Difference - national church vs. free church

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What is actually the difference between the national church or people's church and a free church?

Both the mainstream churches and the free churches are described in more detail below, thus highlighting the differences.

People's church

In earlier times in Germany, on the occasion of the Peace of Augsburg in 1555, the sovereigns decided which faith their subjects were to adopt. From the 18th century onwards, the Roman Catholic King of Bavaria was even the bishop of the Protestant church in Bavaria.

The national church consists of the Roman Catholic and Protestant churches.

Regional churches are represented by the Protestant churches of the respective federal states. There are therefore 20 Protestant regional churches.

The national churches are primarily financed by state-imposed church tax, collections and donations. Staff are paid from the church tax, while income from collections and donations is earmarked for specific purposes.

This means that Germany has the Roman Catholic Church and 20 Protestant regional churches, among which the faithful are divided.
According to statistics from 2022, 20.9 million people belong to the Roman Catholic Church and 19.2 million to the Protestant Church.
In the same year, 522,821 people left the Roman Catholic Church and 380,000 left the Protestant Church.

Free churches

In contrast to the state (regional) churches, free churches are financed by their members and their donations, are based on the Protestant faith and have different emphases on which to base their faith and preaching.

There are around 40 different free churches in Germany. Statistically, as at 31.12.2022, the free churches in Germany grouped together in the BEFG (Federation of Evangelical Free Churches) had 73,878 members, of which 1,918 people left the free churches.

The reason for the emergence of free churches lies in the so-called confessional emergency, the subjective deviation from the principles of faith. Free churches also implement the clear separation of church and state.

The main reason for this is apparently that they do not see salvation in belonging to one of the two state churches. One does not become a member of the respective church to which the parents belong at birth through baptism, but should make a conscious decision for this or that denomination independently.

The Roman Catholic Church continues to regard even those who have left as its members, as they have irrevocably become members through baptism.

Free churches operate according to the New Testament and the form of church described therein, according to which, according to the Acts 5, 29 should obey God more than people. This also contradicts the church tax levied by the state. The biblical tithe is invoked, according to Deuteronomy 15:22which is usually cited as the basis for measuring the gifts. Others, on the other hand, tend to stick to 2 Corinthians 9:7according to which everyone gives as his heart dictates.

This takes the wind out of the sails of the question of how much should be given as a tithe, based on net or gross, and the popular counter-question of what the blessing should be based on, which is of course aimed at gross.

From a biblical perspective, it is crucial to recognize Jesus' sacrificial death as the fulfilment of the entire Mosaic Law, including the payment of tithes.

It goes without saying that the churches have to finance themselves, but on a voluntary basis. Those who can give a lot and are willing to do so therefore support with larger donations, those who can only spare a few financial resources with smaller donations.

Alignments

The following data is taken from the German Statistics Portal and covers the period from 2010 to 2024. No claim is made to completeness or timeliness.

The order in which the free churches are listed here is based on the available membership figures and does not constitute a ranking.

New Apostolic Church (NAK)

The New Apostolic Church had 311,124 members in 2022.

The New Apostolic Church is a Christian denomination that developed from the Catholic Apostolic movement in the 19th century. It is known for its emphasis on apostles as central spiritual leaders and sees itself as a successor to the early church.

Characteristics of faith:

• Central belief: The focus is on Jesus Christ and the return of Christ is expected. The NAC believes in the preparation of believers for this event.
• Sacraments: The Church recognizes three sacraments: Holy Baptism with water, Holy Communion and Holy Sealing (receiving the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by an apostle).
• Apostleship: The church is led by apostles, who are seen as mediators between God and the faithful. They have the task of administering the sacraments and preparing the faithful for the return of Christ.
• Church life: Church services are central and include sermons, prayers and communion. The focus is on an active life of faith, love for one's neighbor and personal pastoral care.

Organization

The New Apostolic Church is organized hierarchically, with chief apostles at the top who watch over the faith community worldwide.

The NAC values fellowship, music and strong social commitment. Critics occasionally criticize the strongly hierarchical structure and the exclusive claim to truth, while members appreciate the personal commitment to faith and the clear goal orientation.

Jehovah's Witnesses

The Jehovah's Witnessess are listed with 178,000 members in 2024.

The Jehovah's Witnesses are a Christian denomination that originated in the USA in the 19th century. It was founded by Charles Taze Russell and is active worldwide today. The community is known for its missionary activities, Bible studies and strict interpretation of the Bible.

Characteristics of faith

• Central belief: The name "Jehovah" is emphasized as God's proper name. The focus is on the worship of God and the proclamation of his kingdom.
• Bible-centeredness: The Bible is regarded as the highest authority. Jehovah's Witnesses use the "New World Translation" of the Holy Scriptures.
• Eschatology: They expect God to intervene soon in Armageddon, the end of the world, and the establishment of a paradise on earth.
• Rejection of traditions: Holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as political activities such as voting or military service, are rejected because they are considered unbiblical.
• Chosen One: Believe that only 144,000 people will go to heaven.
• Denial of the Trinity.
• Strict rejection secular institutions, such as politics or the military.
• Refusal of blood transfusions for reasons of faith.

Organization

• Assemblies: Church services take place in so-called "Kingdom Halls" and are characterized by Bible study, sermons and communal prayer.
• Mission: Door-to-door mission and the distribution of the magazines "The Watchtower" and "Awake!" are central activities.
• Structure: The community is organized in a strict hierarchy, with the governing body in New York as the supreme body.

Distribution and focus

The Jehovah's Witnesses have over 8 million members worldwide. They attach great importance to a moral life and community. Critics criticize the rules as isolating, while members value devotion and a strong focus on matters of faith.

BEFG - Federation of Evangelical Free Churches (Baptists)

In the BEFG a number of free churches have joined together, with a total of 73,878 members in 2022.

The Baptists are an evangelical free church that developed from the Anabaptist movement in England in the 17th century. Their name is derived from the Greek word for "baptize" and refers to baptism by faith, a central feature of their doctrine.

Characteristics of faith

• Baptism: Baptism is performed exclusively on people of age who consciously profess their faith (baptism of faith) and is carried out by complete immersion.
• Bible-centeredness: The Bible is regarded as the sole basis of faith and the highest authority.
• Freedom of belief: Every person is responsible for their own faith, without coercion or state influence.
• Priesthood of all believers: There is no hierarchical priesthood; all members can actively participate in church life.

Organization

• Autonomy of the municipalities: Each congregation is independent and makes its own decisions on matters of faith and administration.
• Church services: They include sermons, communal prayer and singing, often with modern music.
• Mission: Baptists are committed to spreading the gospel, social work and humanitarian projects.

Distribution and focus

The Baptists are spread worldwide, with around 50 million members. They attach great importance to a simple and active life of faith that is oriented towards the Bible. Their focus on personal responsibility and community is appreciated, while their emphatically biblical stance is sometimes critically questioned.

BFP - Federation of Pentecostal Free Churches

The Pentecostal churches will have 64,800 members in 2022.

The Pentecostals (also Pentecostal movement are a Christian denomination that emerged from revivalist movements in the USA at the beginning of the 20th century. Their name refers to the biblical event of Pentecost, when the disciples of Jesus received the Holy Spirit.

Characteristics of faith

• Holy Spirit: At the center is the experience of the Holy Spirit, which is often expressed through spiritual gifts such as speaking in tongues, prophecy and healing.
• Bible: The Bible is regarded as the infallible word of God and the highest authority.
• Salvation: Faith in Jesus Christ, personal repentance and a life of sanctification are decisive for salvation.
• Baptismal understanding: Water baptism (usually by immersion) is practiced, supplemented by the baptism of the Spirit, which is regarded as a sign of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
• Speaking in tongues: Speaking in tongues, speaking in foreign languages, is cultivated and in some cases actively encouraged, as well as being seen as a mark of quality for the faith of the person concerned. The topic is here in more detail.

Organization

• Church services: They are lively and emotional, characterized by free prayer, praise and often spontaneous participation by the congregation.
• Mission: Evangelism and missionary work have a high priority, both locally and globally.
• Structure: Pentecostal churches are mostly organized autonomously, although larger associations such as the "Assemblies of God" do exist.

Distribution and focus

The Pentecostal movement has around 600 million followers worldwide and is one of the fastest growing Christian movements. It is valued for its dynamism and emphasis on personal experiences of God, while some are critical of its emotionalism and teachings.

Mormons - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS)

In 2022, there should be 39,748 members in Germany.

The Mormonsofficially as Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) are a Christian denomination that was founded by Joseph Smith in the USA in 1830. They see themselves as the restoration of the original Church of Jesus Christ.

Characteristics of faith

• Additional fonts: In addition to the Bible, the Book of Mormonwhich Smith translated as divine revelation, was recognized as holy scripture. Other texts such as "The Doctrine and Covenants" and "The Pearl of Great Price" complement the faith.
• Image of God: God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are understood as separate beings with a common goal.
• Family-centeredness: The family plays a central role, and many rituals, such as the "sealing" for eternity, emphasize its importance.
• Eternal life: The goal is to return to God and live in his presence. Good deeds, faith and obedience to the commandments are essential for this.

Organization

• Mission: Young members are encouraged to serve as missionaries for 1-2 years.
• Temple: In addition to community centers, there are temples that are used for special rituals such as baptism for the deceased.
• Hierarchy: The church is led by a president (prophet) and twelve apostles.

Distribution and focus

With around 17 million members worldwide, the Mormons are particularly widespread in the USA. They are characterized by a strong community, social commitment and missionary zeal, but are sometimes viewed critically due to their additional scriptures and specific teachings.

Mennonites

The Mennonites are listed as 38,739 in 2022.

The Mennonites are a Christian denomination that emerged from the Anabaptist movement in the 16th century and were named after the Dutch reformer Menno Simons is named after. They are one of the oldest free churches and emphasize a simple way of life, non-violence and following Jesus.

Characteristics of faith

• Baptism: Baptism is only performed on believing adults who consciously profess their faith.
• Following Jesus: The focus is on the practical imitation of Jesus in everyday life, including charity, humility and forgiveness.
• Non-violence: Mennonites reject violence, military service and often also political office and focus on conflict resolution through peace and reconciliation.
• Community: Faith is lived in close community, with a strong emphasis on mutual support.

Organization

• Simple church services: These are characterized by Bible readings, prayer and often singing together.
• Autonomy: Communities are usually organized independently, although there are also larger associations depending on the group.
• Diaconia: Social work and humanitarian aid, often international, play a central role.

Distribution and focus

The Mennonites have around 2 million members worldwide and are particularly widespread in North and South America, Europe and Africa. While traditional groups such as the Amish follow strict rules of life, many modern people are Mennonites open to social developments. They are valued for their peacefulness and social commitment.

Seventh-day Adventists (STA)

In 2022, they have 32,411 members.

The Seventh-day Adventists are a Christian denomination that emerged in the USA in the middle of the 19th century. They reckoned with the dated return of Jesus Christ, but had to give up the dating after it failed to materialize and now limit themselves to the strict observance of the Sabbath (Saturday) as the only day of rest.
Ellen G. White (1827-1915) was a co-founder of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and an author. Alongside the Bible, her literature is the most important and frequently quoted pillar of the SDA Church

Characteristics of faith

• Mission: On Sabbath afternoons, members are expected to go door-to-door proselytizing. Full-time book evangelists also go from house to house and sell Ellen G. White's literature as well as other writings published by their own publishing houses.
• Baptism: Baptism is only performed on believing adults who consciously profess their faith.
• Sabbath: The seventh day of the week (Saturday) is celebrated as a holy day of rest, as commanded in the Ten Commandments. The beginning of the week is therefore Sunday. All work, both professional and private, is strictly forbidden.
• Return of Christ: The imminent return of Jesus is a central creed and continues to shape the lives of believers, albeit now without a defined date.
• Bible-centeredness: The Bible is regarded as the sole basis of faith and the inspired word of God.
• Tenth: Members are expected to donate a tithe of their gross salary.
• Holistic lifestyle: Health, a vegetarian diet, abstinence from tobacco, alcohol and other stimulants are emphasized. Here, too, reference is made to Ellen G. White and her literature.

Organization

• Church services: These take place on the Sabbath (Saturday) and include Bible study, preaching and communal prayer, as well as periodic foot washing.
• Mission: Evangelization and educational work, for example through schools, hospitals and humanitarian projects, are central aspects.
• Structure: The church is organized internationally and has a democratic administrative structure.

Distribution and focus

With over 21 million members worldwide, the Seventh-day Adventists are active internationally. They are known for their commitment to health promotion, education and humanitarian aid, which makes them stand out positively in society. Critics question their apocalyptic interpretation and strict rules of life.

SELK - Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church

The SELK put the number of members at 31,584 in 2022.

The Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church (SELK) is a conservative Lutheran free church that was founded in Germany in 1972 to distinguish itself from the German Evangelical Church (DEK) and the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD). It pursues the preservation of traditional Lutheran doctrine and practice and emphasizes the immutability of biblical truths.

Characteristics of faith

• Basic convictions: The SELK is committed to the fundamental Lutheran convictions that are shaped by the teachings of Martin Luther, in particular justification by grace alone and faith. Holy Scripture is the only source of Christian doctrine and practice.
• Sacraments: and the sacraments - baptism and communion - play a central role in the life of faith.
• Image of God: The image of God in the SELK is the classic Christian understanding of God as the Trinity: God as the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ) and the Holy Spirit. God is the creator of the universe and the redeemer of humanity through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• BaptismBaptism is celebrated in the SELK understood as a sacrament that unites the believer with Christ and welcomes them into the community of the Church. The SELK practises both infant baptism and adult baptism, whereby it regards the faith of the parents and the baptized as decisive for the meaning of the sacrament.

Organization

• Church services: The church services in the SELK are liturgical and traditional. They follow a fixed structure that includes the proclamation of the Word of God, prayer and the celebration of Holy Communion. Singing and liturgies play a central role, and the services are often characterized by a solemn atmosphere. The sermon, which is based on the Bible, is an essential part of every service, as are communal prayer and the singing of hymns.
• Mission: The mission plays a central role in the SELK. The church sees it as its task to proclaim the gospel and to lead believers to a life of faith and sanctification. The SELK is involved in both local and international missions and is committed to spreading the Christian faith in various social contexts.
• Structure: The SELK is hierarchically structured, with a bishop at the head of the church and a synodal structure consisting of various regions and congregations.

Distribution and focus

Distribution:

The SELK is primarily active in Germany, but also has congregations in other countries, particularly in North America and some European countries. The church is growing steadily and is committed to preserving Lutheran traditions and promoting a vibrant life of faith.

EmK - Evangelical Methodist Church

The data, which is quite up-to-date at 2024, indicates 30,069 members.

The Methodists are a Christian denomination that was founded in England in the 18th century by John Wesley and his brother Charles Wesley. The movement emphasizes personal sanctification, faith in Jesus Christ and social responsibility. A central feature of the Methodist faith is the idea that all people have the freedom to choose God. Salvation is achieved through faith and good works, and believers strive for a life of sanctification.

Characteristics of faith

• Salvation through grace: Methodists teach salvation by grace alone and emphasize the importance of personal faith and the need to lead a holy life. They believe in the Trinity (God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit) and the work of the Holy Spirit in believers. The importance of the Bible as the foundation of faith is also strongly emphasized.
• Image of GodMethodists believe in a personal God who is both just and loving. They emphasize the importance of a personal relationship with God and the opportunity to grow as a follower of Christ through the Holy Spirit.
• BaptismMethodists practice both infant baptism and adult baptism. Baptism is regarded as a sign of belonging to the Christian community and as a symbolic act of cleansing from sin.

Organization and structure

• Church services and life of faithMethodist church services are characterized by the singing of hymns, prayer, preaching and the celebration of communion. The believers attach great importance to personal piety and an active life of faith, which is promoted through regular Bible studies, prayer and charity.
• MissionMission plays a central role in the Methodist Church and members are active in various social and charitable projects, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare and poverty reduction. The commitment to social justice and improving the living conditions of the disadvantaged is an important part of their work.
• Structure: The Methodist Church is hierarchically structured and includes bishops, pastors and lay-led congregations. The church is divided into various conferences, which play an important role in leadership and decision-making. The worldwide organization is coordinated by the "World Methodist Fellowship", which comprises numerous national churches.

Distribution and focus

The Methodist movement is spread worldwide, with a particularly strong presence in the USA, Africa, Asia and Europe. It has globalized from its region of origin in Great Britain and is now one of the largest Protestant churches.

Church of the Brethren

No official data is known regarding membership figures for the Brethren churches in either of the two denominations listed below. It is also not known for which years the following figures apply.

Closed brotherhood

Generally accessible sources report around 16,000 members.

The Closed brotherhood emerged in the early 19th century as a radical split within the Pietist movement in Germany. Its emergence is primarily associated with Johann Gottfried van der Leyen who developed the idea of a strictly closed community of believers who wanted to separate themselves from the world in order to lead a holy life. This movement strove for a pure form of faith that distanced itself from external influences and the institutions of the church. The members gathered in small, secluded communities and practiced a simple, disciplined life. The Closed Brethren Church spread in Germany and later in other countries, but remained a small, strictly oriented religious community.

The Closed brotherhood is a Protestant free church that emerged in Germany in the 19th century. Its members live according to the principles of pietism and a strict separation from the world in order to lead a life of holiness.
Members only have access to congregations other than their local congregation with a letter of recommendation from their own congregation.

Characteristics of faith

• Image of GodIn the Closed Brethren Church, God is worshipped as a holy, just and merciful Father. Jesus Christ is recognized as the only Saviour and the way to salvation, while the Holy Spirit plays a central role as helper and guide in the lives of believers. The community lives in the conviction that life on earth serves above all to prepare for eternal life in heaven.
• BaptismThe Closed Brethren Church practices believers' baptism, which means that only people who have made a conscious decision to believe are baptized. Baptism is performed by immersion and is understood as a symbolic act of cleansing from sins and acceptance into the community of faith.
• Mission: Mission has a high priority in the Open Brethren Church. The believers strive to spread the faith, both in their local area and through international missionary work. In addition to evangelization, work in social and humanitarian projects plays a role in living out the Christian faith in practice.

Organization and structure

• Church servicesThe services are simple and focus on the Word of God, prayer and the fellowship of the faithful. They often take place in the private homes of the members of the congregation, as the Brethren congregation does not use large church buildings. The church service is a central opportunity to deepen faith and cultivate fellowship. Singing, Bible readings and prayer are essential components of the service, and the Brethren congregation has a decentralized structure, with each congregation working autonomously. There is no central church hierarchy or superior body. Rather, the community is organized through the leadership of elders and brothers who are responsible for the spiritual guidance and daily life of the congregation.
• Life of faith: The faith of the Closed Church of the Brethren is based on the Bible, with a strong emphasis on personal salvation, sanctification and Christian living in accordance with God's commandments. Members pursue a life free of worldly distractions such as holidays, alcohol or recreational pursuits and strive for an ethical life characterized by prayer, Bible study and personal piety. The community emphasizes a close and personal relationship with God and the pursuit of sanctification.
• MissionThe Closed brotherhood strives to spread its beliefs and lead others to repentance and sanctification. Missionary activities, such as evangelism and social services, are an important part of their practice, although they focus on close communities and personal relationships. The members live as an example of the Christian faith and try to bear witness to their beliefs in their surroundings.

Distribution and focus

The Closed brotherhood has its origins in Germany, but has also spread to other countries, particularly in Europe and North America. Their membership remains relatively small, but the congregations are very committed and cohesive due to their strict lifestyle and intense fellowship. They are represented in several countries and form a small but active religious community.

Open Church of the Brethren

The members of the Open Brethren Churches are estimated at around 4,000.

The Open Church of the Brethren is an evangelical free church that emerged in the 19th century from the Brethren movement which was originally characterized by the "Closed Brethren Church". The main difference between the two groups lies in the openness and greater integration of the Open Church of the Brethren into society. While the Closed brotherhood practiced a strict separation from the world, the Open Church of the Brethren The faithful are more oriented towards active participation in social life. Believers value the unity of the church and emphasize the importance of the Bible as the foundation of faith.

Characteristics of faith

• Image of God: The Open Church of the Brethren maintains the classic Christian understanding of God as the Trinity (God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit). Believers see God as the Creator and Redeemer, whose will and commandments should determine people's lives.
• Baptism: The Open Brethren Church practices believer's baptism, which means that only adults or people who consciously profess their faith are baptized. Baptism is an outward sign of belonging to the Christian community and a symbolic act of cleansing from sins.

Organization

• Church services: The church services in the Open Church of the Brethren are simple and non-liturgical, without fixed religious ceremonies or hierarchies. They focus on Bible study, communal prayer and the sermon. As a rule, there is no fixed preacher and the responsibility for organizing the service often lies with the lay people. The emphasis is on the free proclamation of the Word of God. Playing a role.
• Life of faithThe church is strongly characterized by a personal relationship with God and the community. The members strive for a life that is in harmony with biblical principles. A central element of the life of faith is personal Bible reading and regular prayer, whereby Bible study takes place both in private and in the community. The life of the faithful is geared towards bearing witness to the Christian faith through deeds, which includes charity, social responsibility and ethical action in all areas of life.
  Another feature of the life of faith is the practice of sanctification - the ongoing spiritual and moral development of the individual to become more like Christ. Members are committed to promoting fellowship and mutual support within the congregation, which is seen as a spiritual family.
  In addition, a conscious life of charity is cultivated, which is expressed through various social and missionary activities. The members are often involved in helping the needy and strive to live their faith in a practical way.
• Mission: The mission has a high priority in the Open Church of the Brethren. The believers strive to spread the faith, both in their local area and through international missionary work. In addition to evangelization, work in social and humanitarian projects plays a role in living the Christian faith in practice.
• Structure: The Open Church of the Brethren is characterized by a decentralized structure. There is no formal church leadership or hierarchy; the congregations are autonomous and independent, with responsibility for spiritual leadership often resting with older brothers or the congregational meetings. The congregations are loosely connected with each other and exchange information regularly, but there is no central administration or overarching organization.

Distribution and focus

The Open Brethren Church has spread worldwide, particularly in Europe, North America and Australia. It is one of the major free churches and is known for its independent structure and its emphasis on the personal responsibility of each individual in the faith.