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An Overveiw of the Differences in Christian Denominations

We take a look at some of the differences in Christian denominations, practices & beliefs, particularly focusing on major protestant denominations in Australia.

There are many different Christian denominations in Australia. Some are large, and well-known in the wider community (like the Anglican, Baptist or Lutheran Churches). Some are smaller and less well-known outside the Church itself (like the Church of the Nazarene, or the Brethren Church).

While each belongs to the broader church and has the same biblical foundations, there are some differences between Christian denominations. Different ways of organising, different practices and even different beliefs. Let’s look at some of the differences in Christian denominations, particularly focused on the major protestant denominations in Australia (have a look at our brief introduction to the Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches).

A Comparison of Different Christian Denominations and Beliefs

Making a comparison of different Christian denominations isn’t a simple matter. For a start, there are hundreds of different denominations, even just in Australia.

Secondly, there is great variation in belief between different Christians and different congregations, even within a single denomination. There is, broadly speaking, unity across the church, but there is also difference and diversity.

Let’s take a look at some of the differences in beliefs between Christian denominations or groups of churches. Where possible we’ve drawn these statements from denominational sources, and are outlining just some of the more common denominations and groups in Australia.

1. What do different Denominations believe about the Bible?

There are differences between Christian denominations when it comes to how they understand the Bible, its source, interpretation and use:

Anglican: Given by the inspiration of God, contains all things necessary for salvation, ultimate rule and standard of faith.
Baptist: Written Word of God to humankind, truth from the being of God and alive with his life, supreme and absolute authority on all matters of faith and practice.
Christian Reformed Church: God’s inspired Word.
Churches of Christ: Value and affirm the centrality of the scriptures as authority for Christian belief, identity and practice.
Lutheran: Inspired, inerrant, alone is the basis of the Christian faith. Eternal truth revealed by God.

comparison of church denominations

Pentecostal: God’s Word, accurate, authoritative and applicable to our lives.
Presbyterian: Inerrant in the original texts and infallible in the teaching it contains for our world.
Uniting: Unique, prophetic and apostolic testimony in which it hears the Word of God and by which its faith and obedience are nourished and regulated.

2. What do different Denominations believe about the Trinity?

The doctrine of the Trinity, that God is three (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) yet one, is a core belief of Christianity shared amongst all church denominations. While there are variations in wording, the essence of this doctrine is widely agreedk by all denominations:

Anglican: In the unity of the Godhead there are three persons of one substance, power and eternity; the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost.
Baptist: God eternally exists in three persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. This Holy Trinity is a union of these co-equal persons in one Godhead.
Christian Reformed Church: Believes in the triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit who gathers, protects and cares for the Church in word and spirit.
Churches of Christ: Believe in the Trinity of the Godhead. There is one God who exists eternally in three Persons – the Father who saves people by drawing them to his Son through the Holy Spirit.
Lutheran: Believes in the Triune God (the Trinity): the Father, creator of all; Jesus Christ, the Son, who died for our sins and rose to life again; and the Holy Spirit, who guides all Christians spiritually.
Pentecostal: One eternal God who is the creator of all things He exists in three persons: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.
Presbyterian: Belief in the Trinity of the Godhead. There is one God who exists eternally in three Persons – the Father who saves people by drawing them to his Son through the Holy Spirit. These three are one in power and glory.
Uniting: Believes in God as the Trinity – God the Father, Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, and the Holy Spirit.

All believe Jesus Christ was God’s Son; truly God and truly man.

3. What do different Denominations believe about Jesus?

Broadly speaking, differences between Christian denominations when it comes to Jesus are limited. All believe Jesus Christ was God’s Son; truly God and truly man. Some take a more spiritual tone when talking of Jesus Christ:

Anglican: One Christ, truly God and truly Man; who truly suffered, was crucified, dead, and buried, to reconcile his Father to us, and to be a sacrifice, not only for original guilt, but also for actual sins of men.
Baptist: Jesus took on humanity without losing any of his deity. Thus full God and fully man. Lived a sinless life in perfect obedience to the Father.
Christian Reformed Church: True God and true Man, lived the perfect life we could not. As true God paid the price of our brokenness fully and perfectly. Died, was raised on the third day, returned to heaven and reigns over all.
Churches of Christ: Believes that Jesus is who he says he is, and that no one comes to the Father but through HIm.
Lutheran: Believes that God gave his Son, Jesus Christ, to die for the sins of all. The good news of his love in Christ is for all people everywhere.
Pentecostal: The Lord Jesus Christ, as both God and man, is the only one who can reconcile us to God. LIved a sinless life, died on the cross, rose again to prove victory.
Presbyterian: Fully divine and fully human, eternal Son of God, the full and final revelation of God to mankind. The eternal Son of God, became man, lived, died and rose again to atone for our sins. The only mediator between God and mankind.
Uniting: Christ is the risen, crucified One. Confesses him as Lord. In Jesus Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, giving the Son to take away the world’s sin.

4. What do different Denominations believe about Sin and Salvation?

What is not disputed among protestant denominations is the idea of salvation, by grace, through faith.

Differences in Christian denominations when it comes to complex ideas like sin and salvation can be a little more pronounced. There is variation in understanding what sin is, whether sin is part of each of us or a consequence of the fall of Adam and so on. What is not disputed among protestant denominations is the idea of salvation, by grace, through faith. That is, God’s forgiveness is freely given, and each of us can accept that gift simply, and solely, through acknowledging Jesus Christ as Lord:

Anglican: An inclination to sin is in every person and we are far from righteousness. The Bible teaches that by calling on the name of Jesus we can be saved.
Baptist: Sin taints even the good that we are and do, and cuts us off from God. We are each hopelessly lost and destined for eternity in hell. Salvation is a free gift springing from God’s love, mercy and grace. It is totally provided by the work of Christ without any contribution of our own.
Christian Reformed Church: Sin penetrates every aspect of our lives, no matter what deeds, reputation, moral standards or acts of sacrifice we cannot regain rightness with God. God’s saving grace is a free gift that we can freely accept in Jesus.
Churches of Christ: Believe salvation is available to anyone who believes in Jesus.
Lutheran: We turned our back on God’s will and purposes and stand helpless and hopeless under God’s judgement. We receive forgiveness from God when, by the working of the Holy Spirit, we accept in personal faith what Jesus Christ has accomplished by dying on the cross.
Pentecostal: Sin has separated each of us from God and His purpose for our lives. To receive forgiveness and new birth we must repent of our sins, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and submit to His will.
Presbyterian: We are created in God’s image, but have inherited Adam’s tarnished and fallen nature. The penalty is eternal judgement. We cannot earn salvation, only receive it when the Holy Spirit enables us to have faith in Christ alone.
Uniting: Preaches Christ the risen crucified One, confesses him as Lord. In Jesus, God was reconciling the world to himself, taking away the sin of the world.

5. What do different Denominations believe about Baptism?

A comparison between protestant denominations when it comes to Baptism generally focuses on the method of Baptism, and the willingness of the denomination to baptist children or infants, as well as adults. There are also some different perspectives about what actually happens in the act of Baptism:

Anglican: Celebrated as a sacrament that is both a sign of profession and also a grafting into the body of Christ. Conducted by either sprinkling or immersion and open to confession adults, children and infants. Led by an ordained minister or authorised person.
Baptist: Celebrated by immersion of confessing adults as an act connecting the believer with the life, death and resurrection of Christ.
Christian Reformed Church: Celebrated as a sacrament open to adults, children and infants. Seen as a washing away of sins, and receiving the gift of the Spirit as it forms believers as members of Christ.
Churches of Christ: Celebrated as a confession in Christ, by immersion as the best means of identifying with the death and resurrection of Christ. Open only to those old enough to confess their faith.
Lutheran: Celebrated as a sacrament in which Christ offers grace and forgiveness. Conducted by either sprinkling or immersion and open to confessing adults, children and infants. Generally led by an ordained minister or authorised person.
Pentecostal: A range of practices related to water baptism, but generally baptism of confessing adults by immersion. Also, believe that ‘baptism of the Holy Spirit’ enables believers to use spiritual gifts (including speaking in tongues).
Presbyterian: Celebrated as a sacrament, generally by sprinkling or pouring of water. Open to confessing adults, children and to infants with at least one Christian parent. Generally led by an ordained minister or authorised person.
Uniting: Celebrated as a sacrament in which Christ incorporates people into his body. Conducted by either sprinkling or immersion and open to confessing adults, children and infants. Led by an ordained minister or authorised person.

6. What do different Denominations believe about Holy Communion?

Holy Communion is also commonly known as the Lord’s Supper or the Eucharist. While a comparison of different denominations reveals differences in belief and practice, the essence of Holy Communion is modelled on Jesus’ last supper with His disciples, taking place the night before he was crucified:

Anglican: Celebrated as a sacrament, declaring the real presence of Christ in the sharing of Holy Communion. Led by a priest or authorised person and open to all Christians.
Baptist: Practiced as a means of remembering Jesus and his sacrifice. Open to all Christians who would come. Usually led or served by pastors or elders.
Christian Reformed Church: Celebrated as a sacrament in which the nourishment and refreshment of the cup and bread are received as ‘sure signs’ in remembrance of Christ. Open to all baptised members of Christian churches.
Churches of Christ: Celebrate Holy Communion or the Lord’s Supper each Sunday. May be led by ordained or lay people, and open to all who come.
Lutheran: Celebrated as a sacrament in which the body and blood of Christ are given as an assurance of personal forgiveness.
Pentecostal: A range of beliefs and practices surrounding Holy Communion.
Presbyterian: Celebrated as a sacrament and celebrated in a local congregation as often as the minister or elders determine.
Uniting: Celebrated as a sacrament in which the continuing presence of Christ with his people is sealed and signified. Led by an ordained minister or authorised person and open to all who come.

comparison of different christian denominations

Different Christian Denominations and Practices

As well as the different formal beliefs and doctrines outlined above, there is a range of different practices for denominations in areas such as worship, governance, women in leadership and community services. The differences in Christian denominations in these areas also stem from different beliefs, values and priorities within each denomination.

1. How do Different Denominations compare in Worship Services?

Worship can vary from denomination to denomination, from local church to local church, and even from Sunday to Sunday within the same local church. A comparison of denominations will show that some worship services are traditional, with a more formal liturgy, older hymns and formal prayers, while other services are more contemporary – using more modern music, less formal prayers and more contemporary language. Some worship is entirely different with descriptions including dinner church, and cafe church. The best way to ascertain the style or form of worship in your local church is to pay a visit:

Anglican: A variety of styles of worship from traditional to contemporary. Uses the Anglican Book of Common Prayer to support their liturgy.
Baptist: Variety of styles of worship, from traditional to contemporary.

differences in Christian denominations

Christian Reformed Church: Variety of styles of worship, from traditional to contemporary.
Churches of Christ: A variety of styles of worship, from traditional to contemporary.
Lutheran: Variety of styles of worship, from traditional to contemporary.
Pentecostal: A generally more contemporary style of worship.
Presbyterian: A variety of styles of worship, from traditional to contemporary.
Uniting: A variety of styles of worship, from traditional to contemporary. May use “Uniting in Worship” resources to support their liturgy.

2. How do Different Denominations compare in Governance and Organisation?

Systems of governance and organisation are one of the major differences between Christian denominations. Some are ‘episcopal’ (a church having or governed by Synods), some are congregational (congregations are largely autonomous but cooperate in a union or denomination), while others are ‘synodical’ – with systems of church councils and regions. Each draws some mandate from the biblical witness but prioritises different scripture passages in shaping their systems of governance:

Anglican: Episcopal church, with significant leadership roles for Primate (national leadership). Organised into 23 dioceses in 6 provinces (roughly equivalent to states) led by Bishops and Archbishops. Meets in a national General Synod every three years.
Baptist: Believe Christ is the head of the church. Congregations are largely autonomous, cooperating in state Unions.
Christian Reformed Church: The congregation is the basic unit of the church, with congregations cooperating in a regional group (called a classis), and then meeting nationally as Synod every three years where the Board of Management and Interim Committee are elected to provide ongoing oversight.
Churches of Christ: Congregations are largely autonomous and operate on a democratic and congregational basis.
Lutheran: Describes itself as a “synodical” church, with local churches committing to walk with one another. Churches are organised into regional districts and meet together every three years at a national general synod, electing a General Church Council with key oversight roles.
Pentecostal: Varies widely, but mainly autonomous local congregations led by pastoral staff and board. Congregations may be voluntary members of various Pentecostal networks (e.g. Australian Christian Churches, C3).
Presbyterian: Significant leadership role in the “presbyter” (elder) at local, regional presbytery and state general assembly. Some responsibilities are handed to the national assembly on a voluntary basis.
Uniting: Four inter-related councils – Assembly (national), Synod (state), Presbytery (regional) and church (local) with different responsibilities. People are appointed to lead each council by election. Practice consensus decision-making.

3. How do Different Denominations compare for Women in ordained ministry roles?

The willingness of a denomination to welcome women in leadership roles, particularly when ordained as pastors, ministers or priests and serving in senior roles varies quite widely across Australia. Differences in Christian denominations with respect to women in leadership again depend on the interpretation of various biblical passages and the priority placed upon them:

Anglican: Ordains women in ministry roles in most dioceses (the exception being Sydney Diocese).
Baptist: Most state Unions permit the ordination of women into ministry roles.
Christian Reformed Church:
Churches of Christ: Ordains women into ministry roles across the church.
Lutheran: Does not ordain women into ministry roles.
Pentecostal: Generally ordains women into ministry roles, but with some exceptions in different local churches or branches of the wider Pentecostal movement.
Presbyterian: Generally does not ordain women into ministry roles, with some exceptions (e.g. NSW).
Uniting: Ordains women into all ministry roles across the church.

4. How do Different Denominations compare in Community Service?

The commitment of Christians to love and serve their neighbours is clear, unambiguous and widely held. Practices vary though, and a comparison of Christian denominations shows some express this commitment through large, well organised community service agences, while others through the locally oriented actions of congregations:

Anglican: Substantial community service agencies and schools throughout the country (e.g. Anglicare) as well as local congregational services.
Baptist: Active community service agencies throughout the country (e.g. Baptcare) as well as local congregational services and locally operated schools.
Christian Reformed Church: Mainly local congregational services.
Churches of Christ: Active community service agencies throughout the country (e.g. Churches of Christ Care) as well as local congregational services.

different christian denominations and beliefs

Lutheran: Active community service agencies and schools throughout the country (e.g. Lutheran Care, Lutheran Services Qld) as well as local congregational services.
Pentecostal: Mainly local and regional congregational services and locally operated schools.
Presbyterian: Active community service agencies and schools in some parts of the country (e.g. Prescare) as well as local congregational services.
Uniting: Substantial community service agencies and schools throughout the country (e.g. UnitingCare) as well as local congregational services.

Scott-Guyatt-writer for Local Christian Life
Scott Guyatt is a writer, speaker, trainer, and facilitator who has served the church in Australia for more than two decades. Scott’s experience includes helping the church explore mission, discipleship and leadership practices in local communities across the country.

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