As a denomination of interdependent and autonomous churches, we also work together for common purposes such as church planting, Christian higher education and seminary training, world missions, evangelism, fellowship, and other ministries that promote the fulfillment of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). The EFCA is a charter member of the National Association of Evangelicals.

What are the distinctives of the Evangelical Free Church?

The EFCA is inclusive not exclusive. Fellowship and active membership in the local Evangelical Free Church are based solely on one’s personal faith in Jesus Christ as Savior. Within the EFCA there is room beyond the EFCA Statement of Faith for legitimate differences in areas of evangelical doctrine.

The EFCA is evangelical not separatistic. While we have deep convictions based on the authority and inerrancy of God’s Word, we do not draw battle lines over minor points, nor do we make minor issues of doctrine a test of fellowship in the local church. We are evangelical and believe in separated living and personal holiness for the believer, but we are not separatistic.

The EFCA is ecumenical in spirit though not in structure. We believe in the spiritual unity of the church though not necessarily in structural union. We join with other Christians and like-minded denominations and organizations that share common goals and ministries to accomplish the Great Commandment and the Great Commission.

The EFCA believes in liberty with responsibility and accountability. We desire to preserve the great doctrine of grace and Christian liberty in Christ. But we also encourage and teach godly living and service under the control of the Holy Spirit, in obedience to God’s Word, and in harmony with God’s will for life as revealed in the Scriptures.

The EFCA believes in both the rational and relational dimensions of Christianity. We believe that sound Christian doctrine must be coupled with dynamic Christian experience. Experiencing God goes hand in hand with belief in God and the great doctrines of the faith.

The EFCA affirms the right of each local church to govern its own affairs. We are congregational in government and in ministry. While affirming strong spiritual leadership and structure in the local church, we hold that the highest human authority under God rests in the congregation.