The Emerging Fourth Branch of Christendom

And How to Keep Your Church Identity

A few days ago, I came across an intriguing framework for understanding the development of Christendom from a Reformed Anglican or Presbyterian perspective. The author of this framework laid out what has long been recognized by serious students of church history: Christendom has historically encompassed three main branches:

1. Orthodoxy

2. Catholicism

3. Protestantism

The author suggested that a fourth branch, Evangelicalism, has now emerged, distinct in its characteristics and identity from the traditional three. Reflecting on my own 20 years as a Christian, 10 of which I’ve served as a pastor, this framework resonates deeply and, I believe, accurately captures the trends within modern Christianity. Here’s why.

While Evangelicalism emerged out of Protestantism, it has diverged significantly. It often bears more in common with the Anabaptist tradition, characterized by a radical individualism, than with the historical streams of Presbyterianism, Anglicanism, or even Lutheranism. This fourth branch has developed specific traits that distinguish it from the historical Protestant heritage.

Key Characteristics of Evangelicalism

Evangelicalism has emerged as a distinct movement, exhibiting twelve general characteristics:

1. Followers of Jesus – Rather than identify with historical Protestant labels or creeds, many within this movement prefer terms like “followers of Jesus,” shying away from traditional affiliations with either denominations or confessions.

2. Nondenominational Identity – Evangelical churches often choose to remain non-denominational or to minimize any denominational ties. Names like “Baptist” or “Church of God” are frequently removed to convey independence from historical church traditions.

3. Charismatic or Pentecostal Leanings – Charismatic and Pentecostal spirituality, including practices like speaking in tongues, prophesying, and faith healing has become common within Evangelicalism.

4. The Bible Only (Solo Scriptura) – Evangelicals tend to interpret Scripture apart from the interpretive lens of church history, operating on a “Solo Scriptura” basis rather than the Protestant doctrine of Sola Scriptura, which affirms the authority of Scripture while respecting the historical wisdom of the church.

5. Mere Christianity – This movement often advocates for a “mere Christianity” approach, emphasizing core doctrines like the Trinity, incarnation, and resurrection but avoiding stances on issues such as church polity, women’s ordination, or the role of sacraments, which are integral in the Protestant tradition.

6. Noncreedal – Most Evangelical churches avoid formal creeds, such as the Apostles’ or Nicene Creeds, and do not adhere to Reformed confessions like the Westminster Confession of Faith. Instead, they adopt basic statements of faith that lack the theological depth found in historic Protestantism.

7. Nonliturgical Worship – The Evangelical worship style is typically informal, devoid of structured liturgies or the sacramental focus characteristic of the Protestant tradition.

8. Contemporary Worship over Hymns – Rather than the rich hymnody or psalm-singing of historic Reformed worship, Evangelical services emphasize contemporary praise music, reflecting a shift from the doctrinal content of hymns to a more emotive worship experience.

9. Nonsacramental Theology – Evangelicalism often treats ordinances like the Lord’s Supper as symbolic memorials rather than as means of grace. Reformed churches affirm that in Communion, we experience Christ’s real presence, but Evangelicals generally approach it as a personal or communal statement of faith rather than an encounter with Christ’s grace.

10. Congregational Polity – Evangelical churches usually adopt an independent, congregational model, lacking the episcopal or presbyterian governance structures that provide accountability and connection to the broader church tradition.

11. Revivalism – Revival meetings, worship nights, and altar calls aimed at generating conversions and personal rededications are hallmarks of Evangelical practice, contrasting with the Reformed emphasis on covenantal worship and discipleship over emotional appeals.

12. Megachurch Phenomenon – Evangelicalism has seen the rise of megachurches led by prominent pastors who often become central figures in their congregations, contrasting with the Presbyterian focus on shared elder leadership and accountability.

Implications for Reformed and Anglican Churches

Understanding these characteristics sheds light on why there is often tension between Evangelicalism and the historic branches of Christendom. The nature of Evangelicalism’s independence and individualism has led it to evolve away from historical Protestant values, creating a unique branch that is largely unanchored to the traditional foundations of Protestantism.

For Reformed pastors, this framework offers clarity when members express a desire to integrate these Evangelical practices. There is a subtle pressure to adopt Evangelical methods—“Pastor, let’s host a revival to attract more people,” or “We could update our worship by doing away with the hymns and formalities.” These suggestions, while well-meaning, reflect an underlying departure from the Reformed ecclesial identity, which is rooted in Scripture, the sacraments, and confessional integrity.

The original author of this framework laid out these characteristics neutrally, but I find this description illuminating for why so many Reformed churches are struggling to retain their identity in the face of a culture steeped in Evangelical values. As pastors within the Reformed Protestant tradition, it’s vital to recognize this emerging Evangelical branch as distinct from our heritage. Knowing this, we are better equipped to reassert our historical and theological commitments, ensuring our congregations remain faithful to the doctrines and practices of Reformed Christianity in the midst of modern shifts.