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Among Christians, there are many different sects which are referred to as denominations. There are two general divisions: Catholic and Protestant. The conviction of Martin Luther around 1517 that salvation is by grace alone through faith began what we know as The Reformation. Out of protest to the Catholic Church (and the selling of indulgences therin) other churches began to form. These churches became known as Protestant churches. The different denominations each have somewhat different beginnings. Some came about just because they did not like the current situation and they wanted something different. Others have even claimed to be a duplicate of the earliest Church. Others were formed due to stark theological differences from other churches. For instance, within the early Baptist churches there were General Baptists and Particular Baptists so named due to their view of the Atonement. Some groups have been formed claiming that all other churches are apostate. These have been systematically labeled as cults. Such groups would include Mormons or Jehovah's Witnesses. Furthermore, there are just as many (if not more) churches that are not affiliated with any denomination. For the purpose of this site it would be nearly impossible to include these groups. However, one never knows what the future holds. I hope that through my work as well as the friends I have enlisted that you will gain a more thorough understanding of your brethren. The list on the right is just the beginning. If you see a denomination that has been left out, let me know. My e-mail is at the bottom of the page. All comments are welcome. |
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