd century CE) that reflects the theology and practices of the early church but is not apostolic Scripture. WELS strict confessional subscription includes the reception of the 27 New Testament books as the complete apostolic canon.

The Shepherd of Hermas, while important for understanding patristic Christianity and early Christian spirituality, is not binding for doctrine and is not part of the church's scriptural canon. WELS teaching distinguishes clearly between Scripture (the 66-book canon) and other valuable early Christian writings.