Protestant Christian Vs. Reformed Christian: What’s The Difference?

What is Reformed Christianity and how did it originate?

Reformed Christianity is a branch of Protestant Christianity that emerged during the 16th-century Reformation, a time of great spiritual renewal and theological reassessment within the Church. This movement, born out of a desire to return to the pure teachings of Scripture, sought to reform the practices and doctrines of the Church that were perceived to have strayed from biblical foundations.

The origins of Reformed Christianity can be traced back to the work of reformers such as John Calvin in Geneva, Huldrych Zwingli in Zurich, and others who were inspired by Martin Luther’s initial call for reform (Hatem, 2023; Zion, 2014, pp. 155–175). These reformers, driven by a deep love for God and His Word, sought to purify the Church and align its teachings more closely with what they understood to be the true message of the Gospel.

Calvin, in particular, played a crucial role in shaping Reformed theology. His systematic approach to understanding Scripture and his emphasis on God’s sovereignty became hallmarks of Reformed thought (Hatem, 2023). The Reformed tradition spread from Switzerland to other parts of Europe, including France, the Netherlands, Scotland, and eventually to North America and beyond.

Reformed Christianity is not a monolithic entity, but rather a family of churches and traditions that share certain core beliefs while maintaining their own distinct characteristics. This diversity within unity reflects the richness of God’s creation and the various ways His truth can be expressed in different cultural contexts.

The Reformed tradition has always placed a strong emphasis on education and the life of the mind, believing that faith and reason are not opposed but rather complement each other in our quest to understand God and His creation (Zion, 2014, pp. 155–175). This intellectual heritage has contributed significantly to the development of Western thought and culture.

Throughout its history, Reformed Christianity has faced challenges and undergone changes, but it has remained committed to its foundational principles of sola scriptura (Scripture alone), sola fide (faith alone), sola gratia (grace alone), solus Christus (Christ alone), and soli Deo gloria (glory to God alone) (Hatem, 2023). These principles continue to guide Reformed Christians in their faith and practice today.

What are the main beliefs of Reformed Christians?

The beliefs of Reformed Christians are rooted deeply in Scripture and shaped by a powerful understanding of God’s sovereignty and grace. While there is diversity within the Reformed tradition, there are several core beliefs that characterize this branch of Christianity.

Reformed Christians hold to the doctrine of sola scriptura, which affirms that the Bible is the ultimate authority for faith and practice (Yohanes, 2023). They believe that Scripture is God-breathed, infallible, and sufficient for all matters of faith and life. This commitment to the primacy of Scripture shapes all other aspects of Reformed theology.

Central to Reformed belief is the sovereignty of God. Reformed Christians emphasize that God is in control of all things, including salvation. This leads to the doctrine of predestination, which teaches that God, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, has chosen some for salvation (Hatem, 2023). But it’s important to understand that this doctrine is not meant to promote fatalism, but rather to highlight the greatness of God’s grace and to inspire humility and gratitude in believers.

Reformed theology also emphasizes the total depravity of humanity. This doesn’t mean that people are as bad as they could be, but rather that sin affects every aspect of our being, and we are unable to save ourselves (Vorster, 2022). This understanding of human nature magnifies the necessity and beauty of God’s grace in salvation.

The concept of covenant is another key element in Reformed thought. Reformed Christians see God’s relationship with humanity as covenantal, with the Old and New Testaments revealing different aspects of God’s covenant of grace (Hatem, 2023). This covenantal understanding influences their view of baptism and the Lord’s Supper as signs and seals of God’s covenant promises.

Reformed Christians also hold to the “Five Solas” of the Reformation: sola scriptura (Scripture alone), sola fide (faith alone), sola gratia (grace alone), solus Christus (Christ alone), and soli Deo gloria (glory to God alone) (Hatem, 2023). These principles emphasize that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, as revealed in Scripture alone, all to the glory of God alone.

Another distinctive of Reformed theology is its emphasis on the cultural mandate and the lordship of Christ over all areas of life. Reformed Christians believe that faith should impact every aspect of life, including work, politics, and culture (Zion, 2014, pp. 155–175). This leads to a strong emphasis on vocation and the idea that all of life is to be lived coram Deo – before the face of God.

Lastly, Reformed Christians typically hold to a high view of the church and its role in the believer’s life. They emphasize the importance of corporate worship, the preaching of the Word, and the administration of the sacraments (Hatem, 2023).

While these beliefs form the core of Reformed theology, it’s important to remember that within this tradition, as in all of Christianity, there is room for diversity of thought and practice. What unites us all is our love for Christ and our desire to live faithfully according to His Word. May we always seek to understand and respect one another, even as we hold firmly to our convictions.

How do Reformed Christian beliefs differ from other Protestant denominations?

While all Protestant denominations share a common heritage in the Reformation, Reformed Christianity has some distinctive emphases that set it apart from other Protestant traditions. It’s important to approach these differences with humility and love, recognizing that we are all part of the body of Christ, each contributing to the richness of our shared faith.

One of the most major distinctions lies in the Reformed emphasis on God’s sovereignty, particularly in salvation. While all Protestants believe in salvation by grace through faith, Reformed theology places a stronger emphasis on God’s initiative in the entire process of salvation, from election to glorification (Hatem, 2023). This view, often referred to as Calvinism, contrasts with the Arminian theology found in many other Protestant denominations, which tends to emphasize human free will in the process of salvation.

Reformed Christians also tend to have a more comprehensive view of God’s covenant with His people. While other Protestant traditions may speak of God’s covenant, Reformed theology sees it as a central organizing principle for understanding the relationship between God and humanity throughout Scripture (Hatem, 2023). This covenantal perspective influences their understanding of baptism and church membership, often leading to the practice of infant baptism, which is not common in all Protestant denominations.

Another distinctive of Reformed theology is its emphasis on the “cultural mandate” – the belief that Christians are called to engage with and transform all areas of culture for God’s glory (Zion, 2014, pp. 155–175). While other Protestant traditions may also encourage cultural engagement, Reformed Christians often place a particular emphasis on developing a Christian worldview that applies to all aspects of life, including education, politics, and the arts.

Reformed worship tends to be more structured and liturgical compared to some other Protestant traditions, particularly those in the evangelical or charismatic streams. There is often a high view of the importance of preaching and the administration of the sacraments in Reformed churches (Hatem, 2023). This can contrast with the more informal or experiential worship styles found in some other Protestant denominations.

In terms of church governance, many Reformed churches follow a Presbyterian model, with authority vested in elected elders rather than in a single pastor or bishop. This differs from Episcopal systems (as in Anglicanism) or congregational systems (as in many Baptist churches) (Sullins, 2003, 2004, pp. 278–292).

Reformed theology also tends to have a more defined and systematic approach to doctrine. While all Protestant denominations value biblical teaching, Reformed churches often place a particular emphasis on catechesis and doctrinal instruction (Hatem, 2023). This can lead to a more intellectually rigorous approach to faith compared to some other Protestant traditions that may emphasize personal experience or practical application more heavily.

Lastly, Reformed Christians often have a distinct eschatological view, typically holding to amillennialism or postmillennialism, in contrast to the premillennial views common in many evangelical denominations (Hatem, 2023). This affects how they interpret prophetic passages in Scripture and their understanding of the church’s role in the world.

While these differences are major, they should not divide us. Instead, let us appreciate the diversity within the body of Christ, recognizing that these various emphases can enrich our understanding of God’s truth. May we always seek unity in essentials, liberty in non-essentials, and charity in all things, as we strive together to glorify God and serve His kingdom.

What is the difference between Reformed Christians and mainstream Protestants?

The distinction between Reformed Christians and what we might call “mainstream Protestants” is not always clear-cut, as there is major overlap and diversity within both groups. But there are some general tendencies and emphases that often distinguish Reformed Christianity from other Protestant traditions.

Reformed Christians typically place a stronger emphasis on the sovereignty of God, particularly in matters of salvation. This is often expressed through the doctrines of predestination and election (Hatem, 2023). While all Protestants believe in salvation by grace through faith, Reformed theology tends to stress God’s initiative in the entire process of salvation more heavily than many mainstream Protestant denominations. This can lead to a different understanding of human free will and responsibility in the process of salvation.

Another key difference lies in the approach to Scripture and doctrine. Reformed Christians often have a more systematic and comprehensive approach to theology, drawing heavily on the works of reformers like John Calvin (Hatem, 2023). They typically place a high value on doctrinal precision and catechesis. While mainstream Protestants value biblical teaching, they may not always emphasize systematic theology to the same degree.

The concept of covenant is also more central in Reformed theology than in many mainstream Protestant traditions. Reformed Christians often view the entire biblical narrative through the lens of God’s covenantal relationships with humanity (Hatem, 2023). This covenantal understanding influences their view of baptism, often leading to the practice of infant baptism, which is not common in all Protestant denominations.

In terms of worship and church life, Reformed churches often maintain a more formal and liturgical style of worship compared to many mainstream Protestant churches, particularly those in the evangelical or charismatic traditions (Hatem, 2023). There is typically a strong emphasis on the preaching of the Word and the proper administration of the sacraments.

Reformed Christianity also tends to have a more developed view of the church’s role in society. The concept of the “cultural mandate” – the idea that Christians are called to engage with and transform all areas of culture – is often more pronounced in Reformed circles (Zion, 2014, pp. 155–175). This can lead to a greater emphasis on developing a Christian worldview that applies to all aspects of life, including education, politics, and the arts.

In terms of church governance, many Reformed churches follow a Presbyterian model, with authority vested in elected elders. This differs from the Episcopal systems found in some mainstream Protestant denominations or the congregational systems common in others (Sullins, 2003, 2004, pp. 278–292).

These differences are not absolute. Many mainstream Protestant churches have been influenced by Reformed theology to varying degrees, and there is a wide spectrum of beliefs and practices within both Reformed and mainstream Protestant circles. the lines between these categories can often be blurry, with some churches and individuals embodying characteristics of both.

What unites all of us as followers of Christ is far greater than what divides us. Whether Reformed or mainstream Protestant, we share a common faith in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, a commitment to the authority of Scripture, and a desire to live out our faith in service to God and our fellow human beings. In this spirit of unity, we can celebrate the diversity of our traditions and the richness they bring to our collective witness. By embracing our shared commitment to Christ, we also acknowledge the varied expressions of faith that arise from our distinct backgrounds, recognizing that these contribute to the broader tapestry of Protestant beliefs and practices. Together, we can foster an environment of love and understanding that reflects the heart of the Gospel.

How do Reformed Christians view the role of Scripture in their faith?

For Reformed Christians, Scripture holds a place of paramount importance in their faith and practice. The Reformed tradition, deeply rooted in the principle of sola scriptura (Scripture alone), views the Bible as the ultimate authority for all matters of faith and life (Yohanes, 2023).

Reformed Christians believe that the Bible is God’s inspired Word, infallible and inerrant in its original autographs. They see Scripture not merely as a collection of human writings about God, but as God’s own self-revelation to humanity. This high view of Scripture shapes every aspect of Reformed theology and practice (Yohanes, 2023).

One of the distinctive features of the Reformed approach to Scripture is the emphasis on its sufficiency. Reformed Christians believe that the Bible contains all that is necessary for salvation and godly living. They hold that Scripture is clear in its essential teachings (a concept known as the perspicuity of Scripture) and that it interprets itself (the principle of Scripture interpreting Scripture) (Yohanes, 2023).

In Reformed thought, the proper interpretation of Scripture is crucial. While affirming the right and responsibility of individual believers to read and understand the Bible, Reformed Christians also emphasize the importance of reading Scripture in community, guided by the church’s historical understanding and confessions of faith. They typically approach biblical interpretation with careful attention to the historical and literary context, seeking to understand the original meaning of the text before applying it to contemporary situations (Yohanes, 2023).

The Reformed tradition places a strong emphasis on expository preaching, where the sermon is centered on explaining and applying a particular passage of Scripture. This reflects their belief that God speaks to His people primarily through His Word, and that the task of the preacher is to faithfully expound that Word (Hatem, 2023).

Reformed Christians also view Scripture as the lens through which all of life is to be understood and lived. They seek to develop a biblical worldview that informs their approach to every area of life, from personal ethics to cultural engagement (Zion, 2014, pp. 155–175). This comprehensive application of Scripture reflects their belief in the lordship of Christ over all of creation.

Reformed theology sees Scripture as telling one unified story of God’s redemptive work in history. They emphasize the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, seeing both as part of God’s single covenant of grace. This covenantal understanding of Scripture influences their interpretation of biblical prophecy and their view of the relationship between Israel and the Church (Hatem, 2023).

While Reformed Christians hold to a high view of Scripture, they do not worship the Bible itself. Rather, they see Scripture as the means by which they come to know and worship the Triune God revealed in its pages. The goal of biblical study in the Reformed tradition is not merely academic knowledge, but a deeper relationship with God and a life transformed by His Word.

This emphasis on Scripture challenges us all, regardless of our particular tradition, to engage deeply with God’s Word. It reminds us of the treasure we have in the Bible – God’s own words to us, guiding us in truth and leading us to salvation in Christ.

What do Reformed Christians believe about salvation and predestination?

At the heart of Reformed theology lies a powerful trust in God’s sovereignty and grace. Reformed Christians believe that salvation is entirely a gift from God, not something that can be earned or achieved through human effort. This understanding is rooted in the teachings of Scripture, particularly in the letters of St. Paul.

The doctrine of predestination, which is often associated with Reformed theology, stems from this emphasis on God’s sovereignty. It teaches that God, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, has chosen some for salvation before the foundation of the world. This concept can be challenging to grasp, and it has been the subject of much debate and reflection throughout Christian history.

But we must approach this doctrine with humility and awe before the mystery of God’s ways. Predestination is not meant to create anxiety or despair, but rather to inspire gratitude and wonder at God’s gracious initiative in our salvation. As the apostle Paul writes, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).

Reformed Christians emphasize that while God’s election is sovereign, human beings are still responsible for their choices and actions. The call to repentance and faith is genuine and universal. No one who comes to Christ in faith will be turned away.

Within Reformed Christianity, there are varying interpretations of predestination. Some hold to a “double predestination” view, which includes both election to salvation and reprobation to damnation. Others emphasize a “single predestination” view, focusing on God’s positive election to salvation while being more cautious about statements regarding those who are not saved.

Regardless of these nuances, Reformed theology consistently points to the amazing grace of God as the source of our salvation. It calls us to respond with lives of gratitude, obedience, and service, not out of fear or to earn God’s favor, but as a loving response to the gift we have already received.

How do Reformed Christian practices differ from other Christian traditions?

While all Christian traditions share a common foundation in the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, each tradition has developed its own distinctive practices and emphases over time. Reformed Christianity, with its roots in the Protestant Reformation, has several characteristic practices that set it apart.

Reformed worship places a strong emphasis on the preaching of God’s Word. The sermon typically occupies a central place in the worship service, reflecting the belief that God speaks to His people primarily through Scripture. This focus on biblical exposition is grounded in the Reformed principle of sola Scriptura – Scripture alone as the ultimate authority for faith and practice.

In Reformed churches, you will often find a simpler, more austere style of worship compared to some other traditions. This simplicity reflects the desire to focus on the essentials of faith and to avoid anything that might distract from the worship of God. Many Reformed churches do not use elaborate visual imagery or extensive ritual, preferring instead to emphasize the hearing of God’s Word and the response of the congregation in prayer and song.

The sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper are practiced in Reformed churches, but with a distinct theological understanding. Infant baptism is common, reflecting the covenant theology that sees children of believers as part of the covenant community. The Lord’s Supper is typically celebrated less frequently than in some other traditions, but with great reverence and spiritual significance.

Reformed Christians often place a strong emphasis on catechesis – the systematic instruction in the doctrines of the faith. This is reflected in the use of catechisms and confessions, such as the Heidelberg Catechism or the Westminster Confession of Faith, which serve as tools for teaching and preserving Reformed doctrine.

In terms of church governance, many Reformed churches follow a presbyterian model, with leadership shared among elders (presbyters) rather than concentrated in a hierarchical structure. This reflects the Reformed emphasis on the priesthood of all believers and the importance of collective discernment in matters of faith and practice.

Reformed Christianity has also historically placed a strong emphasis on the integration of faith with all aspects of life. This “world-and-life view” approach encourages believers to see all of creation and culture as areas where God’s sovereignty is to be acknowledged and lived out. This has often led to a strong emphasis on education, social engagement, and cultural transformation.

While these practices are characteristic of Reformed Christianity, there is also major diversity within the Reformed tradition. Some Reformed churches may incorporate elements from other traditions, while still maintaining their Reformed theological distinctives.

What did the Church Fathers teach about key Reformed doctrines?

Regarding the doctrine of salvation by grace alone (sola gratia), we find strong support in the writings of many Church Fathers. St. Augustine, in particular, emphasized the primacy of God’s grace in salvation. He wrote, “What merit of man is there before grace by which he can achieve grace, as only grace works every one of our good merits in us, and when God crowns our merits, He crowns nothing else but His own gifts?” (Meyer, 2020) This aligns closely with the Reformed emphasis on God’s sovereign grace in salvation.

The concept of predestination, while not as fully developed as in later Reformed theology, was also present in patristic thought. St. Augustine, again, was influential in this area, writing about God’s election of some to salvation. But the Church Fathers’ views on predestination were diverse and often not as systematically developed as later Reformed formulations.

Regarding the authority of Scripture (sola Scriptura), the Church Fathers held Scripture in high regard, often referring to it as the ultimate authority in matters of faith. St. Athanasius wrote, “The holy and inspired Scriptures are fully sufficient for the proclamation of the truth.” But the Fathers also placed great importance on church tradition and the teachings of the apostles, which differs somewhat from the later Reformed emphasis on Scripture alone as the final authority.

The Church Fathers’ teachings on justification, another key Reformed doctrine, were varied and not always as clearly articulated as in later Reformed theology. While they emphasized the importance of faith and God’s grace, the precise formulation of justification by faith alone (sola fide) was not fully developed until the Reformation era.

While we can find elements in the Church Fathers’ writings that align with Reformed doctrines, we must be cautious about reading later theological formulations back into their work. The Church Fathers were addressing different concerns and contexts, and their teachings often contain nuances that don’t fit neatly into later theological categories.

How has Reformed Christianity influenced modern Christian thought and practice?

The influence of Reformed Christianity on modern Christian thought and practice has been powerful and far-reaching. Like a river flowing through diverse landscapes, Reformed theology has shaped and nourished various aspects of Christian life and thought, often in ways that extend beyond the boundaries of explicitly Reformed churches.

One of the most major contributions of Reformed Christianity has been its emphasis on the sovereignty of God in all areas of life. This “world-and-life view” approach has encouraged Christians to engage critically and constructively with culture, science, politics, and education. It has inspired believers to see their vocations, whatever they may be, as avenues for serving God and transforming society. This holistic vision of faith has influenced many Christian thinkers and activists, contributing to movements for social reform, education, and cultural engagement.

The Reformed emphasis on the authority of Scripture has had a lasting impact on biblical scholarship and interpretation across many Christian traditions. The commitment to careful exegesis and the application of Scripture to all areas of life has encouraged a deep engagement with the Bible that continues to shape Christian thought and practice today.

Reformed theology’s focus on God’s grace in salvation has influenced discussions about the nature of faith, conversion, and the Christian life across denominational lines. Even in traditions that do not fully embrace Reformed soteriology, the emphasis on God’s initiative in salvation and the importance of faith has left its mark.

In the realm of worship and liturgy, the Reformed tradition’s emphasis on the centrality of God’s Word has influenced many Protestant churches, leading to a renewed focus on expository preaching and biblical literacy among laypeople. The simplicity and directness of Reformed worship practices have also shaped worship styles in various Christian traditions.

Reformed Christianity has also made major contributions to the field of Christian education. The establishment of Christian schools and colleges, as well as the development of comprehensive Christian worldview curricula, owes much to Reformed thinkers and educators.

In the area of social and political thought, Reformed Christianity’s emphasis on God’s sovereignty over all areas of life has inspired various approaches to Christian engagement with society and politics. From the development of sphere sovereignty theory to the articulation of Christian principles for government and social order, Reformed thinkers have contributed significantly to discussions about the role of faith in public life.

The Reformed tradition’s historical-redemptive approach to understanding Scripture has influenced biblical theology across denominational lines, encouraging a more integrated view of the Bible’s overarching narrative and themes.

This influence has not been without controversy or critique. Some have found certain aspects of Reformed theology challenging or problematic. But even in disagreement, engagement with Reformed thought has often led to deeper reflection and articulation of Christian beliefs across various traditions.

Can someone be both Reformed and part of another Christian tradition?

In many ways, it is possible for someone to embrace aspects of Reformed theology while remaining part of another Christian tradition. Our faith is rich and multifaceted, and many believers find that they can draw wisdom and insight from various streams of Christian thought without necessarily aligning themselves exclusively with one tradition.

We see examples of this in the modern Christian landscape. There are Anglican churches that incorporate Reformed theology into their Anglican framework. Some Baptist churches embrace Reformed soteriology while maintaining their distinctive views on baptism and church governance. Even within Catholic and Orthodox traditions, there are individuals and groups who find value in certain Reformed emphases, particularly in areas like the authority of Scripture and the sovereignty of God.

But fully embracing Reformed theology in its entirety while remaining fully committed to another tradition can present challenges. Some core doctrines of Reformed Christianity, such as its understanding of the sacraments or church governance, may conflict with the teachings of other traditions. In such cases, individuals may need to prayerfully discern where their primary theological commitments lie.

We must also remember that our Christian identity is not primarily about aligning with a particular theological system, but about our relationship with Christ and our participation in His body, the Church. As the apostle Paul reminds us, “For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:13).

In our increasingly interconnected world, many Christians find themselves drawing from multiple traditions in their spiritual journey. This can be a source of enrichment, allowing us to appreciate the breadth and depth of Christian thought and practice. It can also foster greater understanding and unity among different Christian communities.

At the same time, we must approach this with wisdom and discernment. It’s important to have a coherent theological framework and to be rooted in a community of faith. Picking and choosing doctrines without careful reflection can lead to confusion or inconsistency in one’s beliefs and practices.

For those who find themselves drawn to aspects of Reformed theology while remaining in another tradition, I would encourage a spirit of humble inquiry and open dialogue. Engage with your church leaders and fellow believers. Study Scripture diligently. Seek to understand both the Reformed perspective and your own tradition more deeply. And above all, keep Christ at the center of your faith and practice.

Let us remember, that while our theological traditions are important, they are not ultimate. Our ultimate allegiance is to Christ Himself. As we navigate these questions of identity and belonging, may we do so with love, humility, and a commitment to the unity of the body of Christ. As our Lord Jesus prayed, “that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:21).

In all things, let us seek to grow in our knowledge and love of God, to serve Him faithfully, and to love one another as Christ has loved us. For in this, we fulfill the greatest commandments and bear witness to the transforming power of the Gospel.