Which Protestant Christian Denomination?

In this article, I want to explore some of the major Protestant denominations. I will not be covering Roman Catholicism or Eastern Orthodoxy here—I plan to address those later.

The goal of this article is to help you understand the defining characteristics of the major denominations, why we have them, and why I chose the one I am in.

Why Do We Have Denominations?

We have denominations because, at the end of the day, Christians disagree on certain theological issues. While most agree on the core doctrines of the Christian faith, we differ on what scholars call “second” and “third-level” issues. Because of these differences, groups have historically separated rather than unite under teachings they believe are in error.

This comes with both pros and cons. On one hand, it allows people to follow their convictions. On the other, it can fracture unity. The balance is to participate faithfully within your denomination while still recognizing believers in other traditions as brothers and sisters in Christ. Our unity in Jesus transcends denominational boundaries.

What Are the Different Denominations?

One way to distinguish denominations is by looking at “high-church” vs. “low-church” traditions. High-church groups place strong emphasis on authority and tradition, while low-church groups emphasize congregational freedom and simplicity. Another way is the theological spectrum—conservative vs. liberal—depending on how strictly they interpret and apply Scripture. 

Note: These are brief explanations, research and experience each individually to have best understanding. 

Anglican – Blending Catholic and Protestant elements, Anglicans emphasize unity in diversity. They are the closest Protestant denomination to Catholicism in practice and theology. Their regional groups differ in leadership, worship style, and sacramental theology. Notable figures: C.S. Lewis, George H.W. Bush, J.K. Rowling.

Lutheran – Emerging from Martin Luther’s Reformation, Lutherans emphasize justification by faith and strong liturgical traditions. They differ among themselves in interpretation of Scripture, worship style, and social issues. Major groups include ELCA, LCMS, and WELS. Notable figures: Martin Luther, J.S. Bach, C.F.W. Walther.

Presbyterian – Strongly rooted in Calvinism, Presbyterians emphasize God’s sovereignty, covenant theology, and elder-led church governance. Different groups vary in their approach to Calvinism, evangelism, and social issues. Major groups include PCA, OPC, and RPCNA. Notable figures: John Calvin, Ronald Reagan, Redeemed Zoomer.

Methodist – Originating as a revival movement under John and Charles Wesley, Methodists emphasize personal holiness, social action, and community life. They focus less on detailed theology and more on living out the faith. Today the two largest groups are the United Methodist Church and the Global Methodist Church, which split in 2022 over biblical interpretations of social issues. Notable figures: John and Charles Wesley, Fanny Crosby, Nelson Mandela.

Congregationalist – Congregationalists emphasize the autonomy of local churches, individual conscience, and the priesthood of all believers. They often practice infant baptism and maintain diverse worship styles. Major groups include the United Church of Christ and NACCC. Notable figures: Robert Browne, John Greenwood.

Baptist – Baptists emphasize believer’s baptism, biblical authority, congregational governance, and evangelism. Different Baptist groups divide over theological emphasis, denominational structure, and social issues. Major groups include the SBC, Independent Baptists, and ABA. Notable figures: Roger Williams, John Leland, Thomas Helwys.

Pentecostal – Pentecostals emphasize the work of the Holy Spirit through spiritual gifts, emotional worship, and personal encounters with God. They are generally Arminian in theology, the opposite of Presbyterian Calvinism. Groups differ in how strongly they emphasize miraculous gifts. Major groups include Assemblies of God (AG), COGIC, and UPCI. Notable figures: William J. Seymour, Aimee Semple McPherson, Oral Roberts, Denzel Washington.

Non-Denominational – Non-denominational churches are independent congregations that do not formally affiliate with a denomination. They emphasize freedom from denominational structures, focusing instead on a simple expression of faith centered on the Bible, worship, and community. Their beliefs often align with evangelical traditions, especially Baptist or Pentecostal, but vary widely depending on the church. Non-denominational churches are popular among younger generations seeking authentic community over institutional identity. Notable examples: Calvary Chapel movement, many megachurches like Life.Church.

How to Choose a Denomination

Each denomination brings unique strengths and weaknesses. They often highlight certain biblical truths while risking overemphasis or neglect of others. That’s why it is important to learn from one another while remembering we are united in Christ.

Still, every believer should commit to a local church. The best way to choose is by studying Scripture yourself, praying for the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and discerning which church most faithfully aligns with biblical teaching and practice.

Personally, I am a Southern Baptist because I believe the Baptist Faith & Message 2000 most closely reflects biblical truth, especially in its emphasis on believer’s baptism, biblical authority, and balanced theology. While not perfect, I love the SBC’s focus on the Great Commission and cooperative work. Attending the SBC annual meeting in 2022 was deeply inspiring, as I saw thousands of Baptists united in mission.

Conclusion

Denominations matter, but they are not everything. They give us structure, identity, and clarity, yet they must never replace our unity in Christ. While we draw lines on issues of doctrine and practice, those lines should not turn into walls of arrogance or hostility.

We can and should remain distinct, but always as family in Christ—learning from each other, growing together, and ultimately pointing back to the One who unites us: Jesus.