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Introduction to Methodism
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John
Wesley - Founder of Methodism |
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John Wesley is usually credited as the founder of the Methodist
Tradition and was known for an evangelical style of preaching
that emphasized conversion and holiness. John's brother
Charles also contributed to the early development of the
Methodist movement and was a gifted hymn writer. The
ministry of both John and Charles reflected their conviction
that God's grace was available to all and that genuine
Christianity was best revealed in the day to day lives of
believers. |
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"The
Methodists" - An Uncomplimentary Label |
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While attending Oxford University in England the Wesleys, along
with several other students, formed a small group that became
known by fellow students as the "Holy Club." This group of
young Christians met regularly to worship, study, pray and help
the underprivileged. Because this "Holy Club" was so intention
in the manner in which they practiced their faith, they were
eventually labeled "Methodists" . . . not out of respect, but
rather as a form of derision. |
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Evangelism
- The Style of John Wesley |
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John Wesley's style was greeted with enthusiasm among the
working classes of his day, for which the Church of England held
little appeal. At the same time, he was barred from
speaking from the official Church pulpit even though he was an
ordained Anglican Priest. As a result, Wesley took to
preaching and evangelizing wherever he could find an audience .
. . street corners, homes, barns or open fields. These
meetings gave birth to a revival of religious fervor in England,
especially among the poor. |
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Methodists
- In Early America |
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Wesleys served briefly as missionaries to the colony in Georgia,
but they soon returned to England, somewhat disillusioned with
their efforts. Methodism as an organized tradition came
later to the Americas with the arrival of missionaries sent by
John Wesley. Francis Asbury, commissioned in 1771, was
instrumental in establishing the Methodist church in America.
In time, "Circuit Riders" preached on a route within an assigned
geographic area serving several congregations of Methodists.
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Methodist
Beliefs - Traced Back to the Wesleys |
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John Wesley taught a "practical divinity" which emphasized
putting faith and love into action in our daily lives.
Both his message and his work among the poor and disadvantaged
encouraged a social consciousness which is still very much a
part of the Methodist Tradition. His distinctive
understanding of God's grace, available to all, is also
foundational to Methodist beliefs. |
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