Free Church Traditions in Twentieth-Century Europe

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the Free Church traditions, the heirs of earlier dissenting movements, in Europe in the twentieth century. This century posed major challenges to Free Church believers. The chapter explores five main areas: evangelistic witness, church and state relations, theology and spirituality, issues of identity, and social and global involvements. The chapter shows that while some Free Church denominations saw numerical decline, others—particularly Pentecostals—grew. It explores how some Free Churches have been reluctant to get involved in wider political issues, while others have been deeply engaged; how in theology and spirituality European Free Church scholars have made a contribution; how Free Churches have related in different ways to ecumenical endeavour; and how they have been involved in social ministry. Finally, although Europe has become a missionary-receiving part of the world, this chapter suggests that global mission has remained an essential part of European Free Church identity.