Methodism

Methodism, often referred to as the Methodist movement, is a branch of Protestant Christianity shaped by the life and teachings of John Wesley, along with early leaders like George Whitefield and John’s brother Charles Wesley. The name came from their “methodical” approach to living out their faith. It began as a revival within the Church of England during the 1700s, but after Wesley’s death it split off into its own denomination. Through extensive missionary work, it spread across the British Empire, the United States, and other regions, now counting around 50 million followers globally. Most Methodist groups belong to the World Methodist Council. Wesleyan theology, developed by John Wesley and systematized by John William Fletcher, centers on sanctification and the Holy Spirit’s transformative effect on a believer’s character, aiming for a life victorious over sin. A key Wesleyan definition of sin is a “voluntary transgression of a known law of God.” Core doctrines include the new birth, imparted righteousness, and obedience shown through acts of piety. Wesley considered entire sanctification the “grand depositum” of Methodist faith, the reason God raised up the movement. Methodists believe the Holy Spirit’s witness assures believers of both the new birth and entire sanctification. Scripture is the primary authority, but tradition—including historic creeds—also matters. Wesleyan Methodists teach that Jesus died for all humanity, making salvation available to everyone—an Arminian view, contrasting with the Calvinist belief in predestination. However, Whitefield and some early leaders were Calvinistic Methodists, holding to the Reformed position. Worship styles vary widely, from high church to low church liturgies, as well as tent revivals and camp meetings. British Methodist denominations tend to be less ritualistic; American Methodist worship differs by denomination and congregation. Distinctive practices include quarterly lovefeasts, watchnight services on New Year’s Eve, and altar calls inviting people to experience new birth and entire sanctification. Services often allow for prayer requests, praise reports, and testimonies. The emphasis on growing in grace after the new birth led to class meetings for mutual encouragement. Methodism has a rich musical tradition, with Charles Wesley writing much of its hymnody. Beyond evangelism, Methodism is known for charity and support for the sick, poor, and afflicted through works of mercy that flow from love for God and neighbor. This Social Gospel is put into action via hospitals, orphanages, soup kitchens, and schools. Historically, Methodists emphasized nonconformity to the world, with standards like sobriety, a ban on gambling, regular class meeting attendance, and weekly Friday fasting. Early Methodists came from all social levels, including the aristocracy, but preachers also reached out to outcasts like criminals. In Britain, the movement significantly shaped the developing working class from 1760 to 1820. In the United States, it became the religion of many slaves, who later formed black Methodist churches. The revival started in England with John and Charles Wesley and others as a movement within the Church of England. At Oxford, the brothers founded the “Holy Club,” which met weekly to systematically pursue holy living—receiving Communion weekly, fasting regularly, avoiding amusement and luxury, and visiting the sick, poor, and prisoners. Fellow students called them “Methodist” for their rule-based, methodical approach to religion. In 1735, they went to North America as ministers and missionaries at the invitation of Georgia’s founder, James Oglethorpe, but returned to England feeling they lacked genuine faith. They then sought guidance from Moravians like Peter Boehler.