Brunstad Christian Church
Smith's Friends, or The Christian Church, as they officially call themselves in documents, are a worldwide Christian fellowship religious group, which was established in Norway in the early 20th century. Today they have members in more than 50 countries.
Background
They were founded by Johan Oscar Smith (1871-1943) together with his brother Aksel Smith (1880-1919) and their friends, most notably Elias Aslaksen (1888-1976). Johan Oscar Smith came from Fredrikstad and moved to Horten in Vestfold. He served several years in the Norwegian navy, as did Aslaksen.
Smith was brought up in a family with an interest in the Christian religion. He was originally a member of the Methodist church. He experienced a personal awakening in 1898, while he served in the navy and from that point on began to preach the gospel. During his life, his preaching was heard over most of the Norwegian coast. For a while the congregation was influenced by Pentecostalism, but it soon developed an identity of its own.
In 1992 and 1993, during what proponents called a "revival," Smith's Friends members were polarized into those who were for and against the revival. Around 300 to 400 members left them. The ones who left had not been in agreement with the ones who stayed, and during the revival it became evident. Most who left did not stay together. Some went where they could be in charge. Many of them still work against the Smith's Friends, legally and in person. Power and authority in the group soon passed on to the leaders of the revival, most notably Kåre J. Smith, the grandson of founder Johan Oscar Smith and son-in-law of the prior leader, Sigurd Bratlie, as well as Bratlie’s son, Sigurd J. Bratlie.
Teachings
Faith in victory over sin plays an important role in their beliefs. They preach that Jesus was tempted, but did not sin and that it is possible now by faith in Him to follow His example.. The life of Jesus Christ, His temptations and victories and His crucifixion and resurrection are very significant to them.
In many aspects, they follow a distinctive characteristic way of explaining the teachings, and they often use an archaic theological language.
The denomination has little or nothing to do with other Christian groups.