What is an IFCA International Church?

Local churches have been in existence since the time of Christ. Groups of believers gathered together to form local congregations. Through the years some churches have identified with various denominational groups, However, there have been independent churches during each period of church history. Such churches continue to flourish throughout many parts of the world today, effectively ministering God's Word.

What are the distintives of an independent, fundamental church? Here are our biblical criteria for such a church.

I. A Church That is Independent

The churches established by the first century apostles of Christ began as independent churches. They were free from outside control over the affairs of the local church. Each local church was a self-governing body, chose its own officers (Acts 6:1-6), a nd exercised its own discipline (1 Corinthians 5:13). Internal problems were handled by the individual congregation (1 Corinthians 6:1-5). Preservation of pure doctrine was the responsibility of the local assembly (1 Timothy 3:15, Revelation 2:14-16).

Following this pattern, today's independent church depends upon the Holy Spirit's direction (Acts 13:1-3), chooses its own name, government, and programs. It is free to call its own pastor and invite into the pulpit any speakers it deems sound in the fai th.

Another important characteristic is the liberty enjoyed in the manner of missionary support. Independent churches are free to seek God's direction in supporting those ministries they find acceptable. The primary aim of all missionary and evangelistic ef fort is personal salvation and discipleship through Christ.

The independence of a church simply enhances its dependence upon the Lord. Each church looks to Him for the provision of its every need. This encourages prayers, faith and spiritual growth among its members.

An independent church is not only self-governing, it is also self-supporting through the free-will offerings of its constituents (1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8).

II. A Church That is Fundamental

A fundamental church is one that stands for the historic fundamental of the faith, upholding biblical authority versus human theories. To be fundamental means to be believe in and proclaim those beliefs such as: