What is IFCA International?

Answer

IFCA International is a fellowship of evangelical, conservative churches dedicated to “strengthening the Church by preparing for, and promoting, ministry partnerships to achieve Great Commission goals” (from the official IFCA website). The organization is committed to fostering collaboration among healthy and like-minded churches, while respecting the autonomy of congregational governance. IFCA International is not a denomination; it is a coalition of churches and individuals with shared beliefs and a shared desire to collaborate prayerfully in a spirit of mutual dependence.

The IFCA was established in 1930 as a successor to the American Conference of Undenominational Churches. The new entity adopted the name Independent Fundamental Churches of America and aimed to offer fellowship, support, and recognition to independent churches and individuals. During the founding of the IFCA, Modernism was gaining ground in America, and mainstream denominations were being influenced by church leaders who rejected the infallibility of the Bible and other fundamental doctrines. Many churches, upholding orthodoxy, were leaving their denominations, and the IFCA was established to provide those congregations with a spiritual community. In 1996, the name was changed to IFCA International.

Members of IFCA International affirm the absolute authority of God’s Word and consider the Bible to be the verbally inspired Word of God, the ultimate authority for matters of faith and life. The rest of their Articles of Faith and Doctrine, including their beliefs on salvation, are built on these firm convictions about God’s Word.

IFCA International’s five core values are as follows:

Biblical Doctrine – Continuing relevance of the historical fundamentals

Biblical Leadership – Exemplifying integrity, humility, passion, and selflessness

Biblical Outreach – Evangelism and missions as a priority for the Church

Evangelism at home and overseas

Biblical Partnerships – Achieving more collectively than individually

Biblical Excellence – Striving for the best for His honor

IFCA International is recognized for its firm conservative doctrine and opposition to ecumenism. IFCA churches exhibit varying levels of ecclesiastical separation and stress personal sanctity. While some IFCA churches have been criticized for taking ecclesiastical and/or personal separation to unscriptural extremes, the IFCA itself promotes a balanced biblical approach.

In general, IFCA International churches are reputable, robust, and grounded in the Bible. However, as with any church denomination or association, earnestly seek God’s guidance in finding the church He has chosen for you. Thoroughly assess the teachings and customs of a church before formally becoming a member.