What is the main difference between Protestantism and Orthodoxy? by Fr. Gabriel Wissa

What is the main difference between Protestantism and Orthodoxy?

In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, One God. Amen.

What is the main difference between Protestant and Orthodox theologies? In comparing both traditions, one can easily find numerous differences. However, these could be summed up into a handful of concepts. Today’s video focuses on potentially the most important distinction between both traditions.

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[Trigathus]

Love from an Armenian Apostolic. I love your channel so much and I love my Coptic brothers and sisters! God bless you abouna's!

[tiasunepamri]

I am a protestant. I find this (the one explained in the video) concept of salvation to be a holistic. Thank you so much.

[PastorScottIngram]

I am a Baptist pastor.

I believe that there is a moment of salvation when one passes from death to life when one will "confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead" The scripture says "thou shalt be saved." That is justification.

I also believe if one has done that they will live their lives in the process of sanctification (a process which is theosis from your perspective I believe) as Ephesians 2:10 teaches: "we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." Those words come right after "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." So, you see, I, too, believe that we "work out our own salvation" in the process of sanctification which seems to be to me what you call theosis, but it must begin with justification.

I believe this process will end when I get to Heaven in glorification. That glorification seems to be the same place you are heading with theosis.
The BIG DIFFERENCE I see is that you don't know for certain you are saved and believe that you can lose that salvation. I don't believe that because 1 John 5:10-13 says i can KNOW that i am saved. I must merely believe and that belief does bring out the works of sanctification. Belief is simply receiving the gift prepared by God which is eternal life by what Christ had done for us. I believe the record God gave of His Son: "He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God." I have believed the record given of His Son and I have the Son. I have life. I have this witness in myself.

ETERNAL LIFE cannot be lost because it is ETERNAL. I hope this helps you see my understanding in these differences. I enjoy your videos even if we disagree on some points.

[johnex]

Authority: In Protestantism, the ultimate authority is generally placed on the Bible alone, a concept known as sola scriptura. Each individual is encouraged to interpret the Bible for themselves. In contrast, Orthodoxy recognizes the authority of Scripture, but also places significant emphasis on apostolic tradition, the teachings of the early Church Fathers, and the decisions of ecumenical councils.

Church Structure: Protestantism is characterized by a diverse range of denominations with varying forms of church governance. Many Protestant denominations have a congregational or democratic structure, where decisions are often made by the local congregation or its leadership. Orthodoxy, on the other hand, follows an episcopal structure, with a hierarchical system of bishops, priests, and deacons, led by the Patriarchs and autocephalous (self-governing) churches.

Sacraments: Protestants generally recognize two sacraments, namely baptism and the Lord's Supper (also known as communion or the Eucharist). Some Protestant denominations may recognize additional sacraments, while others may not consider them sacraments at all. Orthodoxy recognizes the same sacraments as Catholicism, including baptism, Eucharist, confirmation (chrismation), confession (penance), holy orders, matrimony, and anointing of the sick.

Theology and Doctrine: Protestantism encompasses a wide range of theological perspectives, but it generally emphasizes concepts such as salvation by faith alone (sola fide) and the priesthood of all believers. Orthodoxy, with its roots in early Christianity, places a strong emphasis on mystical theology, theosis (the process of becoming united with God), and the significance of the liturgy and sacraments.

Worship and Liturgy: Protestant worship practices can vary significantly, with some denominations having more informal and contemporary services, while others follow traditional liturgies. Orthodox worship is characterized by a highly structured and elaborate liturgical tradition, featuring icons, incense, chanting, and a rich visual and sensory experience.

Salvation: Protestantism, particularly in its various branches like Lutheranism or Reformed theology, often emphasizes salvation by grace through faith alone (sola gratia, sola fide). This means that individuals are saved solely by God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ, rather than through any works or rituals. Orthodoxy, while affirming the importance of faith and God's grace, also places emphasis on the transformative process of theosis, which involves cooperation with God's grace and the ongoing participation in the sacraments and spiritual disciplines.

Mary and the Saints: Protestantism generally has a less prominent role for Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the saints compared to Orthodoxy. While some Protestant denominations honor Mary and the saints, their veneration and intercession are not as central as in Orthodoxy. Orthodoxy has a deep reverence for Mary as the Theotokos (Mother of God) and honors the saints as models of holiness and intercessors.

Original Sin: Protestantism often teaches the concept of original sin inherited from Adam and Eve, which impacts all human beings, resulting in a sinful nature and separation from God. In Orthodoxy, while acknowledging the reality of original sin, the emphasis is more on ancestral sin, the consequences of Adam and Eve's disobedience, rather than an inherited guilt or total depravity.

Iconography: Orthodoxy places a significant emphasis on the use of icons, religious images of Christ, Mary, and the saints. Icons are seen as windows to the heavenly realm and aids to prayer and worship. Protestantism, particularly in its more Reformed and iconoclastic traditions, has historically been cautious about or rejected the use of icons, considering them as potential objects of idolatry.

Historical Development: Protestantism emerged during the Reformation in the 16th century as a response to perceived doctrinal and institutional issues within Catholicism. It sought to reform and renew the Church based on the principles of sola scriptura and salvation by faith. Orthodoxy, on the other hand, traces its roots back to the early Christian Church and has preserved a sense of continuity with apostolic tradition and the early Church Fathers.

Eucharistic Beliefs: Protestantism has varying views on the Eucharist. Some denominations hold to the belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, while others see it as a symbolic memorial. In contrast, Orthodoxy holds to the belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, viewing it as a sacrament in which the bread and wine are transformed into the body and blood of Christ.

Approach to Tradition: Protestantism generally takes a more diverse and varied approach to tradition. While it acknowledges the importance of tradition, it often places a greater emphasis on individual interpretation of Scripture. Orthodoxy, on the other hand, sees tradition as a vital source of authority and interpretation alongside Scripture, viewing it as the lived faith of the Church passed down through the ages.

Understanding of Justification: Protestantism, particularly influenced by Martin Luther's theology, emphasizes the doctrine of justification by faith. It teaches that individuals are justified before God by faith in Christ alone, apart from works. Orthodoxy, while affirming the importance of faith, emphasizes a more synergistic view of salvation, in which faith is accompanied by a cooperative response of the believer through works and participation in the sacraments.

Relationship with the State: Historically, Orthodox Churches have often had close ties with the state or government. In some cases, Orthodox Christianity has been the dominant or even the official religion of certain countries. In contrast, Protestantism has generally emphasized the separation of church and state, with a focus on individual freedom of belief and conscience.

Liturgical Languages: Orthodox liturgical services are often conducted in traditional languages such as Greek, Slavonic, or Arabic, depending on the local tradition. However, efforts are made to translate liturgical texts into the vernacular languages for the understanding of the worshipers. Protestant worship services, especially in more contemporary denominations, are commonly conducted in the local language of the worshiping community.

Soteriology: Protestantism, particularly in its Reformed branches, emphasizes the concept of predestination. It teaches that God, in His sovereignty, chooses individuals for salvation or damnation. Orthodoxy, on the other hand, generally holds a more inclusive view, emphasizing the universal offer of salvation and the cooperation between God's grace and human free will.

Ecclesiology: Protestantism often views the Church as an invisible, universal body of believers who share a common faith in Christ. It emphasizes the priesthood of all believers, with each individual having direct access to God. Orthodoxy places greater emphasis on the visible, sacramental nature of the Church, seeing it as the visible body of Christ on earth with a hierarchical structure.

Asceticism and Monasticism: Orthodoxy has a strong tradition of asceticism and monasticism, with monks and nuns dedicating themselves to a life of prayer, contemplation, and self-denial. This emphasis on asceticism is less pronounced in Protestantism, although some Protestant denominations have monastic orders or individuals who practice ascetic disciplines.

Approach to Scripture: Protestantism generally emphasizes individual interpretation of Scripture, with a strong emphasis on personal study and the priesthood of all believers. In contrast, Orthodoxy places greater emphasis on the corporate interpretation of Scripture within the context of the Church's tradition and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Role of Reason and Philosophy: Protestantism, particularly influenced by the Enlightenment, often places a high value on reason and individual understanding. It seeks to reconcile faith with reason and may engage in theological reflection using philosophical methods. Orthodoxy, while not rejecting reason, tends to give more weight to the mystery and mystical aspects of faith, placing a greater emphasis on divine revelation and the teachings of the Church Fathers.

[EchosofAlexandria]

can you do the same video with the difference between us (the oriental orthodox church/coptic) and the catholic church? and us (the oriental orthodox church/coptic) and the eastern orthodox church?

[Awakeningspirit]

I always love listening to you, as a Catholic. I feel like Catholics sometimes get too caught up on the same 'wrath'/ fire and brimstone concept as, not surprisingly, the Protestants who emerged from us. You guys take it a step forward, not to say Catholics don't believe in similar or the same concepts, but we compete and live alongside with the Protestants in post-Reformation cultures and often end up using the same sorts of rhetoric. Easterners stay mystical, and you'll only find our mysticism in the Catechism or in some great homilies. Coptic Orthodox must be the wisest of the Orthodox because all your videos are so great!

[glenhowell]

I appreciate your teaching. Keep teaching!

[josueinhan]

Your theology, brethren, is similar to the Armininanism. Quite similar. However, we must emphasize that John Calvin believed in the Mystical Union with Christ, just as you do, though he had a more judicial understanding of the Atonement, Penal Substitution and Justification. If the "guilty" (Jesus Christ who carried our sins on the cross) was dead, so the lawsuit ceased to exist. (Colossians 2:13-14 [note the judicial pauline language]) And now, by faith in Him, we are justified (declared free from the accusation of transgression) and made partakers of the Divine Nature to bears fruits and walk in newness of life (2 Pe 1). And, yes, I think we can say that now we are being deified/glorified if we truly walk as Jesus walked. This is our basic understanding as Reformed Christians. For us, sanctification (deification) is a synergistic process, but justification is only monergistic, it's for the elect who believed because was brought by the Fater. (John 10:26-29)

But my goal here is NOT to discuss, neither to provoke quarrels, but just to clarify our point of view.

Furthermore I'd like to say that WE, FROM THE PROTESTANT GALAXY, WE LOVE YOU, GUYS! ❤ and I, personally, admire very much your perseverance and faithufulness in Egypt. I'll be always being kind and praying to my Coptic brethren.

God bless you more and more, in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, One God. Amem. 🙏❤❤❤ 🤲🤝

Ps: and If you are a Protestant but also love your Coptic Orthodox brothers, pls hit the 👍

[MRVIDEOMASTER-ywqw]

God loves you all! Jesus Christ IS God and He died for you and your sins and of course I really do believe that God DID raise Him from the dead! Put your faith in Christ's death and resurrection! Amen!

[ricksivley]

You put a lot of emphasis on baptism as the final part of salvation if I understand it correctly but I would say the thief on the cross went to Paradise the moment he died. If it can happen for one then it can happen for all. Even Paul said I did not come to baptize. I believe orthodoxy puts a lot of faith in former authors (who you call saints) and a lot of history but history does not automatically mean correct because even Paul had to go correct miss teachings in many churches that was started in the early days. I guess what I'm saying a historical track record does not mean accurate teaching.
I just watched another video where the orthodox priest (and I'm not going to call him Father Paul because the Bible says call no man father) talks about saints. All through the Bible I keep seeing references to saints meaning believers and the many of the verses in the New testament they were talking about going to the saints who are still alive. I don't believe human beings should lift other human beings up and label them saints because we don't know what was in their hearts but we can only see their outward deeds but not knowing their true motives. Jesus always refer to the poor and humble and even said bring the poor people and sit them on the front row so obviously the rich people would sit in other places. The lifting up of saints and especially praying to saints is not biblical. Anyone that denies this next verse, denies the Bible.
1 Timothy 2:5
For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,

People should not pray to saints!

[ReformaIbague]

You should read romans 1 how Paul started the arguments for the

[driftaway]

What does orthodoxy directly disagree with within protestantism

[danettecross]

Protestants believe in Baptism. But many of us do not agree with the baptism of babies and people who are too young to, with full knowledge, accept Christ and be baptised. We believe in the Eucharist, the taking of communion, but not all believe that it miraculously and literally turns into the body and blood of Christ as He said to do this in 'rememberance of Him', how his body was broken and his blood shed. Many of us do not see where the bread and wine were mixed together into a soup of sorts and fed to recipients but rather that the bread was broken and handed to those who would partake, as was the cup, which may be communal. So yes, there are differences, but it seems that these are distractions from each others true faith, true love and a humble desire to do God's will.

[SeanWinters]

I've seen several Orthodox guys now say that Protestants believe that God was "angry", when did my whole life as a protestant, this is never been the idea I've been aware of. Instead, the idea has been all about Justice. God requires Justice, after all, he is just. Which is why he sent Christ.
So no, Protestants don't really believe that God was literally angry, unless you're just talking about Calvinists or something, most Protestants believe that it was just a matter of Justice being upheld, that someone has to pay for the crimes of our sin, Jesus made a payment which could cover all sin and crimes, and if we accept his pardon, then we will be viewed as not having committed such sins(or rather, that our debt had been paid and our sentence has been fulfilled).

It's not literally about anger, God wasn't angry with Jesus, where was he literally angry with us. Perhaps you misunderstand and connect the word wrath with anger, but these are two different concepts, God's wrath is a matter of Justice not of heated passionate anger.

[jenex]

I see orthdox similar to Arminian Theology, the Arminians.

When you say protestant you are saying one camp. There are many theological beliefs.

[ThSEF]

I am Sorry. But my whole lutheran education comprised both aspekts: Salvation and recreation by Christ. I Reader this in Luthers writings. Is the whole buch of Lutherans clandestine orthodox?

[Mygoalwogel]

Am I wrong to think that synergism in Oriental Orthodoxy is different from Eastern Orthodoxy? Your explanation of synergy sounds rather like Anglican or Lutheran sacramental theology.

[paullim]

Sir, I believe you have a fundamental misunderstanding of protestantism. Every single one says that good works will flow from salvation. There are none that say that accepting Christ does not lead to Good works. What you are saying essentially sounds like God sacrifices insufficient for salvation and therefore we need to do works.

[alfzepo]

Synergistic salvation lessens what Christ has done for us.

[bernardauberson]

Les réformateurs lisaient la Bible, mais n’ont pas compris ce qu’ils lisaient!, il y a plus encore: ils ont oublié la règle des 2 témoins pour être véridique! Voir St Jean 8, 13-18, Le témoignage de deux personnes est vrai! La Bible et l’enseignement des Apôtres et des Saints Pères, ça fait 2. La Sola Scriptura ne tient pas la route et conduit à la ruine, d’où le nombre incroyable de sectes! A bon entendeur, salut.