Church History B (Chappell/Meek)

Question 1

Methodist Churches

Answer 1

Historical origins:
1. Protestant Christian tradition and revival movement within the Anglican church derived from the life and teachings of John Wesley (with significant leadership from Charles Wesley and George Whitefield).
2. The name “Methodist” stems from the “methodical” way in which they carried out their Christian faith.

Distinctives:
1. Wesleyan theology (Arminianism, new birth, assurance, imparted righteousness, works of piety/holiness), with an emphasis on sanctification and the transforming effect of faith on a Christian’s character (entire sanctification/Christian perfection)
2. Charity, support for the sick and poor, works of mercy, and the “social gospel”
3. Hymnody
4. Evangelism, tent revivals, camp meetings, and circuit riders