The answer to what constitutes the "largest evangelical denomination" is nuanced, as the term "evangelical" carries different meanings depending on geographical and historical contexts. Globally, and in the modern understanding of the term, the Assemblies of God is often considered the largest single evangelical denomination. However, when considering historically named "Evangelical" churches, particularly in European contexts, other large denominations emerge.
Understanding "Evangelical"
The term "evangelical" stems from the Greek word evangelion, meaning "good news" or "gospel." Historically, it referred broadly to Protestant churches emphasizing the gospel message, such as Lutheran and Reformed traditions in Europe. In contemporary global usage, especially in English-speaking countries, "evangelicalism" often refers to a distinct movement within Protestantism characterized by an emphasis on:
- Personal conversion or the "born-again" experience
- The authority and inerrancy of the Bible
- Active evangelism and missionary work
- The atoning death of Christ on the cross
This distinction is crucial when identifying the largest denomination.
Largest in Global Evangelicalism (Modern Context)
In the context of the global evangelical movement, which is often characterized by Pentecostal, Charismatic, and some Baptist and non-denominational traditions, the World Assemblies of God Fellowship stands out as the largest single denomination. This global fellowship encompasses numerous national Assemblies of God churches worldwide and reports approximately 70 million adherents. Its emphasis on Pentecostal theology, evangelism, and missions aligns strongly with modern evangelical characteristics.
Large Denominations with "Evangelical" in Their Name (Historical Context)
In parts of Europe, particularly Germany, the term "Evangelical" is often synonymous with "Protestant." Several significant Christian denominations bear the name "Evangelical" due to their historical roots in the Reformation:
- The Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD): This is a federation of 20 regional Protestant churches in Germany. While it is predominantly Lutheran and Reformed, its overall membership stands at approximately 19.2 million. Within this federation, about 10.8 million members are specifically Lutheran, reflecting its significant Lutheran heritage. The EKD plays a central role in German society and embodies the broader "Evangelical" (Protestant) tradition in the country.
- The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus: This is a rapidly growing Lutheran denomination based in Ethiopia. It holds a prominent position in Africa and reports a membership of approximately 10.4 million. As a "Mekane Yesus" (Place of Jesus) church, it is actively engaged in evangelism and social work, reflecting both its Lutheran roots and a contemporary evangelical spirit.
Key Denominational Sizes
To provide a clear overview, here's a comparison of these major denominations:
| Denomination | Primary Context / Type | Approximate Membership |
|---|---|---|
| World Assemblies of God Fellowship | Global Evangelical (Pentecostal) | 70 million |
| Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) | German Protestant Federation (Lutheran/Reformed) | 19.2 million (total) |
| Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus | Ethiopian Evangelical Lutheran | 10.4 million |
While "Lutheranism" as a broad family of denominations globally encompasses 70-90 million members, this represents numerous independent church bodies rather than a single unified denomination.
In conclusion, the definition of "evangelical" significantly influences the answer. The Assemblies of God represents the largest single denomination within the modern global evangelical movement, while historical "Evangelical" churches like the EKD and the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus are also among the largest Protestant bodies worldwide.
