This lesson introduces us to the distinctive beliefs of those who follow the teachings of John Wesley. It briefly introduces us to the man himself, and to the Methodist movement that he started. We will also consider a Wesleyan understanding of “Optimistic Grace”. Finally, this grace transforms our lives: we do good works because God works in us! And to this end, we are transformed and our society is transformed.
This lesson aims to equip you to:
- Recognize the four distinctives of a Wesleyan Christian: a warm heart, a firm grip, an open mind, and nimble feet.
- Understand Wesley’s purpose: to make disciples who make disciples.
- Understand Wesley’s view of grace: how it delivers us from our sin problem.
- To recognize that Wesleyans believe that personal reformation leads to social reformation.