Methodism
A Protestant revival movement emphasizing methodical faith and sanctification.
Methodism, also called the Methodist movement, is a Protestant Christian tradition whose origins, doctrines, and practice derive from the life and teachings of John Wesley. It originated as a revival movement within the Church of England in the 18th century, later diverging from Anglicanism to become a separate denomination after Wesley's death. The movement spread throughout the British Empire, the United States, and beyond through vigorous missionary work, and today has about 50 million adherents worldwide.
- founded
- 18th century
- founder
- John Wesley
- other_early_leaders
- George Whitefield, Charles Wesley
- field
- Protestant Christian tradition
- headquarters
- World Methodist Council (umbrella body)
- known_for
- Methodical Christian practice, Wesleyan theology, emphasis on sanctification and social outreach
Lore & Background
The Methodist revival began in England with John Wesley, his brother Charles Wesley, and George Whitefield as a movement within the Church of England. The Wesley brothers founded the 'Holy Club' at the University of Oxford, where they systematically lived a holy life, earning the nickname 'Methodist' for their methodical approach. Whitefield, known for open-air preaching, joined the Wesleys in a national crusade, reaching crowds of thousands. Wesley remained a cleric of the Church of England, insisting Methodists attend both parish churches and Methodist meetings, but he appointed lay preachers to evangelize those neglected by the established church.
Reader's Guide
Methodism's significance lies in its distinctive Wesleyan theology, formulated by John Wesley and codified by John William Fletcher, which focuses on sanctification and the transforming effect of the Holy Spirit. Unique to Wesleyan Methodism is its definition of sin as a 'voluntary transgression of a known law of God,' and its distinguishing doctrines include the new birth, imparted righteousness, and entire sanctification—the 'grand depositum' of the Methodist faith. Methodists hold to the Arminian doctrine that salvation is achievable for all, in contrast to the Calvinist position of predestination held by Whitefield and other early Calvinistic Methodists. The movement is known for its charity, support for the sick, poor, and afflicted through works of mercy, and its rich musical tradition, with Charles Wesley writing much of its hymnody. Methodism also established hospitals, orphanages, soup kitchens, and schools, and its worship includes lovefeasts, watchnight services, and altar calls. Early Methodists drew from all levels of society, including the aristocracy, and took the message to social outcasts such as criminals, significantly affecting the developing working class in Britain and becoming the religion of many slaves in the United States.
Did You Know?
- Methodists were named for 'the methodical way in which they carried out their Christian faith.'
- George Whitefield was a Calvinistic Methodist, holding to the Reformed position of predestination.
- Methodism has about 50 million adherents worldwide, with most denominations members of the World Methodist Council.
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