Methodist History

An expansive, substantive history of the Wesleyan tradition in the United States, Doctrine, Spirit, and Discipline offers a broad survey of the Methodist movement as it developed and spread throughout America, from the colonial era to the present day. It also provides an theological appraisal of these developments in light of John Wesley's foundational vision. Beginning with Wesley himself, Watson describes the distinctiveness of the tradition at the outset.

“An excellent small group study.” – Rev. Travis Knoll In a time of upheaval in the largest denomination of the Methodist movement, this classic explanation and defense of Methodist Christianity by its founder is required reading. Pastor David Wentz has updated Wesley’s 18th-century language, deleted references to no-longer-relevant theological disputes, and added an introduction that sets the work in context. The result is a clear, easy to read text that is enjoyable and understandable for modern readers of all levels of theological interest and expertise. This short book is ideal ...

Is being good the way to heaven? Being religious? Jesus said, “You must be born again.” John Wesley, spiritual forefather of Methodist, Pentecostal, and Holiness churches and the Salvation Army, explains Jesus’ words in this brief classic. One of the standard sermons Wesley required his circuit riders to learn and re-preach, The New Birth shows that religion and morality are good but new life in Jesus is vital. Wesley pulls no punches. But his 18th-century English is hard for most modern readers. As with his best-selling John Wesley’s The Character of a Methodist, David Wentz has ...

"This book thrilled my soul and reinvigorated my hope." — Amazon reviewer “Christians aren’t perfect, just forgiven.” John Wesley doesn’t agree. In this classic sermon, the father of Methodism and grandfather of the Salvation Army and the Pentecostal movement shows that using a proper Biblical definition, Christians not only can become perfect in this life — God commands us to! Seeking perfection was an integral part of the explosive growth of Methodism for 100 years, even as it led to the persecution of those who practiced it. As many of the denominations descended from Wesley ...

In America's Religious History, leading historian Thomas S. Kidd traces the theological and ethnic diversity and enduring strength of American religion, with special attention to Christianity and evangelical faith. Interweaving religious history and key events from the larger narrative of American history, the audiobook considers how faith commitments and categories have shaped the nation.

There’s more to salvation than punching your ticket for heaven. John Wesley taught that full salvation means becoming completely holy in heart and life. This focus on personal holiness was one of the defining characteristics of the Wesleyan revival. The many Methodist and Wesleyan denominations, the Pentecostal and holiness movements, and the Salvation Army all trace their lineage back to these teachings. Wesley’s followers believed what he taught fiercely, lived it out faithfully, and witnessed to it boldly, to the point that they were often violently persecuted. Today, millions of ...

Discover the Church That Changed History Dive into the extraordinary story of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church—a cornerstone of faith, freedom, and social justice. This beginner’s guide is your key to understanding a denomination that shaped history, empowered communities, and inspired generations. Experience a Remarkable Journey: Follow the AME Zion Church from its humble beginnings to its pivotal role in abolition, civil rights, and education. Learn how faith and resilience transformed a people and a nation. Uncover the Heroes of the Freedom Church: Meet the towering ...

It's uncertain that Howard Thurman made the remark often attributed to him, "I have been writing this book all my life," but there is little doubt that he was deeply immersed in reflection on the times that bear an uncanny resemblance to the present day, which give voice to the Black Lives Matter movement.

The “catholic spirit” has held us together through many divisive issues. “Through many dangers, toils, and snares, we have already come.” In this current context, it seems appropriate to renew laity and clergy acquaintance with “the way it was,” as we seek our “way forward.” Our hope is to fulfill Mr. Wesley’s admonition that “though we may not think alike, we can love alike.” This is not an attempt to “white-wash” the many splendored story, nor to deny the vision, energy, and spirituality of our leaders and “foot soldiers.” This version of The Methodist Story ...

In The Black Man: Father of Civilization Proven by Biblical History, the American pastor James Morris Webb (1878-1940) of the African Methodist Episcopal Church uses the Bible as evidence that African, dark-skinned, or colored people were the progenitors of all civilizations on Earth. Following the bloodline of Adam and Eve, to Ham, David, Solomon, and Jesus, Webb provides a stirring basis that some of the Bible’s main characters were, in fact, people of color.

This important audiobook contains eight articles by Korean Christian clergy and scholars who have experienced the vibrancy of Korean Christianity in Australia and New Zealand. Many of these scholars have been participants in the history-making process. This audiobook, therefore, is an indispensable resource for scholars, pastors, laypeople, and the interested public who want to understand the experience of Korean Christians better.

This book gives great insight into the mind and thoughts of the early CME Church Bishops. These men lead the church between reconstruction and WWII, serving as a backbone to the working of the Church body. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible.