Glossary of Protestantism

March 19, 2024 · updated March 19, 2024

Amish
Conservative Anabaptist sect led by Jakob Amman that separated from the Mennonites in Switzerland around 1693. The development of more liberal sects occurred after many Amish migrated to the United States, particularly in the 1870s.
Baptists
A Protestant denomination centered around the belief that the sacrament of baptism should only be administered to adult members after a personal profession of belief in Jesus Christ. Baptism in this faith is usually done by full immersion.
Evangelicalism
A tradition within Protestant Christianity emphasizing active evangelism, personal conversion and faith experiences, and Scripture as the sole basis for theology and practice.
Lutheranism
Refers to the Protestant body derived from the Reformation of Martin Luther (1483-1546). Like most other Protestant denominations, Lutheranism emphasizes the importance of scripture rather than church authority..
Lutheranism
Refers to the Protestant body derived from the Reformation of Martin Luther (1483-1546). Like most other Protestant denominations, Lutheranism emphasizes the importance of scripture rather than church authority..
Methodism
A Protestant denomination emphasizing a close personal relationship with God, the importance of the Holy Spirit, and a strong belief in the historical doctrines of Christianity.
Presbyterianism
One of the main Protestant groups that arose out of the 16th-century Reformation. The term presbyterian also denotes a collegiate type of church government led by pastors and lay leaders called elders or presbyters..
Quakers
A Christian sect that arose in the mid-17th century in England and the American colonies, advocating direct inward apprehension of God, emphasizing the immediacy of Christ's teaching and guidance, and rejecting outward rites and an ordained ministry.
sola fide
(Latin, "faith alone"). Martin Luther's doctrine that faith is all that is necessary for salvation. It remains a core doctrine for many Protestants today.
Universalism
Specifically the liberal Protestant denomination active in the United States and Canada, starting first as an organized movement in the 18th century and achieving denominational status in the 19th century.