Protestantism

Definition

Protestantism is a branch of Christianity that originated with the 16th-century Reformation, a movement against what its followers perceived to be errors in the Roman Catholic Church.

Related terms

Reformation: This was a religious movement in the 16th century that resulted in the establishment of the Protestant churches. It was led by Martin Luther who protested against certain practices of the Roman Catholic Church.

Lutheranism: This is one of the largest branches of Protestantism that identifies with the teachings of Martin Luther, a 16th century German reformer whose efforts to reform the theology and practice of the church launched the Protestant Reformation.

Calvinism: Named after John Calvin, this is another major branch of Protestantism that follows theological traditions set down by John Calvin, emphasizing predestination and salvation through grace alone.