Denominaciones

The Way

The Way was the name used by the earliest followers of Jesus Christ to describe their movement in the first century. Beginning in Jerusalem shortly after Christ’s resurrection (c. 30 AD), it was not yet called “Christianity.” The term appears several times in the Book of Acts, referring to the believers’ devotion to the teachings, life, and resurrection of Jesus. These early Christians emphasized fellowship, breaking of bread, prayer, repentance, and faith in Jesus as the Messiah. They were distinguished by their obedience to the apostles’ teaching and their commitment to living holy, Spirit-filled lives.

The Way spread quickly beyond Jerusalem to cities such as Antioch, Ephesus, and Rome, forming local communities under the guidance of elders and deacons. Members were called Christians for the first time in Antioch (Acts 11:26), but “The Way” remained a common descriptor for some time. This movement maintained strict adherence to Scripture and the gospel, sought to live in moral purity, and faced persecution from both Jewish authorities and the Roman Empire. The Way laid the foundation for all later Christian denominations, as it was the direct continuation of the teachings and practices of the apostles.

Montanism

Montanism was a Christian movement that arose around 156 AD in Phrygia, Asia Minor, founded by Montanus, with two prominent prophetesses, Priscilla and Maximilla. The movement emphasized the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, including new prophecies and revelations, and called believers to a life of strict moral discipline, fasting, and asceticism. Montanists believed that the New Jerusalem would soon descend in Phrygia, and they expected an imminent end of the world. Their teachings encouraged ecstatic worship, intense spiritual experiences, and a heightened sense of urgency and holiness.

While Montanism arose as a reform movement within early Christianity, seeking greater spiritual fervor and purity, it was eventually condemned by mainstream church leaders. Critics argued that Montanists elevated their prophecies above Scripture, claimed new revelations that challenged apostolic authority, and promoted extreme asceticism. Despite this, Montanism influenced later Christian movements, especially in emphasizing the work of the Holy Spirit, prophetic gifts, and a call to holiness, leaving a lasting legacy on certain aspects of Christian spirituality.

Novationism

Novationism was a 3rd-century Christian movement that arose around 251 AD in Rome, led by Novatian, a presbyter who opposed the election of Cornelius, bishop of Rome. The movement emerged during the Decian persecution, a time when many Christians had renounced their faith under threat of death. Novatian and his followers believed that the Church should remain pure and that apostates or those who had committed serious sins could not be readmitted. They rejected the leniency of Cornelius, holding that forgiveness of grave sin was only possible through God’s direct mercy and not through the Church’s sacraments. This strict stance led to a schism, though the Novationists maintained orthodox Trinitarian and Christological beliefs.Despite their rigidity, Novationists were biblically faithful in core doctrine, upholding the deity and humanity of Christ, the resurrection, and salvation through faith in Him. Their primary issue was church discipline and purity, not theology. Novationist communities spread to parts of Italy, North Africa, and beyond, continuing their emphasis on moral rigor and separation from those they deemed unrepentant. Over time, the movement diminished, largely absorbed into broader orthodox Christianity, but it is historically significant as one of the earliest examples of a church schism motivated by concern for moral and spiritual purity.

Paulicianism

Paulicianism was a Christian movement that arose in 7th-century Armenia, traditionally attributed to a teacher named Constantine of Mananalis, though some sources call him Silvanus. The Paulicians sought to return to a simple, Scripture-focused faith, rejecting many of the formal and ritualistic practices of the Byzantine Church. They emphasized the authority of the Bible, personal morality, and the rejection of icons, images, and ecclesiastical hierarchy. Their teachings attracted followers in Armenia and eastern Anatolia, often appealing to people frustrated with clerical corruption and the wealth of the institutional church.

Despite some alignment with biblical morality and faith in Christ, the Paulicians are often described as dualistic in their theology. They reportedly viewed the material world as the creation of an evil principle (sometimes associated with Satan), while the spiritual realm belonged to the true God. This dualism conflicted with orthodox Christian teaching on creation, the goodness of God’s world, and the incarnation of Christ. Because of these theological deviations, Paulicianism was considered heretical by the Byzantine Church, though historians debate the extent to which dualistic ideas were original versus later attributions by opponents. The movement influenced later groups in the Balkans and possibly contributed to the development of Western dualist movements like the Cathars.

Waldensianism

Waldensianism was a Christian movement founded around 1170 in Lyon, France, by Peter Waldo, a wealthy merchant who gave up his possessions to live a life of poverty and preaching. The Waldensians emphasized strict adherence to the Bible, lay preaching, and a simple, humble lifestyle. They rejected the wealth and corruption they observed in the institutional church and sought to follow Christ’s teachings in practical ways, including care for the poor and moral living. They also advocated for translating the Scriptures into the vernacular so that ordinary people could read and understand them.

The movement was condemned by the Roman Catholic Church for bypassing clerical authority and was persecuted heavily over the centuries. Despite this, the Waldensians persisted, often in isolated mountain regions, and their teachings influenced later Protestant reformers during the Reformation. By emphasizing Scripture over ecclesiastical tradition, the Waldensians are considered one of the earliest precursors to modern Protestantism.

Lollardy

The Lollards were a pre-Reformation religious movement in 14th-century England, inspired by the teachings of John Wycliffe (c. 1320–1384). They emphasized the authority of Scripture over church tradition, promoted vernacular translations of the Bible, and criticized the moral and financial corruption of the clergy. Lollards rejected practices they saw as unbiblical, such as transubstantiation, the veneration of saints, and indulgences, while advocating for a simpler, more personal Christian faith. They were also known for their commitment to preaching, education, and moral reform within the laity.

Although never officially a formal denomination, the Lollards formed communities of believers who met secretly, especially after the English church hierarchy condemned their teachings as heretical. Their influence persisted into the 15th century and provided a significant precursor to the Protestant Reformation, particularly shaping early English Protestant thought and laying the groundwork for later reformers like William Tyndale and the Puritans. Despite persecution, their focus on Scripture, personal faith, and ethical living made them a key movement in the history of English Christianity.

Hussites

The Hussites were a pre-Reformation Christian movement that arose in early 15th-century Bohemia (modern-day Czech Republic), inspired by the teachings of Jan Hus (c. 1372–1415). Hus criticized corruption in the Catholic Church, including the sale of indulgences and the moral failings of the clergy. He emphasized the authority of Scripture over church tradition, called for moral reform, and advocated for the communion of both bread and wine for all believers, rather than withholding the cup from the laity. His teachings gained widespread support among the Czech population, particularly the common people and reform-minded intellectuals, but were condemned by church authorities, leading to his execution by burning at the stake in 1415.

Following Hus’s death, his followers organized into the Hussite movement, which split into several factions ranging from moderate reformers to radical groups. They fought the Hussite Wars (1419–1434) against forces loyal to the Catholic Church, defending their right to religious reform. Despite internal divisions, the Hussites preserved many principles later echoed in the Protestant Reformation, such as emphasis on Scripture, moral integrity, and access to the sacraments for all believers. Over time, moderate Hussites integrated with broader Protestant traditions, while more radical factions influenced later groups like the Moravian Brethren.

Brethren

The Brethren, also known historically as the Moravian Brethren or Unitas Fratrum, trace their roots to the 15th century in Bohemia and Moravia (modern-day Czech Republic). They emerged from the Hussite movement, which sought reform in the medieval church, emphasizing the authority of Scripture, moral integrity, and lay participation in worship. The Brethren sought to live in close-knit, disciplined communities, practicing simplicity, mutual accountability, and personal devotion. They placed strong emphasis on education, Scripture reading, and living out the teachings of Jesus in daily life, aiming to model the early church described in the New Testament.

Despite periods of severe persecution, the Brethren survived and influenced later Protestant movements. In the 18th century, leaders like Count Nicolaus Zinzendorf helped renew the Moravian Church, emphasizing global missions and ecumenical outreach. Their focus on heartfelt piety, communal living, and missionary work inspired aspects of modern Evangelicalism, Methodism, and other Protestant traditions. Today, the Brethren are recognized for their commitment to biblical faith, disciplined community life, and active evangelism.

Lutheranism

Lutheranism is a major branch of Protestant Christianity that emerged in the early 16th century during the Reformation, founded by Martin Luther in Wittenberg, Germany. It arose as a response to what Luther saw as widespread corruption and doctrinal errors in the Roman Catholic Church, particularly the sale of indulgences. Lutheran theology emphasizes justification by faith alone (sola fide), the authority of Scripture alone (sola scriptura), and the belief that salvation is entirely a gift of God’s grace, not something earned through human works. Lutheranism retains much of the traditional liturgy, sacraments, and devotional practices, but rejects papal authority and any teachings not grounded in the Bible.

The movement spread rapidly throughout Germany and Scandinavia, forming state churches in several regions. Lutheranism preserves two sacraments — Baptism and the Lord’s Supper — and teaches the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, though not transubstantiation. Its influence is seen in education, hymnody (thanks to Luther’s own contributions), and social reform. Today, Lutheran churches exist worldwide, continuing to uphold the Reformation principles while emphasizing both personal faith and communal worship in accordance with Scripture.

Anglicanism

Anglicanism is a branch of Christianity that originated in the 16th century in England during the reign of Henry VIII, who broke away from the Roman Catholic Church over disputes with the Pope regarding his divorce. While the split was initially political, it eventually developed into a distinct religious tradition combining elements of both Protestant theology and Catholic liturgical practice. Anglicans maintain the episcopal form of church government, with bishops overseeing dioceses, and place strong emphasis on the Book of Common Prayer as a guide for worship and spiritual life. The tradition values Scripture, reason, and tradition as sources of authority in theology and moral teaching.

Theologically, Anglicanism is broad, ranging from high church congregations that closely resemble Catholic liturgy to low church and evangelical parishes emphasizing preaching and personal conversion. Its hallmark is a middle way (“via media”) between Protestant and Catholic expressions of faith, seeking to retain historic continuity with the early Church while reforming practices deemed inconsistent with Scripture. Today, Anglicanism is a global communion, the Anglican Communion, including churches in the United Kingdom, North America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania, united by shared worship, governance, and the historic episcopate.

Calvinism

Calvinism is a branch of Protestant theology that emerged during the Reformation in the 16th century, primarily through the teachings of John Calvin in Geneva, Switzerland. It emphasizes the sovereignty of God over all creation and the belief that God predestines individuals to salvation or condemnation according to His divine will. Central doctrines include total depravity (humanity’s complete inability to save itself), unconditional election (God chooses whom to save apart from any merit), limited atonement (Christ’s death effectively saves the elect), irresistible grace (God’s saving grace cannot be rejected by those He chooses), and perseverance of the saints (true believers will endure in faith until the end). These principles are often summarized by the acronym TULIP.

Calvinism also emphasizes the authority of Scripture, the necessity of faith in Christ alone for salvation, and a disciplined, moral life as a response to God’s grace. It influenced not only theology but also church governance, favoring a Presbyterian or elder-led structure rather than hierarchical episcopacy. The movement spread across Europe, particularly in Switzerland, the Netherlands, Scotland, and France, and significantly shaped Reformed churches and Protestant thought worldwide. Calvinism’s focus on God’s sovereignty, biblical fidelity, and disciplined Christian living remains central to many Reformed traditions today.

Anabaptist

The Anabaptists arose in the early 16th century during the Protestant Reformation, primarily in Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands. The movement began around 1525 with leaders like Conrad Grebel, Felix Manz, and others who rejected infant baptism, arguing that baptism should be reserved for those who could consciously profess faith in Jesus Christ. This emphasis on believer’s baptism set them apart from both the Roman Catholic Church and other Protestant groups. Anabaptists also advocated for a simple, faithful lifestyle, separation of church and state, and pacifism, believing that Christians should live according to the teachings of Christ rather than worldly authority.

Because of their radical stance, Anabaptists faced severe persecution from both Protestant and Catholic authorities. Despite this, their teachings influenced later groups such as the Mennonites, Amish, and Hutterites, who preserved the core Anabaptist principles of voluntary church membership, adult baptism, nonviolence, and a strong emphasis on community. Today, Anabaptist-descended groups continue to uphold these values, emphasizing discipleship, obedience to Christ, and living out a distinct, faith-driven community life.

Presbyterianism

Presbyterianism is a branch of the Reformed tradition within Protestant Christianity, founded in the mid-16th century during the Reformation. Its roots are closely tied to the theology of John Calvin in Geneva, but it was established as a distinct movement in Scotland under John Knox around 1560. Presbyterian churches emphasize the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and justification by faith alone. They are known for their structured, representative form of church government, in which local congregations are governed by elders (presbyters), and higher assemblies, such as regional presbyteries and national synods, provide oversight, promoting accountability and unity without relying on a hierarchical episcopal system.

Theologically, Presbyterians uphold the core doctrines of Reformed Christianity, including predestination, covenant theology, and the centrality of the preaching of the Word. Worship is typically simple and Scripture-focused, with an emphasis on the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Presbyterianism spread from Scotland to England, Ireland, and later to North America, becoming particularly influential in the United States. It remains committed to teaching and practicing the faith according to biblical principles, combining disciplined governance with active engagement in community and mission.

Baptist

The Baptist movement began in the early 17th century among English-speaking exiles in Amsterdam, with John Smyth often credited as its first founder around 1609. Baptists emphasize believer’s baptism by full immersion, meaning that only those who consciously profess faith in Jesus Christ are baptized, rather than infants. This practice is rooted in the New Testament model of personal faith and repentance. From the start, Baptists stressed the authority of Scripture, the lordship of Christ, and the autonomy of the local congregation, rejecting hierarchical structures like episcopacies or papal authority.

Over time, the Baptist tradition spread widely through England, Europe, and especially North America, developing into multiple branches such as Southern Baptists, Free Will Baptists, and Primitive Baptists. Despite some differences in secondary doctrines, all Baptists maintain the core beliefs of salvation by grace through faith alone, the priesthood of all believers, and religious liberty, advocating that each local church governs itself independently. Their emphasis on evangelism, missions, and personal discipleship has made Baptists one of the largest Protestant groups in the world.

Quakers

The Quakers, or the Religious Society of Friends, were founded in 1652 in England by George Fox. They arose during a period of religious turmoil, seeking a direct and personal experience of God rather than relying on formal clergy, sacraments, or liturgical ritual. Quakers emphasize the “Inner Light”, the belief that God dwells within every person and can guide individuals directly in their faith and moral decisions. Their meetings are often held in silence, allowing participants to speak only when they feel spiritually moved, reflecting a strong commitment to listening for God’s guidance.

Quakers have historically been known for their pacifism, commitment to social justice, and egalitarian practices, including early advocacy for the abolition of slavery and women’s rights. They reject hierarchical church structures, emphasizing community, simplicity, honesty, and equality in daily life. While they are a Christian movement, their worship and theology are often non-traditional, focusing more on personal spiritual experience and ethical living than on formal doctrine or creeds.

Methodism

Methodism is a Protestant Christian movement that began in 18th-century England within the Church of England. It was founded by John Wesley (and his brother Charles Wesley), who emphasized a personal experience of salvation, holiness of life, and practical Christian living. Methodists stressed the need for conversion, disciplined spiritual practices, regular prayer, Bible study, and participation in the sacraments, but they were known for their itinerant preaching and evangelistic zeal, reaching both cities and rural areas. Their movement initially operated as a revivalist society within Anglicanism, seeking to reform and renew the church rather than create a separate denomination.

Over time, Methodism became a distinct denomination, especially after John Wesley’s death, spreading widely to America and around the world. It is characterized by an Arminian theology (emphasizing free will and the possibility of falling from grace), a strong focus on social justice and charitable works, and an organized connectional structure of conferences and clergy oversight. Today, Methodism includes multiple branches, such as the United Methodist Church, African Methodist Episcopal Church, and Free Methodist Church, all maintaining Wesley’s emphasis on faith in action, personal holiness, and heartfelt devotion to Christ.

Evangelicalism

Evangelicalism is a broad Protestant movement that emphasizes a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the authority of the Bible, and the necessity of being “born again” through faith. Evangelicals stress the importance of sharing the gospel, often called evangelism, and seek to apply biblical principles to everyday life. While the movement spans many denominations, its core beliefs include salvation by grace through faith, the centrality of Christ’s death and resurrection, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life. Historically, evangelicalism was shaped by revival movements in the 18th and 19th centuries, including figures such as John Wesley, George Whitefield, and Jonathan Edwards, who emphasized heartfelt conversion, personal piety, and moral living.

Evangelicalism also tends to prioritize practical Christianity, focusing on worship, prayer, missions, and social reform, while maintaining a strong commitment to Scripture as the ultimate authority. Unlike denominational movements with fixed hierarchical structures, evangelicalism is more of a shared set of beliefs and practices across churches, fostering unity among diverse groups who hold to these core principles. Today, evangelicals can be found worldwide, influencing both church life and culture while remaining committed to proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Restoration Movement

The Restoration Movement emerged in the early 19th century in the United States, primarily in Kentucky and Ohio, as a response to denominational divisions among Protestants. It was spearheaded by Barton W. Stone and Alexander Campbell, who sought to restore the simplicity and unity of the New Testament Church. The movement rejected creeds and denominational labels, emphasizing the Bible alone as the sole authority for faith and practice. Adherents believed that Christians should return to the practices of the first-century church, including weekly communion, believer’s baptism, and congregational governance, in order to reflect the original model of the early church.

The movement gave rise to several branches, most notably the Churches of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). While these groups differ in organizational structure and practices today, they share the core Restoration principle of seeking to unify Christians under the authority of Scripture alone. The Restoration Movement significantly influenced American Protestantism by inspiring a focus on biblical authority, congregational autonomy, and ecumenical unity, and its legacy continues in many independent and non-denominational churches worldwide.

Adventism

Adventism is a Christian movement that emerged in the United States in the 1830s and 1840s, centered on the belief in the imminent second coming (advent) of Jesus Christ. It arose from the Millerite movement, led by William Miller, who predicted Christ’s return based on interpretations of biblical prophecy. When Christ did not return as expected in 1844, a period known as the “Great Disappointment” occurred, but many followers reorganized and formed the foundations of modern Adventist groups. The movement emphasizes biblical authority, personal piety, and the hope of Christ’s literal, visible return.

Over time, Adventism developed distinct doctrinal beliefs. One of the largest Adventist bodies is the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which observes the Sabbath on Saturday, promotes holistic health and diet, and emphasizes the study of biblical prophecy, particularly in the books of Daniel and Revelation. Adventists also stress missionary work, education, and social service, seeking to prepare believers spiritually and practically for Christ’s return. While diverse in practice, all Adventist groups share the central conviction that living faithfully in light of Jesus’ imminent return is of primary importance.

Pentecostalism

Kansas (and 1906 Azusa Street, Los Angeles)

Pentecostalism is a Christian movement that emerged in the early 20th century, emphasizing the direct experience of the Holy Spirit by believers. It originated in the United States, with roots in revivals such as the 1901 Topeka, Kansas Bible school meetings led by Charles Parham and the 1906 Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles, led by William J. Seymour. Pentecostals emphasize the “baptism of the Holy Spirit” as a distinct experience after conversion, often evidenced by speaking in tongues (glossolalia), prophecy, healing, and other spiritual gifts. The movement draws its name from the day of Pentecost in Acts 2, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, empowering them for ministry.

Pentecostalism stresses a personal, vibrant relationship with God, evangelism, and holiness of life. It is highly experiential, encouraging believers to actively seek the gifts of the Spirit for ministry and personal growth. The movement quickly spread internationally, giving rise to many denominations and independent churches, including Assemblies of God, Church of God in Christ, and numerous charismatic and non-denominational congregations. Pentecostalism has had a significant impact on global Christianity, particularly in Africa, Latin America, and Asia, shaping worship styles, revivalism, and the modern charismatic movement.

Non-Denominationalism

Non-denominational Christianity refers to a movement of churches and congregations that do not formally align with any established Christian denomination, such as Baptist, Methodist, or Lutheran. These churches often emphasize a direct, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, the authority of the Bible, and practical Christian living over formal liturgy or hierarchical structures. Non-denominational congregations typically avoid denominational creeds or labels, focusing instead on the essentials of the Christian faith, such as salvation through faith in Christ, the importance of prayer and worship, and spreading the gospel.

Non-denominationalism became particularly prominent in the mid-20th century, especially in the United States, as part of the broader Evangelical movement. These churches are often autonomous, allowing pastors and leaders to shape worship styles, teaching, and community life according to local needs. While beliefs can vary widely, most non-denominational churches uphold core biblical doctrines such as the Trinity, the resurrection of Christ, and the authority of Scripture, making them broadly aligned with mainstream Protestant Christianity without formal denominational oversight.