What is not a shared characteristic of mainstream Protestant denominations?

What is not a shared characteristic of mainstream Protestant denominations?

• A. Baptism by immersion
• B. Veneration of the saints
• C. Emphasis on Scripture
• D. Justification by faith

Answer: (B)

In mainstream Protestant denominations, three ideas are widely shared: Scripture is the primary authority for belief and practice; Christians are seen as justified by faith in Christ, not by their own works; and baptism is the expected rite that marks entry into the Christian community, though the exact mode (sprinkling, pouring, or immersion) can vary by tradition. Veneration of the saints is not part of this shared pattern. Protestants emphasize a direct relationship with God through Jesus and typically reject the practice of praying to or seeking intercession from saints, which is a hallmark of Catholic and Orthodox traditions. This makes the veneration of saints the characteristic not shared by mainstream Protestant denominations.

In mainstream Protestant denominations, three ideas are widely shared: Scripture is the primary authority for belief and practice; Christians are seen as justified by faith in Christ, not by their own works; and baptism is the expected rite that marks entry into the Christian community, though the exact mode (sprinkling, pouring, or immersion) can vary by tradition. Veneration of the saints is not part of this shared pattern. Protestants emphasize a direct relationship with God through Jesus and typically reject the practice of praying to or seeking intercession from saints, which is a hallmark of Catholic and Orthodox traditions. This makes the veneration of saints the characteristic not shared by mainstream Protestant denominations.