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This section of our guide covers four separate but historically related denominations: the Free Church of Scotland (1843-1900), the United Free Church of Scotland, the Free Church of Scotland (since 1900), and the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing).

The Free Church of Scotland was formed during the Disruption of 1843, a significant split from the established Church of Scotland. The Disruption occurred due to disagreements over the relationship between the Church and the state, particularly issues related to the right of a congregation to call its ministers. The Free Church of Scotland emphasized its independence from state control and a commitment to a more evangelical and conservative theology. However, in 1900, the majority of the Free Church of Scotland merged with the United Presbyterian Church of Scotland to form the United Free Church of Scotland, while those who remained became known as the Free Church of Scotland (1843-1900).

The United Free Church of Scotland was created in 1900 through the union of the Free Church of Scotland and the United Presbyterian Church of Scotland, as stated above. The merger aimed to strengthen the Presbyterian witness in Scotland. The United Free Church continues to emphasize Presbyterian governance and evangelical theology. However, not all congregations and ministers agreed to join the union.

After the union, 27 ministers and about 100 congregations chose not to enter the United Free Church of Scotland. These dissenting congregations, in a display of resilience and determination, continued as the Free Church of Scotland, which has maintained its commitment to a more conservative theological stance and independence from state interference.

The Free Church of Scotland (Continuing) represents the continuation of the original Free Church of Scotland. It is a distinct denomination that emphasizes traditional Reformed theology and a commitment to Presbyterian principles. While smaller, it continues to exist alongside the larger Church of Scotland and other Presbyterian bodies.

In short, the Free Church of Scotland (1843-1900) led to the United Free Church of Scotland, but some congregations remained separate as the Free Church of Scotland (since 1900), and a further division resulted in the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing). Each of these denominations has its unique history and theological perspectives.

The Disruption of 1843, which started it all, was a schism in which 450 evangelical ministers broke away from the Church of Scotland to form the Free Church of Scotland. The central conflict was whether the Church of Scotland or the British Government had the power to control clerical positions and benefits.

The Church of Scotland was recognized by Acts of the Parliament as the national church of the Scottish people. The Church of Scotland had always claimed the right to independent jurisdiction over its affairs. To some extent, this right was recognized by the Claim of Right of 1689, which was ratified by the Act of Union in 1707.

The issue of the right of patronage, in which the patron of a parish had the authority to appoint a minister of their choosing, sparked debate and contention. Some argued that this practice encroached upon the Church's spiritual autonomy, while others considered it a state prerogative.

 

 

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