What is the Free Lutheran Church?

The Free Lutheran Church (FLC) is an American Protestant denomination in the tradition of German Reformer Martin Luther (1483—1546). It began in 1962 when congregations with Norwegian heritage formed the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations (AFLC) in the United States. The next year, the Lutheran Free Church voted to merge with The American Lutheran Church, forming the basis for most of the membership of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations. Today, the Free Lutheran Church is a conservative fellowship that champions the Bible, values local church freedom, and drives global missions work.

Theologically, the Free Lutheran Church teaches the core truths of historic Lutheranism. These beliefs stem from the 16th-century Protestant Reformation, which emphasized doctrine based on Scripture alone. The denomination affirms salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8–9; Acts 4:12). It also confesses the authority of Scripture as the only authority for faith and life. The FLC subscribes to foundational Christian and Lutheran confessions, such as the Apostles’ Creed (AD 390) and the Augsburg Confession (AD 1530). At the same time, it stresses the freedom of each local church to govern itself under Jesus.

In addition, the denomination emphasizes the priesthood of all believers. This means that every Christian has direct access to God through Jesus (1 Peter 2:5; Hebrews 10:19–22). As Peter writes to all Christians, “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). This conviction shapes the way Christians worship, serve, and live in community.

Building on this principle, pastors in the AFLC serve by teaching the Bible, baptizing, and administering the Lord’s Supper. Alongside this, all members are called to witness, serve, and pray. The Association of Free Lutheran Congregations encourages active involvement in congregational decisions and outreach, believing that Jesus gave pastors and teachers “to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up” (Ephesians 4:11–12). In this way, it seeks to unite biblical teaching with active ministry.

To support this vision of shared ministry, the denomination places strong emphasis on training and sending workers into ministry. Its Bible college and seminary in Plymouth, Minnesota, equips students for service in local churches and missions. Students study Scripture, theology, and ministry skills for preaching, teaching, and leadership. Many graduates serve as pastors, missionaries, and Christian educators.

In relation to outreach, the Free Lutheran Church actively supports missions work in the United States and abroad. Its members believe Jesus’ command to make disciples applies to every generation (Matthew 28:19–20). Churches often work together to send workers and support new churches. In the field, missionaries teach Scripture, train leaders, and help meet practical needs. Through this work, the denomination shows its passion to take the gospel to those who have not yet heard it.

Furthermore, the FLC has a clear view of how churches should be led. Each congregation is self-governing under Jesus, rather than ruled by a central office. Members choose their leaders, manage their own finances, and call their own pastors. Pastors answer to their congregations and to God’s Word. This way of governing reflects the church’s belief in both freedom and responsibility, seeking to remain faithful to the Bible while united in Jesus.

In summary, the Free Lutheran Church is a conservative Lutheran body that promotes biblical faith through independent local churches. It affirms salvation by grace through faith in Jesus alone, the authority of Scripture, and the priesthood of all believers. Members see their work as part of God’s call to proclaim the good news of Jesus to the world. Through these commitments, the denomination aims to remain faithful to God’s Word.