60-second overview
A nineteenth-century Protestant renewal movement rooted mainly in Wesleyan teaching on sanctification and holy living. It helped shape Nazarene, Salvation Army, and early Pentecostal traditions.
History and identity
Holiness groups emphasize God’s grace not only to forgive but also to transform. Many teach entire sanctification as a distinct work of grace, although explanations differ. Some are strongly Arminian and revivalist; others are more sacramental or disciplined.
What the group says about itself
What this group teaches and practices
Wesleyan-Arminian soteriology. Strong emphasis on sanctification and holy living. Historical bridge between Methodism and Pentecostalism.
Core teachings and practices
- Wesleyan-Arminian soteriology.
- Strong emphasis on sanctification and holy living.
- Historical bridge between Methodism and Pentecostalism.
Variation across churches
Moderate variation within the groupWhat it shares with the Reformed Baptist Base Beliefs
This group is within historic Nicene Christianity, with broad agreement on the Triune God and Jesus Christ’s full deity and humanity. Other important differences may still remain.
Important differences from the Reformed Baptist Base Beliefs
The movement shares the Protestant Scripture, gospel, and justification core. Wesleyan-Arminian soteriology and entire-sanctification teaching remain important differences, while its varied polity and practice are not treated as one contrary position.
How it relates to historic Nicene Christianity
Inside historic Nicene ChristianityThis group is within historic Nicene Christianity.
Boundary guideRelated groups
Sources
The group’s own sources come first, followed by outside context and the guide’s comparison.
- Church of the Nazarene — Articles of FaithVerifiedOfficial doctrine
- The Salvation Army International — The Doctrines of The Salvation ArmyVerifiedOfficial doctrine
- Assemblies of God (USA) — Statement of Fundamental TruthsVerifiedOfficial doctrine
- Church of the Nazarene — 2023 ManualVerifiedReputable secondary source
- The Salvation Army — Handbook of DoctrineVerifiedOfficial doctrine