Despite both Methodist and Presbyterian being branches of the Protestant movement, they have substantial differences between the two regarding how they preach and practice religion.
Read on below to thoroughly understand the difference between Methodist and Presbyterian beliefs.
Presbyterian Vs. Methodist: An Overview
The difference between a Methodist and a presbyterian is that Methodists believe there is salvation for anyone willing to atone for their sins, while Presbyterians believe otherwise.
The Presbyterians believe God has already selected those he wanted to grace before their birth, that those born with grace never fall out of it. And no matter how much a destinated to be damned soul atones, they will not be saved completely.
Methodists believe in deeds instead of believing in the creeds of people. They also follow traditional methods while preaching.
Those who practice the method believe that even a devoted soul can give in to the damned side. Salvation is not granted unless and until you stay devoted to your one and only God.
Though not easy to gain, it can be easy to lose salvation. Methodists also contribute or take part actively in missionary work to serve society. The believers also work to spread the gospel to others.
Presbyterians, on the other hand, believe that God has already chosen who He wants to save. Therefore, they do not believe in unlimited salvation for those repenting for sins.
Sinners are predetermined just like the ones in grace are also determined by the Divine power.
It is also extreme in giving the death penalty for any crimes committed at all, as they do not believe that grace can be gained. Usually, the Presbyters are the ones ruling who address issues of community and decide on punishment.
Who Is a Methodist?
A Methodist is someone who does not believe in the Calvinist doctrine that some people only get to have salvation, while the others are destined to be damned.
Even though the Calvinist doctrine of predestination is one of the oldest branches, they completely reject the idea.
The Methodist Church also shows this belief of people gaining grace through their actions while punishing people for their crimes as the death penalty is only given to those who commit unforgivable crimes.
Who Is a Presbyterian?
A presbyterian is some who believes in the Calvinist doctrine of predestination. They believe that the people who the Almighty God will save from eternal damnation have been chosen beforehand.
Similarly, this doctrine also requires them to believe the ones who will be saved are also predetermined.
The Presbyterian church also reflects these beliefs while punishing people for their sins. They oppose the death penalty for serious to minor crimes.
Major Differences Between Christian and Catholic
Main Differences Between Methodist and Presbyterian
- Methodists practice a tradition-based belief when Presbyterians believe in the leadership of leaders called Presbyters.
- Methodists believe anyone can gain the grace of God through sincere atonement and devotion. Presbyterians believe that the one’s deserving graces and the one to be damned are predestinated to be so, and that atonement does not earn you grace.
- The practice of Methodists is relatively newer compared to Presbyterians.
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Presbyterian Vs. Methodist: The Comparison Table
Below is a comparison table that helps you differentiate both terms by looking at it from the methodist vs. presbyterian perspective.
Parameters of Comparison | Methodist | Presbyterian |
| Founder | John Wesley | John Calvin |
Establishment | 18th Century | 16th Century |
Salvation | Through having faith and justification of actions by grace | Unlimited for those predestinated to be graced by God, limited for the ones predestinated to be damned |
Atonement | Not limited to anyone | Limited for everyone |
| Place of Origin | England | France |
Final Words
Both branches have a huge difference between methodist and presbyterian due to their believes and practice; it was nearly impossible for both to preach at the same church.
However, as the times changed, it can commonly be seen that both pastors or preachers were ruling at the same church.
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