Key Difference – Methodist vs Presbyterian
Methodists and Presbyterians both belong to the Protestant branch of Christianity, with each denomination having its own unique beliefs and practices. While they both strongly believe in Jesus as the savior of humanity, the manner in which they practice their faith differs.
Key Takeaways
- Methodism is a branch of the Protestant Church with nearly 70 million followers worldwide, founded by Wesley brothers Charles and John, who led a reform movement in the 18th century.
- Presbyterianism is a branch of the Protestant Church greatly influenced by the beliefs and teachings of 18th century French theologian John Calvin, who was himself influenced by the reform movement led by Martin Luther in Germany in the 16th century.
- Methodist beliefs include the idea that salvation can be attained by asking God for grace, whereas Presbyterian beliefs assert that humans need the grace of God for salvation and cannot seek God on their own.
Who is a Methodist?
Methodism is a branch of the Protestant Church with nearly 70 million followers around the world. It is credited to Wesley brothers Charles and John, who led a reform movement in the 18th century to rid Christianity of many dogmas and beliefs. Key features of Methodism include missionary work, service through hospitals, schools, and orphanages, and the spread of the gospel. The Wesley brothers and their followers set up a club and worked on ways to lead a holy life. Their method and approach were methodical, leading others to label them as Methodists. It was after the death of John Wesley that Methodists formed a separate denomination within the fold of Christianity.
Who is a Presbyterian?
The Presbyterian Church is a branch of the Protestant Church greatly influenced by the beliefs and teachings of John Calvin, the great 18th-century theologian from France. He, in turn, was influenced by the reform movement led by Martin Luther in Germany in the 16th century. This branch of Christianity originated in Scotland and spread to the Americas with the help of Scottish immigrants. The Church strongly believes in the supremacy of the Almighty and the Scriptures, and the emphasis is on the grace of God for the follower.
What is the difference between Methodist and Presbyterian?
Methodist and Presbyterian beliefs differ in terms of salvation and the role of grace. Methodists believe that humans can ask God for his grace to save themselves, even though they are fallen. In contrast, the Presbyterian Church believes that humans need the grace of God for their salvation, and they cannot seek God on their own. The Methodist Church teaches that all those who believe in Jesus will attain salvation, while the Presbyterian Church asserts that God has already chosen those he wants to save. Once God has chosen a person to be saved in the Presbyterian Church, that person is always saved. Methodism has its roots in the teachings of the Wesley brothers in the 18th century in England, while John Knox is believed to have founded the Presbyterian Church in Scotland based on the beliefs and teachings of John Calvin.
