Kitchen Table Theology
Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!
Kitchen Table Theology
227 Christianity’s 3 Major Branches (A Quick Overview)
In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Tiffany Coker and Pastor Jeff Cranston discuss the three major branches—Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant. They dive into their histories, theological distinctions, and worship practices. They also give an overview of Anglicanism, Lutheranism, Presbyterianism, and Methodism, exploring their unique theological and liturgical characteristics.
Here’s What We Discussed!
00:00 Intro to Christian Denominations
This season explores Protestant denominations, focusing on their beliefs, practices, and histories. Pastor Jeff and Tiffany introduce the series structure and outline the three main branches of Christianity: Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant.
02:12 Eastern Orthodox Christianity
Pastor Jeff explains the origins of Eastern Orthodoxy, its split from the Western church in 1054, and its key practices, including liturgical worship, veneration of icons, and theological emphasis on saints and Mary.
04:10 Roman Catholicism
Roman Catholicism, the largest Christian denomination, emphasizes seven sacraments, devotion to Mary and the saints, and the doctrine of Papal infallibility. Worship centers on the Eucharist, guided by Scripture and Sacred Tradition.
09:19 The Protestant Reformation
The Protestant Reformation, led by figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin, sought to reform the Catholic Church. The Five Solas summarize its theological principles.
12:22 Anglicanism
Anglicanism, rooted in the English Reformation, is known for its liturgical heritage, theological foundations, and ties to the Episcopal Church.
17:05 Lutheranism
Lutheranism, founded by Martin Luther, includes diverse branches like the Missouri Synod and Wisconsin Synod, each with unique theological and worship practices.
20:22 Presbyterianism and Methodism
Presbyterianism is grounded in Calvinist theology and the Westminster Confession of Faith. Methodism, founded by John and Charles Wesley, includes various branches like the United Methodist and Global Methodist Churches.
22:46 Preview: The Southern Baptist Convention
The next episode will explore the Southern Baptist Convention, the largest Protestant denomination in the U.S., focusing on its history, beliefs, and practices.
Resources:
- Blog: Quick Guide to Christian Denominations
- Five Solas of the Reformation Part 1
- Five Solas of the Reformation Part 2
Join the Conversation
We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org
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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!