Puritans Vs. Protestants: What’s the Difference?

What are the core beliefs of Puritans?

The Puritans were a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to “purify” the Church of England from what they viewed as unbiblical practices. Their core beliefs centered around several key theological principles:

1. Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone): Puritans held a high view of biblical authority, believing the Bible to be the ultimate source of religious truth and guidance. They emphasized careful study and interpretation of Scripture as essential for Christian life and practice.(Bouma, 2013)
2. Predestination: Following Calvin’s teachings, Puritans believed in divine predestination – that God had predetermined who would be saved (the elect) and who would be damned. This doctrine was central to Puritan theology and shaped their worldview.(Berg, 1999)
3. Covenant Theology: Puritans saw themselves as being in a special covenant relationship with God, similar to ancient Israel. This informed their sense of divine mission and calling as a people.(Bouma, 2013)
4. Emphasis on Personal Conversion: Puritans stressed the importance of a personal conversion experience and assurance of salvation. They believed true faith would be evidenced by a transformed life.(Berg, 1999)
5. The Sovereignty of God: Puritans emphasized God’s absolute sovereignty over all aspects of life and the universe. This shaped their understanding of providence and God’s involvement in human affairs.
6. The Depravity of Man: In line with Calvinist thought, Puritans held a pessimistic view of human nature, believing in total depravity and the inability of humans to contribute to their own salvation.
7. Simplicity in Worship: Puritans advocated for simpler, less ceremonial forms of worship focused on preaching and Bible study rather than ritual.(Bouma, 2013)
8. Moral Rigor: Puritans placed great emphasis on personal and social morality, seeking to live strictly according to biblical precepts.
9. The Importance of Education: Puritans valued education highly, both for biblical literacy and for creating an educated citizenry. This led to the founding of institutions like Harvard College.
10. Millennialism: Many Puritans held millenarian beliefs, expecting Christ’s return and the establishment of God’s kingdom on earth.(Campbell, 1991)

These core beliefs shaped Puritan theology, practice, and social vision, influencing their approach to personal piety, church governance, and societal reform. Their emphasis on biblical authority, personal conversion, and moral living continue to resonate in various Protestant traditions today.

What are the key doctrinal differences between Puritans and mainstream Protestants?

While Puritans shared many core beliefs with other Protestant groups, they developed distinct doctrinal emphases and interpretations that set them apart from mainstream Protestantism. Here are some key doctrinal differences:

1. Ecclesiology: Puritans advocated for a more thoroughly reformed church structure than mainstream Anglicanism. They rejected the episcopal system and favored either presbyterian or congregational models of church governance. This was a significant departure from the hierarchical structure of the Church of England.(Bouma, 2013)
2. Predestination: While other Calvinist groups also believed in predestination, Puritans placed a particularly strong emphasis on this doctrine. They held to a strict interpretation of double predestination – the belief that God predestined some for salvation and others for damnation. This was more extreme than the views held by many mainstream Protestants.(Berg, 1999)
3. Covenant Theology: Puritans developed a more elaborate covenant theology than many other Protestant groups. They emphasized not only the covenant of grace but also the idea of a national covenant, seeing themselves as a chosen people with a special mission, similar to ancient Israel.(Bouma, 2013)
4. Sabbatarianism: Puritans held a particularly strict view of Sabbath observance, more rigorous than many mainstream Protestants. They saw the entire day as holy and restricted activities more severely.
5. Worship Style: Puritans advocated for a simpler, less ceremonial form of worship than that found in the Anglican Church or other mainstream Protestant denominations. They rejected many traditional liturgical elements as unbiblical.(Bouma, 2013)
6. Sacraments: While Puritans, like other Protestants, recognized only two sacraments (baptism and communion), they had a distinct view of their efficacy. They rejected the Anglican notion of baptismal regeneration and held a “spiritual presence” view of communion, differing from both Catholic transubstantiation and Lutheran consubstantiation.
7. Church-State Relations: Puritans had a unique vision of the relationship between church and state, advocating for a godly commonwealth where civil authorities would enforce religious conformity. This differed from the views of many other Protestant groups.
8. Millennialism: Many Puritans held strong millenarian beliefs, expecting the imminent return of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom on earth. This eschatological focus was more pronounced among Puritans than in mainstream Protestantism of the time.(Campbell, 1991)
9. Sanctification: Puritans placed a strong emphasis on progressive sanctification and the pursuit of holiness in daily life. While other Protestant groups also valued holiness, the Puritan focus on this was particularly intense.
10. Assurance of Salvation: Puritans developed a complex theology around the assurance of salvation, emphasizing the need for self-examination and the search for signs of election. This was more elaborate than the views held by many mainstream Protestants.(Berg, 1999)
11. Biblical Interpretation: While all Protestants emphasized sola scriptura, Puritans developed a particularly rigorous approach to biblical interpretation, emphasizing typology and seeing the Old Testament as directly applicable to their own times.(Bouma, 2013)

These doctrinal differences reflect the Puritans’ desire for a more thoroughly reformed church and society. Their interpretations often pushed Reformed theology to its logical conclusions, resulting in a more intense and comprehensive religious worldview than that found in mainstream Protestantism. These differences contributed to tensions within the Church of England and ultimately led to significant conflicts in both religious and political spheres.

How did the Puritans practice their faith differently from other Protestants?

The Puritans developed distinctive practices that set them apart from other Protestant groups. Their approach to faith was characterized by intensity, rigor, and a comprehensive vision for personal and societal transformation. Here are some key ways in which Puritans practiced their faith differently:

1. Worship Style: Puritan worship was notably austere compared to Anglican or Lutheran services. They rejected elaborate ceremonies, liturgical vestments, and church decorations as unbiblical. Their services centered on lengthy sermons, often lasting several hours, with a focus on expository preaching and biblical instruction.(Ryan, 2013)
2. Sabbath Observance: Puritans were exceptionally strict in their observance of the Sabbath. They viewed the entire day as holy and prohibited not only work but also recreational activities. This level of Sabbatarianism was more extreme than that of many other Protestant groups.
3. Personal Piety: Puritans placed great emphasis on personal spiritual disciplines. They encouraged regular Bible study, prayer, fasting, and self-examination. Many kept detailed spiritual diaries to track their spiritual progress and search for signs of election.(Berg, 1999)
4. Family Worship: Puritans stressed the importance of family worship and religious instruction in the home. Fathers were expected to lead daily family devotions, including Bible reading, catechism instruction, and prayer.
5. Church Discipline: Puritan churches practiced strict church discipline, including public confessions and excommunication for moral failings. This level of communal accountability was more intense than in many other Protestant churches.
6. Education: Puritans placed a high value on education, both for biblical literacy and civic engagement. They established schools and colleges (like Harvard) to train ministers and educate the community. This emphasis on learning was more pronounced than in many other Protestant groups of the time.(Bouma, 2013)
7. Conversion Narratives: Puritans often required individuals to share their conversion experiences before the congregation prior to becoming full church members. This practice of public testimony was not common in other Protestant traditions.
8. Covenant Renewal: Many Puritan churches practiced regular covenant renewal ceremonies, where members would reaffirm their commitment to God and the church community. This was a unique practice not widely found in other Protestant groups.
9. Fast Days: Puritans regularly observed communal fast days in response to perceived divine judgments or in preparation for important events. While other Protestants also fasted, the frequency and communal nature of Puritan fasting was distinctive.
10. Naming Practices: Puritans often gave their children names with religious significance, including virtues (e.g., Patience, Faith) or biblical phrases. This practice was more common among Puritans than other Protestant groups.
11. Simplicity in Dress and Lifestyle: Puritans advocated for simplicity in dress and lifestyle, rejecting what they saw as worldly extravagance. While not unique to Puritans, the extent of this emphasis was notable.
12. Millenarian Practices: Many Puritans engaged in practices related to their millenarian beliefs, such as interpreting current events as signs of the end times and preparing for Christ’s return. This eschatological focus shaped their daily lives in ways not seen in all Protestant groups.(Campbell, 1991)
13. Congregational Participation: Puritan churches often allowed for more congregational participation in church governance and decision-making than hierarchical Protestant denominations.

These practices reflect the Puritans’ desire to live out their faith comprehensively and intensely. Their approach to Christian living was marked by a focus on personal holiness, communal accountability, and the application of biblical principles to all areas of life. While some of these practices can be found in other Protestant traditions, the combination and intensity of these elements created a distinctive Puritan approach to faith that set them apart from their Protestant contemporaries.

What is the legacy of Puritanism in modern Protestant denominations?

The legacy of Puritanism continues to influence modern Protestant denominations in various ways, both explicitly and implicitly. While Puritanism as a distinct movement has faded, its theological emphases, ethical concerns, and cultural impacts persist in contemporary Protestantism. Here are some key aspects of the Puritan legacy:

1. Biblical Authority: The Puritan emphasis on sola scriptura and rigorous biblical interpretation continues to be a hallmark of many Protestant denominations, particularly in evangelical and Reformed traditions. This legacy is seen in the ongoing emphasis on expository preaching and Bible study.(Bouma, 2013)
2. Personal Piety: The Puritan focus on personal spiritual disciplines, including prayer, Bible reading, and self-examination, remains influential in many Protestant circles. This emphasis on individual spiritual growth is particularly evident in evangelical traditions.
3. Conversion Experience: The Puritan emphasis on personal conversion and assurance of salvation continues to shape evangelical theology and practice. The idea of a distinct “born-again” experience owes much to Puritan thought.(Berg, 1999)
4. Work Ethic: The so-called “Protestant work ethic,” often associated with Puritanism, continues to influence cultural values in many Protestant societies. The idea that hard work and frugality are virtues with spiritual significance has its roots in Puritan thought.
5. Education: The Puritan commitment to education, both religious and secular, has had a lasting impact. Many educational institutions founded by Puritans, such as Harvard, continue to be influential. The broader emphasis on the importance of education remains strong in many Protestant denominations.
6. Social Reform: The Puritan vision of a godly society has influenced various Protestant movements for social reform, from abolitionism to temperance to modern social justice initiatives. The idea that faith should impact all areas of life, including social and political spheres, is part of this legacy.
7. Church Governance: Congregational and Presbyterian models of church governance, favored by different Puritan groups, continue to be practiced in many Protestant denominations.
8. Preaching Style: The Puritan emphasis on expository preaching and the centrality of the sermon in worship continues to influence many Protestant traditions, particularly in Reformed and evangelical circles.(Ryan, 2013)
9. Sabbatarianism: While not as strict as in Puritan times, the emphasis on Sunday as a day of rest and worship continues in many Protestant denominations, influenced by Puritan teachings.
10. Moral Rigor: The Puritan emphasis on personal and social morality continues to influence Protestant ethical thought, particularly in more conservative denominations.
11. Millennialism: Puritan millenarian thought has influenced various Protestant eschatological views, particularly in evangelical and fundamentalist traditions.(Campbell, 1991)
12. Covenant Theology: While not universally accepted, covenant theology, which was central to Puritan thought, continues to be influential in Reformed traditions.
13. Simplicity in Worship: The Puritan preference for simpler, less ceremonial forms of worship continues to influence many Protestant denominations, particularly those in the “low church” tradition.
14. Emphasis on Family: The Puritan focus on family as a center of religious instruction and practice continues to be influential, particularly in evangelical circles.
15. Critical Engagement with Culture: The Puritan approach of critically engaging with culture while maintaining distinct Christian values continues to shape how many Protestants approach societal issues.

It’s important to note that this legacy is not uniform across all Protestant denominations. Some embrace it more fully, while others have moved away from certain aspects of Puritan thought and practice. Additionally, the interpretation and application of this legacy vary widely among different Protestant groups. Nonetheless, the impact of Puritanism on the development of Protestantism, particularly in English-speaking countries, remains significant and continues to shape various aspects of Protestant theology, practice, and cultural engagement.

What were the main criticisms of Puritanism by other Protestants?

Firstly, many Protestants viewed Puritans as overly strict and legalistic in their interpretation and application of Biblical principles. The Puritans were known for their rigorous moral codes and emphasis on personal and societal holiness, which some other Protestant groups saw as excessive(Nayeem & Uddin, 2013). There was a perception that Puritans were too focused on outward behavior and conformity rather than inner spiritual transformation.

Secondly, the Puritan desire for further reform of the Church of England was seen as divisive and destabilizing by more moderate Protestants. While other Protestant groups were content with the compromises of the English Reformation, Puritans pushed for more radical changes in church governance, liturgy, and practice. This put them at odds with the Anglican establishment and other Protestant factions(Nayeem & Uddin, 2013).

Thirdly, some criticized what they saw as an overly individualistic approach to faith among Puritans. The emphasis on personal conversion experiences and assurance of salvation was viewed skeptically by traditions that placed more emphasis on the communal aspects of faith(Thiel, 1983). 

Fourthly, the Puritan tendency toward separatism and the formation of gathered churches was seen as schismatic by other Protestants who valued unity within the established church. The Puritan impulse to separate from perceived corruption led to accusations that they were divisive(Nayeem & Uddin, 2013).

Fifthly, some Protestants were uncomfortable with aspects of Puritan theology, particularly their strong emphasis on predestination and election. More Arminian-leaning Protestants rejected what they saw as a harsh doctrine of limited atonement(Thiel, 1983).

Lastly, the Puritan approach to society and politics drew criticism. Their attempts to create a godly commonwealth and regulate public morality through legislation were seen by some as theocratic overreach(Nayeem & Uddin, 2013). The close alignment of church and state in Puritan New England was viewed warily by those who favored a greater separation.

How did Puritans view and interpret the Bible compared to other Protestants?

Firstly, Puritans held an extremely high view of biblical authority. While all Protestants emphasized sola scriptura (scripture alone), Puritans took this principle to its logical extreme. They viewed the Bible as the ultimate and sufficient guide for all matters of faith and practice, often rejecting church traditions or human reasoning that seemed to contradict scripture(Edwards, 2009). This led to a more literal and strict interpretation of biblical commands and principles.

Secondly, Puritans emphasized the unity and coherence of scripture. They saw the Bible as a unified whole, with the Old and New Testaments forming a continuous narrative of God’s redemptive plan. This led them to interpret Old Testament laws and prophecies as directly applicable to their own time, often in ways that other Protestants found extreme(Edwards, 2009).

Thirdly, Puritans placed great emphasis on personal Bible study and lay interpretation. While valuing learned ministers, they believed every Christian should be able to read and understand scripture for themselves. This democratization of biblical interpretation was more radical than in some other Protestant traditions that still relied heavily on clerical authority(Compton, 2020).

Fourthly, Puritans favored a plain or literal sense interpretation of scripture, rejecting much of the allegorical and typological interpretation that was common in medieval exegesis and still influential in other Protestant traditions. They believed the Bible’s meaning was clear and accessible to the ordinary reader guided by the Holy Spirit(Edwards, 2009).

Fifthly, Puritans saw the Bible as directly applicable to all areas of life. They sought to derive specific guidance from scripture not just for personal spirituality, but for family life, business practices, social interactions, and civil government. This comprehensive application of biblical principles to society was more extensive than in many other Protestant groups(Compton, 2020).

Lastly, Puritans emphasized the experiential dimension of scripture. They believed that truly understanding the Bible required not just intellectual comprehension, but a transformative spiritual experience. They sought to apply scripture personally and emotionally in ways that went beyond the more rationalistic approach of some other Protestant traditions(Compton, 2020).

How did the Puritans’ social and moral codes differ from other Protestant groups?

Firstly, Puritans placed a much stronger emphasis on the regulation of personal behavior. While all Protestant groups had moral standards, Puritans were known for their detailed codes of conduct that governed even minor aspects of daily life. They had strict rules about dress, speech, leisure activities, and social interactions that went beyond what most other Protestant groups required(Hadjar, 2003).

Secondly, Puritans had a more robust concept of communal responsibility for morality. They believed that the community as a whole had a duty to uphold godly standards and correct those who strayed. This led to practices like church discipline and public confessions that were more intense than in other Protestant traditions(Hadjar, 2003).

Thirdly, Puritans were more likely to seek legal enforcement of moral standards. In areas where they held political power, such as New England, Puritans passed laws regulating moral behavior that other Protestant groups might have left to individual conscience. This included laws against blasphemy, Sabbath-breaking, and sexual immorality(THE PATTERNS OF FEM ALE BEHAVIOUR IN THE LIGHT OF 19TH AND EARLY 20th CENTURY MORAL CODES, 2013).

Fourthly, Puritans had a distinctive work ethic that set them apart. While other Protestant groups also valued hard work, Puritans elevated it to a spiritual duty. They saw diligent labor in one’s calling as a form of worship and a sign of election, leading to a more intense focus on productivity and economic success(Holifield, 2003).

Fifthly, Puritans had a more ascetic approach to pleasure and recreation. While not completely rejecting enjoyment, they were more suspicious of activities that might distract from spiritual pursuits. This led to stricter attitudes toward things like theater, dancing, and holiday celebrations than were found in many other Protestant groups(Hadjar, 2003).

Sixthly, Puritans placed a stronger emphasis on family governance and discipline. They saw the family as a “little church” and expected parents, especially fathers, to take an active role in the spiritual formation and moral education of their children. This led to more structured family devotions and stricter child-rearing practices than were common in other Protestant traditions(Weaver, 2010).

Lastly, Puritans had a more comprehensive view of vocation. While other Protestants also believed in the priesthood of all believers, Puritans more fully developed the idea that every legitimate occupation could be a calling from God. This led to a greater sacralization of ordinary work and daily life(Holifield, 2003).

What are some notable Puritan theologians and their contributions to Protestant thought?

Puritan theology made significant contributions to Protestant thought through the work of several notable theologians. Here are some of the most influential Puritan thinkers and their key contributions:

1. William Perkins (1558-1602): Often called the “father of Puritanism,” Perkins was a pioneering systematic theologian. His major contribution was developing a Reformed understanding of predestination and assurance of salvation. He emphasized the “golden chain” of salvation, linking divine decrees with human experience. Perkins also wrote influential works on casuistry (case-based moral reasoning) that shaped Puritan approaches to ethics(Vozniuk, 2017).
2. William Ames (1576-1633): A student of Perkins, Ames further developed Puritan covenant theology. His major work, “The Marrow of Theology,” was widely used as a textbook and helped shape Puritan thought on the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Ames also emphasized the practical application of theology to daily life(Vozniuk, 2017).
3. John Owen (1616-1683): Considered by many as the greatest of Puritan theologians, Owen made significant contributions to Trinitarian theology, Christology, and pneumatology (the doctrine of the Holy Spirit). His work on limited atonement and justification by faith was particularly influential in Reformed circles. Owen also wrote extensively on the nature of sin and sanctification(Kahn & Lagos, 2019).
4. Richard Baxter (1615-1691): While somewhat controversial for his “middle way” between strict Calvinism and Arminianism, Baxter was hugely influential through his practical writings on Christian living. His “Christian Directory” was a comprehensive guide to Puritan piety and ethics. Baxter also developed a more inclusive view of church membership that influenced later evangelical thought(Vozniuk, 2017).
5. Thomas Goodwin (1600-1680): Goodwin made significant contributions to Puritan understanding of religious experience. He emphasized the work of the Holy Spirit in conversion and assurance, developing a sophisticated understanding of the psychology of faith. Goodwin also wrote influential works on ecclesiology (the doctrine of the church)(Vozniuk, 2017).
6. Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758): While late in the Puritan tradition, Edwards is often considered its greatest theologian. He synthesized Puritan thought with Enlightenment philosophy, developing new approaches to free will, original sin, and the nature of religious affections. Edwards’ work on revival and religious experience was particularly influential(Prinster, 2019).
7. Thomas Brooks (1608-1680): Brooks made significant contributions to Puritan pastoral theology. His works on spiritual warfare, temptation, and assurance were widely read and continue to influence evangelical spirituality today(Vozniuk, 2017).
8. John Bunyan (1628-1688): While best known for his allegorical work “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” Bunyan was also an important theological writer. His works on justification by faith and the nature of the Christian life popularized Puritan theology for a broader audience(Vozniuk, 2017).

These theologians, among others, helped develop a distinctively Puritan approach to Protestant theology. They emphasized experiential faith, practical godliness, and the comprehensive application of biblical principles to all areas of life. Their work on covenant theology, predestination, sanctification, and religious experience continues to influence Reformed and evangelical thought today(Kahn & Lagos, 2019; Prinster, 2019; Vozniuk, 2017).

How did the Puritan movement influence education and literacy?

Firstly, Puritans placed a high value on universal education. They believed that every person, regardless of social status or gender, should be able to read the Bible for themselves. This led to the establishment of public schools in New England and increased support for education in England. The Massachusetts Bay Colony passed laws in 1642 and 1647 requiring towns to establish and maintain schools, laying the foundation for America’s public education system(Compton, 2020).

Secondly, Puritans emphasized literacy as a religious duty. The ability to read scripture was seen as essential for spiritual growth and salvation. This religious motivation for literacy led to higher rates of reading ability among Puritans compared to other groups. In New England, literacy rates were significantly higher than in England or other American colonies(Compton, 2020).

Thirdly, Puritans developed new educational methods and curricula. They favored practical, skill-based education that prepared students for both religious duties and secular vocations. This included not just reading and writing, but also arithmetic, history, and practical arts. The Puritan emphasis on critical thinking and questioning in Bible study also influenced their broader educational approach(Compton, 2020).

Fourthly, Puritans were instrumental in the founding of higher education institutions. Harvard College, established in 1636, was founded by Puritans to train ministers and educated laypeople. Yale, Dartmouth, and other early American colleges also had Puritan roots. These institutions helped establish a tradition of higher education in America(Vozniuk, 2017).

Fifthly, Puritan theology influenced the content of education. Their emphasis on the sovereignty of God and the importance of understanding His creation led to a curriculum that included not just religious studies, but also natural philosophy (science) and classical languages. This laid the groundwork for a broad liberal arts education(Vozniuk, 2017).

Sixthly, Puritans promoted female education to a greater extent than was common at the time. While still limited compared to male education, Puritan girls were more likely to receive basic schooling than their counterparts in other traditions. This was driven by the belief that women needed to be able to read the Bible and instruct their children(Compton, 2020).

Lastly, Puritan print culture significantly impacted literacy. They were prolific producers of religious literature, including sermons, devotional works, and theological treatises. This created a demand for reading material and encouraged the development of printing and bookselling industries(Compton, 2020).

What are the similarities and differences between Puritanism and other Reformed traditions?

Puritanism, while part of the broader Reformed tradition, had distinctive features that set it apart from other Reformed groups. Here are some key similarities and differences:

Similarities:

1. Theological Foundation: Like other Reformed traditions, Puritanism was rooted in Calvinist theology. They shared core doctrines such as the sovereignty of God, predestination, and salvation by grace alone through faith alone(Thiel, 1983).
2. Emphasis on Scripture: Puritans, like other Reformed groups, held to the principle of sola scriptura, viewing the Bible as the ultimate authority for faith and practice(Edwards, 2009).
3. Covenant Theology: Puritans developed and emphasized covenant theology, a concept central to Reformed thought. They saw God’s relationship with humanity in terms of covenants, both the covenant of works and the covenant of grace(Vozniuk, 2017).
4. Rejection of Catholic Practices: Puritans shared with other Reformed groups a rejection of many Catholic practices and doctrines, such as the veneration of saints and the doctrine of transubstantiation(Nayeem & Uddin, 2013).
5. Emphasis on Preaching: Like other Reformed traditions, Puritans placed great importance on the preaching of the Word as a means of grace(Engelhardt, 2015).

Differences:

1. Intensity of Reform: Puritans generally sought more radical reform than many other Reformed groups. While Continental Reformed churches were content with their level of reform, Puritans felt the Church of England had not gone far enough in purifying itself of Catholic elements(Nayeem & Uddin, 2013).
2. Church Polity: While most Reformed traditions favored presbyterian governance, some Puritans (particularly in New England) developed a congregationalist system that gave more autonomy to individual churches(Vozniuk, 2017).
3. Experiential Emphasis: Puritans placed a stronger emphasis on personal religious experience and the “morphology of conversion” than many other Reformed groups. They developed detailed analyses of the stages of salvation in individual experience(Weaver, 2010).
4. Social Vision: Puritans had a more comprehensive vision for reforming society according to biblical principles. While other Reformed groups also sought to apply faith to all areas of life, Puritans were more likely to seek legal enforcement of moral standards(THE PATTERNS OF FEM ALE BEHAVIOUR IN THE LIGHT OF 19TH AND EARLY 20th CENTURY MORAL CODES, 2013).
5. Sabbatarianism: While most Reformed groups valued Sunday observance, Puritans developed a particularly strict form of Sabbatarianism that was not universally shared(Hadjar, 2003).
6. Approach to Worship: Puritans favored a more austere and simple form of worship than some other Reformed traditions. They were particularly opposed to any elements they saw as human inventions in worship(Nayeem & Uddin, 2013).