I want to supply a thorough summary of some major beliefs of various Christian denominations for those of you, like me, that really have a hard time trying to tell the difference between all of them. Now, you may be thinking “They’re basically all the same” or “differences don’t matter,” but they do for these people who have dedicated their lives to these specific doctrines for one reason or another; so, I ask for an open-mind and some respect. I’ll supply my opinion on religious indifference in another post, but for now, happy reading. I hope you’ll learn something 🙂
Here’s the list of denominations I will cover in this post:
Lutheranism, Anabaptism, Amish, Mennonites, Seventh Day Adventism, Protestantism Reformed (Calvinism), Presbyterianism, Anglicanism, Episcopalianism, Methodism, Baptists, Quakers, Evangelicalism, Pentecostalism
++Note: not all Christian denominations listed are actually Protestant (like the Anglican Church), but they are included here for simplicity’s sake.
Differences to look for…
Similarities are great and beautiful, but you wouldn’t be reading this blog trying to learn about what other people believe if everything was the same. I want to quickly explain some of the major differences between denominations before I go more in-depth with each particular one.
Sacraments & Rituals
A sacrament is in outward sign of an inward grace that can be received. Note: not all denominations consider the following to be “sacraments,” nor do all practice each of them. For some, they are mere symbolic services.
Baptism – Most denominations celebrate Baptism, which typically involves the sprinkling or immersion of water and serves as a symbol of initiation in the Christian Church.
Things to compare: Do they baptize infants? How does one baptize? Who has the authority to baptize? Does baptism forgive sins?
Confirmation – For those that practice infant baptism, Confirmation is another sacrament of initiation in which the gifts given by the Holy Spirit in Baptism are sealed. It often occurs in young adulthood.
Holy Matrimony – This is the celebration of marriage.
Things to compare: Who can get married? Who has the authority to wed couples? Do they allow divorce?
Holy Communion – Some believe it is the celebration of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. Others believe it is a pure symbol of Christianity and a way to remember the Last Supper Jesus shared with his apostles before he died.
Things to compare: Do they believe the bread/wine are truly Jesus or merely symbols? How frequently is communion offered? Who has the authority to offer communion? Who can receive communion?
Holy Orders – These are the leaders of the church, whether it be priesthood or minister/pastor/elder.
Things to compare: Who leads church services? Are services required of members? Is there a hierarchy of leadership? Can women preach?
The Role of Mary and the Saints
Mary is the virgin mother of Jesus, a Jewish woman from the town of Nazareth in present day Israel. She was betrothed to an older man named Joseph, who feared to take her as his wife because she was with child.
Saints are regarded as holy persons who are in heaven after death because they lived virtuous lives.
Things to compare: Do they venerate saints? Do they ask for Mary or the saints to intercede for them in prayer? Do they believe in the Assumption or Immaculate Conception?
Salvation
A big difference between Protestantism and the Roman Catholic Church is whether justification is by faith alone (Sola fide) through faith in Jesus Christ through scripture alone (sola scriptura). See Scripture Alone for more about this particular difference, and Sola Fide for a deeper, Catholic perspective.
Okay, let’s begin! (My main sources for figuring out which ones to cover: Wikipedia List of Denominations, Encyclopedia of Christianity)
Lutheranism
Sacraments* & Rituals
*Only Baptism and Holy Communion are considered sacraments according to Lutheran Theology
Baptism – Lutherans believe that baptism is one of the many means of receiving God’s grace through faith. Baptism is not absolutely necessary for salvation (for many of the old leaders in the Church were before Jesus and not baptized, so faith can come in many forms), and infants are allowed to be baptized. Anyone at any age can be baptized, but it is advised to speak to a pastor beforehand, as baptism only needs to be performed once, “in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” It is often done by sprinkling of water. During baptism, one’s sins are forgiven. In usual circumstances, the pastor of the church will perform the baptism. In emergency situations, however, any Christian can baptize another. (For more: LCMS Website)
Confirmation/Affirmation of Baptism – Confirmation is merely a symbolic public profession of faith, and thus it is not a sacrament of the Lutheran faith. It is a followed by a series of studies in order for young people “to identify more deeply with the Christian community and participate more fully in its mission.” It is a symbol of faith and an affirmation of one’s baptism. Students wishing to be confirmed must meet with the pastor for special classes months prior, and many attend Sunday school taught by church members in years prior. They wear special robes during the ceremony to symbolize this completion of instruction and public profession of faith. Most youth are confirmed around age 14.
Holy Matrimony – The Missouri Synod (LCMS) believes that marriage is between a man and a woman. There are 2 components for Lutherans: a civil contract and the blessing of the marriage by God’s Word and prayer. The LCMS forbids sexual relations outside of a marriage, or fornication. It encourages a wedding ceremony in a church, which is far more than a civil wedding because it includes prayers for the couple, bible quotes, and hymns during the ceremony. Any couples who are civilly wed are able to receive additional blessings by requesting them from the pastor. The LCMS seeks to minister to those who are struggling with homosexual inclinations, and it will not bless same-sex marriages. The Evangelical Lutheran Church, on the other hand, will allow for the blessing of same-sex couples, dependent on the pastor; however, pastors are not required to perform any same-sex ceremonies. (For more: LCMS: Marriage, Lutheran Marriage Booklet, Lutheran Wedding Policies, Evangelical Lutheran Wedding Guide)
Holy Communion – Lutherans believe in the Sacramental Union, or a profound union of bread, body, blood, and wine at the altar. This means that the bread and wine transform into the Body and Blood of Jesus, and communion is His real presence, but the bread and wine retain their physical properties. Only the pastor can consecrate the bread/wine. This is often referred to as consubstantiation, but Lutherans attest that it is an even greater mystery, and the term is falsely attributed to their communion. This may seem like a tiny difference, but it leads to differences in practice after the service. While the Catholic Church will preserve non-consumed hosts in a tabernacle, Lutherans believe that after the celebration of the Eucharist, Christ is no longer present. Their communion services are closed, which means that if you are not members of The Lutheran Church, you are not supposed to receive communion. This is out of respect for their tradition, which requires that one either undergo parish education to receive first communion at an early age (5th grade), or wait until one’s confirmation and full initiation into the Lutheran Church. (Questions? LCMS: Communion, UCCB Inter-religious council)
Church Leadership
Ordained ministers, or pastors, are the leaders of Lutheran churches. They are allowed to administer the 2 Lutheran sacraments. Regarding lay ministry, Lutherans may have elders and deacons; Elders may help ministers with administration and worship duties, and deacons tend to practice pastoral care and outreach duties. Other lay positions within a church may include officers, council members and representatives, etc., depending on the church (see Our Savior Lutheran Church for one example). In the LCMS, there is a President, a board of directors, and a commission of theology and church relations (see LCMS Leadership). For Evangelical (ECLA) leadership: ELCA Leadership.
Role of Mary and the saints
Lutherans believe in the virgin birth of Jesus from Mary; they refer to her as “God-bearer” and a “blessed virgin.” However, they do not accept the Two Marian dogmas of the Immaculate Conception, that Mary was born without original sin, or the Assumption, in which Mary was taken body and soul into heaven. They view Christ as the sole mediator between God and man, and thus do not ask for Mary or the saints to intercede for them on their behalf. They do not deny that Mary or the saints are in union with God, but they believe that even “calling upon” someone else to send a message to God undermines Christ’s significance as a sole mediator (For more: UCCB Inter-religious council).
Salvation
Lutherans believe that the Bible teaches that a person is saved by God’s grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ alone. “Grace” means that human works do not contribute in any way to a person’s salvation or justification, and they frequently quote St. Paul in Rom. 11:6, “But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.” They believe that being saved is also not about trying to amend one’s sinful life, it is possible for one to lose salvation if he falls from faith, and that those who are faithful have “eternal assurance” for heaven. They acknowledge that these things do not have to make “rational” sense, for they merely need to be in scripture. They believe in predestination, the idea that God knows who will be saved and who will not be from the beginning of time. Lutherans reject the idea of “free will” for salvation due to the bible saying that man’s will is “dead” and powerless to “choose” God and his grace in Christ. They believe that only those who believe in Jesus Christ, even if they have not heard of him, as well as those who reject him, will be eternally punished, and their bodies and souls will be condemned to hell. Christians will then live in heaven, free from sin, death, and evil. When we die, our souls enter either heaven or hell, and on the Day of Judgement, our bodies will reunite with our souls. (For More: LCMS: Forgiveness, Lutheran Belief Statements)
Texts:
Further Research:
(For a lot more: Praise Lutheran, LCMS.org – I recommend downloading their doctrine statements)
For more about denominations within Lutheranism & differences: LCMS: Lutheran Denominations
Anabaptizers (Re-baptizers)
Anabaptists during the Protestant Reformation were in favor of believer baptizing, rejecting the baptism of infants. They allowed for adults to be re-baptized by choice in the early times of the church if they had previously been baptized as infants. This group is sometimes also referred to as the Christian Brethren. Modern groups with roots from this movement include, but are not limited to: The Amish, Mennonites, and Landmark Baptists. There is no set of beliefs that characterize all anabaptists.
Sacraments & Rituals
Baptism – is a practice for believing adults to enter into the faith; it is often done by full-immersion and is believed to cleanse one from sin
Communion – is believed to be purely symbolic of the Last Supper
See below for more specific information regarding modern Anabaptists (Amish and Mennonites)
More Information:
The Amish
The Amish are part of a distinct group of Anabaptists with some additional beliefs and practices. A man named Jakob Ammann sought to revitalize the Anabaptist movement. He became a leader of the Swiss Anabaptist Church over a hundred years after the Protestant Reformation. Some changes he instituted included: holding communion twice a year rather than once, washing one another’s feet during the communion service, the forbidding of trimming beards, the wearing of fashionable dress, and the shunning of excommunicated members. Because of these changes, there was a lot of debate between the Anabaptists and Ammann’s followers (the Amish), and thus, they became their own sect. After the age of 16, children can leave the experience life outside of the community for a few years and decide whether or not they would like to remain and be baptized. 90% typically decide to remain.
Sacraments & Rituals
Baptism – For the Amish, most young people take their baptismal vows between 18 and 22 years of age during a Sunday morning service that follows several weeks of instruction for the candidates. Baptism is believed to be an adult choice to follow Jesus, for infants are not believed to have any sin. It is viewed as official initiation into the church, involving the outward sign of water, and the inward sign of the Spirit cleansing us from sin (For more: Amish America: Baptism).
Communion – Communion services are held twice a year, 2 weeks after the Council meetings of spring and autumn, where leaders discuss issues within the church in order to resolve them before communion. Services are only open to baptized believers. These services may last nearly 8 hours, and they include preaching from ministers, biblical readings of Jesus’ life/death/teachings, foot-washing (see below), and communion in the form of bread and wine. These are believed to be mere symbols (for more: Amish: Communion).
Marriage – Marriage is viewed as a life-long bond between one man and one woman. Baptism is required to marry in the Amish Church, and many couples marry in their early twenties. Spouses do not wear wedding rings, for they view it as a sense of pride and individualism. Once a spouse dies, re-marriage is permitted. However, divorce is considered highly taboo in Amish communities and an act worthy of excommunication. The male is considered the head of the household, although Amish women hold great influence as well. The Amish also do not believe in birth control, they condemn homosexual behavior, and they do not believe in premarital sex (those who are found with-child before taking vows may have to make a confession)
Holy Kiss – In some Amish churches, male members greet one another before the service with a Holy Kiss, a kiss based in Scripture (2 Cor. 13:12 & Romans 16:16). It is also given by the bishop to newly baptized young men, and from the bishop’s wife to the women. Women may also exchange the kiss amongst themselves in some communities. (For more: Amish America: Holy Kiss)
Church Leadership
Amish Church is mostly lead by the congregation. There is a bishop, minister, and deacon within various communities to promote discipline and baptism of new members (for more: Amish Hierarchy, Amish America: Leaders)
Role of Mary and the Saints
Amish view Jesus as the sole mediator, and they believe in Mary as the virgin mother of Jesus.
Salvation
The Amish believe in heaven and hell, but they do not believe salvation is guaranteed like most Protestant denominations. They, instead, believe in a “living hope” as a far more humble manner. They believe in salvation through grace, and that God will also take into consideration how obedient one was in the Church before determining whether one should go to heaven or hell. Thus, works hold some merit, and one can lose one’s salvation through his actions or by falling from grace. They respect other branches of Christianity, as it would be considered arrogant for the Amish to consider themselves any more worthy of salvation than another Christian branch. (For more: Amish: Salvation)
Common questions:
Do the Amish view technology as evil? No. They simply see it as something that can interfere with family life and lead to evil, so they practice using limited technology. (See Amish Myths, Amish: Technology)
Why do the Amish practice shunning? (See Amish America: Shunning)
Why do the Amish dress a certain way? They believe it shows their uniformity in values of humility (See Amish: Clothing)
Texts
- Luther’s German Bible is the text used for worship and home readings. Those who read in English typically use the Kings James Version (KJV).
- The Ordnung is like the Amish outline of expected behavior, which discusses how one should practice private, public, and ceremonial life. It is an oral tradition of rules for behavior.
- the Martyrs Mirror is a record of religious persecution and martyrdom stories published in Dutch in 1660
- the Ausbund is a hymnbook written by imprisoned Anabaptists in the 16th century. It does not include musical notation, and it is the primary book used for worship services
- the Dordrecht Confession of Faith is a Dutch Anabaptist confession of faith written in 1632. It is used for baptism, and it includes 18 articles of faith, including those distinct to the Amish: shunning, excommunication, and nonviolence (See: 18 Articles)
Further Research:
20 Faith Statements, BBC Article
Amish America is a frequently updated weblog about the Amish and other Anabaptist groups. It includes an online encyclopedia and information by state. (See: Common Questions)
GAMEO (Global Anabaptist Mennonite Encyclopedia Online) has articles on Amish and other Anabaptist-related groups regarding history, theology, biography, institutions, and local congregations.
The Mennonites
The Mennonites are Anabaptists as well, but they are viewed as being more liberal in their beliefs of limited technology, shunning, etc. (see: Mennonites for more similarities/differences between them and the Amish)
Here’s also a good outline of Mennonite doctrine with scriptural support.
Seventh-Day Adventism
One of the early leaders of The Seventh-Day Adventist Church was Ellen G. White, who is believed to have the gift of prophecy, and used it to write many inspired works. Adventists believe that the gift of prophecy is sent by the Holy Spirit and has a scriptural basis (See Adventism: Prophecy), and they also believe that the Sabbath should be celebrated on Saturday rather than Sunday. They believe in sola-scriptura, or scripture alone. They are also known for having “incorrectly” predicted the second-coming of Christ (10 Beliefs).
Sacraments and Rituals
Baptism – Adventists perform baptisms on adult believers. One must repent and accept Christ as Lord and Savior in order to be baptized. Baptisms are done by full-immersion. It is a symbol of the cleansing of sins and the receiving of the Holy Spirit. One does not need baptism in order to be saved as long as he has accepted Jesus internally and lived according to this faith.
Communion – Communion is celebrated four time per year. It is a ceremony that commences with foot washing, and men and women go into separate rooms. Afterward, they re-unite in order to share unleavened bread and unfermented grape juice to symbolically commemorate the last supper. Adventists practice “open communion,” so any Christian can partake in the ceremony.
Marriage – Adventists believe marriage is a life-long companionship between a man and a woman. (Adventist Official Statement)
Church Leadership
Pastors lead services on Sabbath, and there is a hierarchy for official addresses to the entire community that can be seen here: Adventist: World Church Leadership. They have a General Conference, which oversees the global ministry of the church and is responsible for the spiritual development of the church, located in Silver Spring, Maryland. It is democratic in nature for leaders to become involved. Then, there is the union conference, which is divided into smaller conferences based on geographic location. Lastly, there are local conferences, which consist of churches in a state or territory. Local churches and their members belong to these local conferences, and each of these churches have their own officers and boards.
Role of Mary & Saints
Seventh-Day Adventists view Mary as the mother of Jesus, and saints are role models. They do not ask for either’s intercession (Former Adventist Blog).
Salvation
Adventists believe that the dead remain unconscious until Judgement. They believe in two resurrections: one for the righteous at the Rapture and one a thousand years later for the unrighteous during the final Judgement. They believe men are fallen in nature because of original sin. During the final Judgement, they believe that the damned simply cease to exist or eternally die. They do not believe in hell as an infinite realm of torture. They believe we are saved through our faith, but that we can also choose to no longer final Christ and therefore choose damnation (Adventist Article).
Texts & More Information
- Seventh-Day Adventists follow 28 Fundamental Beliefs
- The Bible
- Summary of Theology
Protestantism Reformed (Calvinism)
Calvinism was founded by a French theologian known as John Calvin in the mid 1500’s. Calvinists are strict interpreters of sacred scripture. Calvinism is essentially known for these supporting these main 5 ideas:
- Total Depravity (also known as Total Inability/ Original Sin)
- Calvinists believe that humans are inherently evil, and only those that God has “predestined” are capable of seeking Him and being saved.
- Unconditional Election
- God chooses who will be saved not based on individual qualities, but simply of His own kindness. God did not look into the future to see who would choose Him when deciding who is predestined to be saved.
- Limited Atonement (also known as Particular Atonement)
- Calvinists believe that Jesus only died for those who were predestined to be saved, not for anyone else.
- Irresistible Grace
- Calvinists believe that those chosen to be saved, “the elect,” cannot resist salvation or the call from the Holy Spirit to repent and be born-again into eternal life.
- Perseverance of the Saints (also known as Once Saved Always Saved)
- Calvinists believe that the elect cannot lose salvation, thus “once saved, always saved.”
Sacraments* and Rituals
*Only baptism and communion are considered sacraments
Baptism – Calvinists believe that both adults and infants can be baptized. Baptism is practiced explicitly through immersion, and it is only for believers.
Communion – some churches practice closed communion only for those who have presented specific credentials to the church leadership, while other churches allow for any believer to participate. Some use bread and wine, while others use bread and grape juice. Calvinists believe that they consume physical bread and wine, but Jesus’ spiritual body and blood, and the sacrament is thus a “visible sign of an invisible reality.”
Marriage – Marriage is believed to be between a man and a woman, and thus homosexual marriages are not permitted by the church, neither is fornication/pre-marital sex. Marriage is not considered a sacrament for Reformed Protestants ( Young Calvinist Blog).
Church Leadership
Calvinism has four offices: Pastors, Teachers (Doctors of the Word of God), Elders, and Deacons. This implies a Presbyterian (see below) form of government, rather than a hierarchical (like Roman Catholicism) or congregational form of government. Pastors should be biblically knowledgeable and trained, and they can be married. (See Pastoral Theology, Role of the Pastor Article)
Role of Mary & Saints
Calvinists hold a positive view of Mary and the saints, but they reject the veneration of either. (For more: Honouring the Virgin Mary Article)
Salvation
Calvinists believe in the concept of predestination, or that God pre-destined a select few to be saved. Nobody knows who is considered to be members of these “elect” or not, other than God; however, Calvinists believe that those who believe saintly show evidence of the elects’ existence. They do not believe that any good works can make someone become part of the elect. Once someone is saved, he is always saved, and he cannot lose this salvation. The same is true for the eternally damned.
More information:
Presbyterianism
The Presbyterian Church was founded by a former Catholic priest, John Knox, who focused his teachings based upon John Calvin’s theological doctrines in 1560.
Sacraments & Rituals
Baptism – Presbyterians practice infant baptism in the name of the Trinity. They believe that baptism calls for the faithful to repent and become good disciples in order to minister to the Church and the world. They practice baptism by the sprinkling or pouring of water.
Communion – They believe that Jesus is spiritually present through the Holy Spirit in the bread and wine used for services. It is celebrated on rare occasions about 4-6 times per year in some churches, and every week in others. Presbyterians will allow any baptized adults or children to receive communion (Church Example, More on Practice)
“The Lord’s Supper is the sign and seal of eating and drinking in communion with the crucified and risen Lord. During his earthly ministry Jesus shared meals with his followers as a sign of community and acceptance and as an occasion for his own ministry.”
Book of Order W-2.4001a
Marriage – Marriage is between one man and one woman, and it is supposed to be between 2 believers or 2 nonbelievers. The Church fully recognizes marriages, even if they did not occur within the Church. Divorce is permitted in the Church. The PCA and PCUSA differ on divorce, with the PCA teaching that divorce is a sin except in cases of adultery or desertion. The PCUSA teaches no-fault divorce. Same-sex marriages are not permitted within the Church; however, since 2000, the General Assembly has allowed for the blessing of non-married same-sex unions (Marriage Guidelines).
Church Leadership
Most authority is held within elected laypersons known as elders, which make up a session of the local church’s congregation. Several sessions may lead to a local synod, which is known as a General Assembly, and it meets in order to govern the entire denomination. Elders and ministers who serve in governing bodies are called presbyters. Women are able to be ordained as ministers in the PCUSA, but not the PCA. Candidates for ordination must have a college undergraduate degree and a seminary degree, they must pass national exams on theology and church topics; then, they may be ordained as teaching elders.
Role of Mary and the saints
Like most Protestant traditions, Mary is important and viewed as the virgin mother of Jesus, but there is no teaching of the Immaculate Conception or Assumption, nor is there any acceptance of asking for her intercession. Feel free to read a Mary rant by a Presbyterian scholar for a more elaborated position.
Salvation
Presbyterians believe in predestination (see Calvinism for more). These predestined individuals are known as the “elect” if they are chosen by God to be saved, and this salvation cannot be taken away.
Texts and More Information:
There are multiple denominations within Presbyterianism. The main 2 in the U.S. are: The Presbyterian Church of America (PCA) and The Presbyterian Church USA (PCUSA) – For more: Presbyterian Denominations
Anglicanism
Anglicans follow 3 Creeds, or statements of faith, including the Nicene Creed (The Universal Church), the Athanasius’ Creed (about The Trinity), and the Apostle’s Creed.
Sacraments* & Rituals
*Note: Only Baptism and Holy Communion are considered to be sacraments in the Anglican Church. They view Confirmation, Penance, Holy Orders, Matrimony, Absolution, and Anointing of the Sick being founded by “the corrupt following of the Apostles,” and thus are not considered sacraments of the Gospel with a true scriptural basis, but are considered “sacramental rites.”
Baptism – Anglicans allow for infant baptisms. They believe that through Baptism, the Holy Spirit’s gifts are visibly signed and sealed. Baptism confirms faith, and increases grace. It is a sign of re-birth and the promise of the forgiveness of sins.
Confirmation – Confirmation is considered a sacramental rite, not necessarily a sacrament itself, in the Anglican Church. It is a mature commitment to Christ, and it includes the laying of the hands by a bishop in which we receive the Holy Spirit’s strength through prayer. One can only be confirmed if one is first baptized, sorry for one’s sins, and has received sufficient education within the Christin faith.
Holy Communion – Anglicans believe that only those who are worthy and with faith may receive Communion. They also refer to it as the Eucharist, which means “thanksgiving.” They believe that the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ in a spiritual, or heavenly manner. They reject Transubstantiation, or the complete transformation of the bread/wine into Jesus’ Body/Blood. Like Catholicism, they believe in the “real presence” of Christ in the Eucharist, which means that God is truly present even though we may not know how. (See: The Anglican Mission, Deeper Theology, Anglican Pastor on Communion, Church of England)
Marriage – According to their catechism,
A. Holy Matrimony is Christian marriage, in which the woman and man enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows. (BCP, 861)
Marriage is not, however, considered a sacrament in the Anglican Church. To be married within the church, both parties must be baptized, and any exception requires the bishop’s permission. The Anglican Church recognizes nullity or divorce, and it allows for individuals to re-marry given certain criteria and approval from a bishop. It teaches that sexual relations are only for married couples, and same-sex unions cannot be blessed or legitimatized.
(See: Anglican’s Online, Anglican Wedding Dogma)
Holy Orders – Ordination, or Holy Orders, is the rite in which God gives authority and the grace of the Holy Spirit to those being made bishops, priests and deacons, through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop. Traditionally, only males can receive this rite, however, there have been many instances of women ordinations throughout different parts of the world. Interestingly enough, the Anglican Church was close to reconciling with Rome centuries after the Reformation, reaching an understanding of many of the disputed topics differing between the two, but allowing for women ordination counter-acted this progress, according to this Article. (For more: Anglican Church in North America, Differing Views on Women Priests), Journal Article, A Catholic Perspective)
Absolution – Confession, Absolution, Reconciliation, and Penance are all names for this rite practiced by Anglicans in which individuals can confess sins to God in front of a Priest in order to receive the grace of absolution, or forgiveness. In the Anglican Church, confession is not required. In fact, most confess publicly in each Sunday service through a prayer known as a “General Confession.” (For more: Anglican Confession, Anglican Confession Summary)
Anointing of the Sick – The Anointing of the Sick, sometimes called Extreme Unction, is the anointing of the sick with oil. It is a sacramental rite, which is believed to give God’s graces of the healing of spirit, mind and body (Anglican Anointing of the Sick).
Church Leadership
But there is no central authority in the Anglican Communion. All of the provinces are autonomous and free to make their own decisions in their own ways – guided by recommendations known as “Instruments of Unity.” The Anglican Church has bishops, priests, and deacons. It does not follow the Roman Catholic Pope, and each leader is permitted to marry at his own discretion.
Role of Mary & Saints
Anglicans believe Mary to be the Mother of God. They are closer than most Christian Denominations toward accepting the Immaculate Conception, or the belief that Mary, too, was conceived in her mother’s womb free from original sin. There is no formal position on the Assumption, either, or the belief that Mary was taken body and soul into heaven at the end of her life. (See Immaculate Conception Journal, The Assumption). Although the Anglican Church does not officially teach invocation toward Mary or the saints, theologians are beginning to understand the Catholic practice, according to The Guardian. Anglicans believe in a devotion to Mary. Some may even pray a rosary (not the same as the Catholic Rosary), using prayer beads, according to Anglican Pastor. (For more: Anglican Prayers)
Salvation
Anglicans believe in faith through scripture alone as being necessary for salvation. They believe that after Baptism, it is possible to fall into grave sin again, but if we repent and remain in good faith, we will be eternally rewarded. Some, however, can fall from grace, and will be eternally damned. They refute the existence of purgatory.
Texts
- The Bible
- The Book of Common Prayer (BCP) is the collection of services from Anglican churches used for centuries, originating in 1549; since then, different countries have used additional service books, but this remains significant as a book that unites Anglicans internationally
- The Thirty-Nine Articles are Anglican Statements of faith that originated during the Reformation, which gives a great overview of Anglican beliefs
- Various Catechisms exist (with questions and answers for adults or young adults seeking baptism/confirmation)
For More Information:
Episcopalianism
Episcopalians are Anglicans located within the United States. Episcopalianism is merely a specific province which is part of the greater, international Anglican Communion. (See Anglican vs Episcopalian, Historical & Subtle Differences). The biggest differences between the Church of England (Anglicanism) and Episcopalianism regard the time in which each was found, as well as when female ordination was recognized. Additionally, the Episcopal Church will allow for Bishops to bless (at their discretion) same-sex marriages; however, this act removed the Episcopalian province from being a voting member of the Anglican Communion in 2016
Methodism
Methodism stems from the early 1700’s Anglicanism. John Wesley, an Anglican minister from the Church of England, partook in a bible study in Oxford, and its participants became known as ‘The Holy Club’ or ‘Methodists.’ He had a profound spiritual experience that he described as a “warming of his heart” by Christ, and this eventually led him to become a street preacher. Wesley became known for preaching “radical ideas,” and even though he intended to stay within the Anglican Church, the Church of England distanced itself from Wesley and his followers. He formed a yearly conference for his followers before he died, whose members became known as “Methodist.” Years after his death, different followers were expelled from the Methodist movement. Today, the main divisions within Methodism include Wesleyan Methodists, Primitive Methodists, and the United Methodist Church.
Here are the main 4 teachings of Methodism:
- A is free not only to reject salvation but also to accept it by an act of free will.
- All people who are obedient to the gospel according to the measure of knowledge given them will be saved.
- The Holy Spirit assures a Christian of their salvation directly, through an inner “experience” (assurance of salvation).
- Christians in this life are capable of Christian perfection and are commanded by God to pursue it- Fundamental Methodist Ideas
Sacraments* and Rituals
*Only Communion and Baptism are considered sacraments in the Methodist Church.
Baptism – Methodists will baptize children. It is a symbol of re-birth in Christ, and it is view as a sacrament that can only be celebrated once (Baptism).
Holy Communion – Methodists believe that anyone can receive communion. Children are allowed to receive communion as well as non-baptized persons who believe (Frequent Questions). Methodists reject the idea of transubstantiation, but their description of Christ’s presence in the sacrament is more described as a mystery they do not try to unravel (Communion Mystery). Communion is offered at different frequencies in different churches. Only the pastor may consecrate communion.
Marriage – Marriage is viewed as a “sacred covenant” but not a sacrament. Methodists allow for interfaith marriages. The Church does not recognize same-sex marriages, and the pastor officiates the marriage (Marriage). It allows for divorce and remarriage (Divorce/Remarriage)
Confirmation – Confirmation is a profession of faith when one reaches a ready age in front of the congregation (Confirmation)
Confession – Methodists confess sins before God and one another. For more: Confession
Ordination – This is the process of being ordained a minister in the Methodist Church (Ordination)
(See also Covenant Services, Logic & Reason)
Church Leadership
Both men and women are allowed to be ordained (Women Leadership). Ministers are also permitted to marry. There is a form of hierarchy in how the church is organized in some parts of the world. For example, in Britain, there are many circuits with individual churches, with a senior minister that leads each circuit. Circuits make up a District, which has a Chair (similar to a Bishop in the Anglican Church), and each District has a District Synod responsible for implementing policies. There is an annual conference for all districts led by additional leaders. There is even a worldwide organization known as the World Methodist Council, which originated in 1951, and meets every 5 years.
Role of Mary and saints
They view Mary as the virgin mother of Christ. Methodists celebrate November 1, All Saint’s Day, but they do not believe saints can mediate between heaven and earth and thus do not ask for their intercession. They consider saints to be important Christian role models, though. (Saints)
Salvation
Methodists believe in the notion of original sin, and they believe that a person can lose salvation, but it rejects the Calvinist idea of predestination. They believe that only God chooses who He will save, and we are not the judges of salvation. Thus, salvation is available to all, but not guaranteed to those who reject Jesus. Methodists also reject the idea of Purgatory and do not have a clear teaching about what happens in between death and the final judgement (Salvation, After death). They believe in the resurrection of the dead, and in both heaven and hell.
Texts & More Information:
- The Articles of Religion are 24 basic statements of faith written by John Wesley in 1784.
- The Confession of Faith contains 16 articles, is from The Evangelical United Brethren Church, and was adopted by the General Conference in 1962.
- The General Rules of the Methodist Church were also created by John Wesley to help members of the Church keep one another accountable in living virtuous lives.
- Wesley also had many sermons and notes on the bible
- Social Principles and Social Creed
BBC Overview of Methodism
Methodist resources
More History
Baptists
Sacraments* & Rituals
*Note: only baptism and communion are considered “sacraments” in the Baptist Church, but even then, they are more rightly termed “ordinances.” According to some Baptists, a sacrament is “an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace” (Sacrament vs Ordinance).
Baptism – For Baptists, baptism is a sign of entering into the Christian community. It is a sign of our death and entering into the Kingdom of God as a new-birth and a symbol of the cleansing of our sins. Anyone can be baptized as long as he has faith in Jesus. Children should be at least 12 years old in order to make a true profession of faith, and thus infants are not baptized because they are unable to. Baptisms should be performed by full-immersion. Those who were baptized as infants should be re-baptized at an age they can profess the faith (Baptist Church Example)
Communion – Communion is offered about once a month, but it depends on the church. Baptists believe that Jesus is spiritually present, but not physically present in the bread and wine. Only professing Christians are invited to partake in communion. Pastors or elders may celebrate the sacrament, and any man or woman may help distribute it. It is very symbolic and not necessary for salvation.
Marriage – Baptists as a whole believe that marriage is between one man and one woman, and any ceremony must be officiated by licensed or ordained elders of the Church. Some churches have left the official Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) and have allowed for same-sex marriages despite church doctrine. Baptists allow for, but do not encourage divorce (Wedding Pre-Requisites, Biblical Purpose of Marriage, Marriage Ceremony, Gay Marriage, Divorce).
Church Leadership
Churches are led by senior ministers, deacons, and other congregational leaders. There is a lot of autonomy among Baptist Churches, and thus no regulated process for becoming an ordained minister or pastor. The local-authority of each church is one thing that makes Baptists unique amongst other Protestant branches. There is not a hierarchy of any other administration or control, and doctrines are up to the lay-members within each church. Some churches belong to a convention like the Southern Baptist Convention, for example, in which each church is united and not as independent in doctrine or official processes (See more for Baptist Leadership).
Role of Mary & Saints
Baptists honor Mary, but do not ask for her intercession. They claim that Catholics worship or pray-to Mary, so Baptist veneration is different; although, I beg to disagree that this is the official Catholic teaching of Marian theology (Baptist Veneration of Mary). They believe in the virgin birth, but they do not recognize any other Marian mysteries.
Salvation
Baptists believe in salvation in grace through faith alone. Baptism is not necessary for salvation, in fact even some who are baptized will not be saved. However, salvation is assured for those who believe in Jesus, and the only way to do this is through reading and understanding scripture. Now, there are differing views about predestination in different Baptist denominations. Some support the Calvinist theology, while others follow Arminius, who believed that God can allow anyone to be saved as long as he chooses to follow His teachings.
Texts and More Information:
Baptists believe the bible is the only authority for Christian belief and practice.
Quakers (Society of Friends)
The Society of Friends began with George Fox, who left home at 19 in the mid 1600’s on a spiritual quest. He had many questions for leaders of the Church, but nobody appeared to understand him or could answer his questions. He grew to believe that God had given him an answer within himself, and in 1647, he heard a voice say,
“there is one, even Christ Jesus, who can speak to thy condition.”
He grew to have a “new understanding” of the human-divine relationship and dedicated his life to sharing this knowledge. Although he never intended to form another religious sect and viewed his finding to be a universal truth from the origins of Christianity, Quakers use his story to support their belief that trusting in Jesus and His life can help lead to new understandings (For more: Meet the Quakers)
Sacraments* & Rituals
*Note: Most Quakers believe that how a person lives his or her life is a sacrament, and any formal observance of sacraments in a traditional sense are not needed.
Baptism – For Quakers, baptism is an inward, not outward, act, so there is no spiritual pouring of water. In order to join the Church, one must simply participate in a meeting and continue to do so while becoming fully immersed in the silent meeting. After awhile, the Society may allow one to formally apply.
Communion – Instead of commemorating the Lord’s Supper, Friends focus on the theory of spiritual communion with God through silent meditation.
Marriage – Couples make commitments to one another in the presence of God, their family and friends. They do not have any officiate, for they believe that only God can join a couple in matrimony. (Although, they are not legally recognized by the U.S. due to not having a licensed witness).
Social Testimonies – These are commitments that Friends’ believe (For more- Brief Overview):
- Peace Testimony – Friends’ oppose war in all forms
- Testimony of Simplicity – Friends’ strive to live with God in the center of their lives, so living with material simplicity
- Testimony of Equality – Friends’ believe in the equality of all people, and thus reject titles or positions of prestige; they value those viewed as inferior
- Testimony of Integrity – Friends’ believe in acting according to one’s beliefs, and thus living open and authentic lives
Waiting Worship – Worship is based on Friends’ sitting together in observant silence for an hour, with some speaking or singing if they feel moved by the Holy Spirit.
Friends’ Decision Making Process – There is no voting in the Quaker community. Rather, decisions are made in a similar expectant-waiting manner as their worship services. There is a greater focus on discernment for what God’s will is for the community, and once it has been revealed, all accept it as His will.
Church Leadership
Quakers view priests and religious leaders as unnecessary obstructions of the power of God. Those who are viewed as “leaders” by the public are viewed more as gifted discerners of God’s will by members.
Role of Mary & Saints
There isn’t really Marian theology for Quakers. They don’t focus on creeds or dogmas of orthodox Christianity; rather, they focus on revelation through the Holy Spirit.
Salvation
There is no official Quaker teaching on what happens after death. The Society of Friends is far more focused on living a wholesome and loving life helping those of this world. Some believe in an after-life, while others do not. They do not believe in an inherited original sin from Adam and Eve. They believe that humans are innocent, and that mankind is good.
Texts and More Information:
Here’s a great place to begin: QuakerInfo.Org, BBC: Quakers
- The Scriptures are viewed as very useful, but they only scratch the surface of what God has to offer (See “What we believe”). Nonetheless, it is perfect and inspired by God.
- Quakers rely heavily on additional revelations from the Holy Spirit.
- There are no official creeds in the Society of Friends. The only teaching they universally agree upon is:
“God is love”
- And everything stems from this belief
At the bottom of this article, there is a brief overview of the different groups of modern-day Quakers: Diversity of Quakers
Quakers vs Christian Fundamentalism
Are Quakers Christian?
Evangelicalism
Evangelicals mirror many Christian denominations, with some more distinct factors believing in the unique term “born again,” the infallibility of the Bible, as well as it’s interpretation of Christ’s second coming. (See Britannica History for more). They also refrain from liturgical worship during services.
Sacraments & Rituals
Baptism – Baptism is viewed as a sign of initiation for the believer who has accepted Jesus Christ as one’s personal savior. Some evangelicals will baptize children, but most will wait until they are of consenting age, at least 13. Baptism does not mean that one is immediately a member of the Evangelical community. It is not necessary for salvation, either, for one’s sins are believed to be cleansed the moment one accepts Jesus as a personal savior. Baptism is much more symbolic of this inner grace. Baptism can be by sprinkling, pouring, or by immersion, if requested.
Holy Communion – Evangelicals basically reject the term Eucharist that many other Protestant denominations and the Catholic Church use to refer to communion. Often the service involves grape juice and unleavened bread wafers, or even loaves of modern bread to commemorate the Last Supper. It is not celebrated in churches often, and averages about 3-4 times per year. It is viewed as an outward sign of the inner grace of Jesus’ Body and Blood, but in a spiritual, not physical presence. Evangelicals practice “open communion” for all baptized, professing Christians (Former Evangelist Discusses Sacraments).
Marriage – This is not viewed as a sacrament in the Evangelical Church. It is more of a “social institution” that can be blessed by the church. The church is viewed as being more conservative in order to preserve the sanctity of the traditional family (anti-divorce, anti-gay-marriage, pro-life, etc.) – Evangelical on Family Life.
For more: Evangelical Sacraments
Church Leadership
Evangelical Christianity is a rather broad term, encompassing some communities within the Methodist Church, the Baptist Church, and some evangelical Anglicans. The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE) was founded in 1942, and it represents over 40 denominations. It’s goal is to influence society in a Christ-like manner and to unite evangelical Christians across the nation. (See NAE)
Role of Mary & Saints
Evangelicals hold the traditional view of Mary as the virgin mother of Christ, but they do not ask for her or the saints’ intercessions. (For more: Mary Speculation)
Salvation
Evangelicals are known for believing in a personal experience in which individuals are “born again” or “saved.” This must happen at an age of reason, often in young adulthood. It is a personal conversion experience for all believers. There is no way for someone to “earn” their way into heaven by performing good works; rather, salvation is through faith alone. Similar to the Left Behind series, many Evangelics believe in the second coming of Christ through the form of a rapture. They believe He will “rapture” believers into heaven, while non-believers will remain on Earth for 7 years of tribulation.
Texts and More Information:
Pentecostalism
Pentecostalism began in the early 1900’s, so it is relatively new considering the timelines of other Christian denominations. It is not a church itself, but it is a movement with many different churches. In 1906, at a revival on Azusa Street, an evangelist spoke about the speaking in tongues, baptism, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It’s name stems from the biblical passage on the event of Pentecost, in which people were baptized by the Holy Spirit 50 days after Jesus’ Resurrection. There are different Pentecostal groups and denominations today, each stemming from 3 separate revival “waves” throughout the 1900’s. There are many differences between these sects, but here, I will try to focus on the shared core beliefs.
Most accept all Christian mainstream beliefs, with exception of the Oneness movement, which rejects the Trinity and views Jesus Christ as the only Godhead (See BBC on Pentecostalism)
Sacraments* & Rituals
*Pentecostalism does not have sacraments, but rather ordinances and rituals.
Baptism – Baptism by immersion is practiced in water as well, as an outward symbol of an already-completed inner-conversion. Infant baptism is not practiced. The inner conversion is prioritized over baptism by water. Infants are instead blessed and dedicated to God, raised in the teachings, and then baptized by 7-10 at the discretion of their parents and pastors. There is also baptism by the Holy Spirit, which may follow years after a water baptism. Many Pentecostals believe that baptism in the Holy Spirit begins when one first speaks in tongues, and once one is baptized in the spirit, the Holy Spirit is believed to be within the person, empowering them for the rest of their lives. The Holy Spirit may also gift the individual with love, prophecy, healing, faith, etc., according to Mark 16:17-18.
The Last Supper – Rather than acknowledge any spiritual or physical presence of Jesus in their reenactment of the Last Supper with bread and grape juice, they view the ceremony as a symbolic moment of “accountability,” uniting Christians, and allowing them to experience the Holy Spirit. (For more: The Last Supper, Pentecostalism on Communion)
Foot-washing – This is viewed as an ordinance of humility in some Pentecostal churches.
Speaking in Tongues – This phenomena is followed by baptism by the Holy Spirit, in which an individual speaks in a language unknown to others or the speaker himself. It can be seen as a sign of baptism by the Holy Spirit or that one has the gift of tongues.
Marriage – There are many different views of marriage between the different Pentecostal denominations and sects. For most, it is a life-long commitment between a man and a woman, blessed by God. Some do not believe in divorce and remarriage, while others do (For more: brief summary, Assemblies of God on “Waiting for Marriage”, Apostolic Pentecostal Church on “Real Love and Marriage”)
Church Leadership
Both men and women can serve as ministers, missionaries, and even pastors in some cases. There is a variety of hierarchy within each church, but for some examples check-out: Pentecostal Church Hierarchy.
Role of Mary & Saints
Pentecostals believe in the virgin birth of Jesus, and in the holiness of saints, but neither are viewed as mediators. Some will even go so far as to say her veneration is Satan’s doing (Mary in Pentecostal/Protestant Churches)
Salvation
Most Pentecostals believe in the literal interpretation of the bible. They also believe in both heaven and hell for the respective righteous/unrighteous. They believe in salvation through faith alone, and no works will merit heaven; rather, good works simply derive from those with faith (First Pentecostal Church: Salvation).
Texts & More Information:
(Trinitarian) Pentecostal Churches in the West include:
- Apostolic Church
- Assemblies of God
- Association of Vineyard Churches
- Church of God (Cleveland)
- Church of God in Christ
- Church of God of Prophecy
- Elim Pentecostal
- Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship
- Hillsong Church
- International Church of the Foursquare Gospel
- International Pentecostal Holiness Church
- Pentecostal Assemblies of the World
- United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI)
(Non-trinitarian) Oneness churches include:
- United Pentecostal Church International
- Pentecostal Assemblies of the World
Pentecostal Articles of Faith (Western)
Brief Overview of Pentecostalism
CONGRATS!!
If you made it this far through this lengthy page, I am very proud of your intent to learn. I hope these online resources were helpful in trying to distinguish between various beliefs of different Christian denominations.
LG❥
Pursuit of Truth 
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