Gemeindegründung

Ekklesiologische Perspektiven auf ein freikirchliches Phänomen

Abstract

The founding of new congregations is typical for free churches. There are many publications with practical instructions for this, but only a few isolated systematic theological treatises. The founding of a new church is a specific process aimed at building a new, self-reliant, local church that makes known the gospel of Christ. Such a fellowship is based on God’s initiative. This is manifested in baptism, communion, and the proclamation of the gospel, which also includes counselling and practical help. The church is a creation and resonance chamber of the word of God, wakens faith and fellowship of faith (which is not identical with mere social interaction). The founding of new churches follows from the mission of the church, which is the gathering place for believers, where the fellowship of believers is built up