Protestant Christianity

Overview:

Protestant Christianity is not necessarily a denomination. It is a branch of Christianity under which are numerous denominations. Protestantism came about in the 16th Century when some believers broke off from the Catholic Church. For this reason, many denominations still bear a close resemblance to Catholicism in certain practices and traditions.

Doctrine:

The sacred text used by most Protestants is the Bible alone, which is considered the only spiritual authority. The exceptions are Lutherans and Episcopalians/Anglicans who sometimes use the Apocrypha for assistance and interpretation. Some Protestant denominations also use the Apostles’ Creed and Nicene Creed, while others adhere to no creed and just desire to focus on scripture.

Sacraments:

Most Protestant denominations believe that there are only two sacraments: baptism and communion.

Angels and Demons:

Protestants believe in angels, but they are not a focus for most denominations. Meanwhile, the view of Satan differs among denominations. Some believe Satan is a real, evil being, and other see him as a metaphor.

Salvation:

A person is saved through faith alone. Once a person is saved, salvation is unconditional. Those who have never heard of Christ will be saved.

Mary and the Saints:

Most Protestants see Mary as the virgin mother of Jesus Christ. However, they do not use her for mediation between God and man. They see her as a model for Christians to follow. While Protestants believe that those believers who have died are all saints, they do not pray to saints for intercession. Some denominations have special days for saints, but saints are not as important to Protestants as they are for Catholics.

Heaven and Hell:

To Protestants, Heaven is a real place where Christians will connect with and adore God. It is the final destination. Good works can be done only because God asks us to do them. They will not serve to get one into Heaven. Meanwhile, Protestants also believe that there is an eternal Hell where non-believers will spend eternity. There is no purgatory for Protestants.