* Origin: The word "Protestant" derives from the Protest of Speyer in 1529, a document signed by German princes who protested against the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V's attempts to suppress the Lutheran Reformation.
* Key Beliefs: While Protestant denominations share a common history and certain key beliefs, they also have significant differences in theology and practice. Some core tenets include:
* Sola Scriptura: The Bible is the sole source of religious authority.
* Salvation by Faith Alone: Justification (being declared righteous before God) is achieved solely through faith in Jesus Christ, not through good works.
* Priesthood of All Believers: All Christians have equal access to God and do not need a priest as an intermediary.
* The Importance of Grace: God's grace is freely given, not earned.
* Denominations: There are many different Protestant denominations, including:
* Lutheran: Emphasizes the teachings of Martin Luther, including the importance of scripture and justification by faith alone.
* Calvinist: Focuses on the teachings of John Calvin, emphasizing predestination and God's sovereignty.
* Baptist: Believes in adult baptism by immersion and the autonomy of individual churches.
* Methodist: Founded by John Wesley, emphasizing personal experience of God's grace and social justice.
* Presbyterian: Emphasizes the importance of church government by elders (presbyters).
* Pentecostal: Emphasizes spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues and divine healing.
* Other Points:
* Not a monolithic group: Protestant churches are diverse in their beliefs and practices.
* Ongoing evolution: Protestant denominations continue to evolve and adapt over time.
It's important to note that the term "Protestant" can be somewhat controversial, as some groups may prefer to identify themselves by their specific denomination.