Description:
(English Clergyman, Theologian, Evangelist and Co-Founder of the Methodist Movement in the Church of England)
John Wesley, best remembered as the Father of the Methodist movement, was born in England to an Anglican clergyman and his devout wife. Educated at Christ Church, Oxford, Wesley was ordained first as a deacon and then as a priest of the Anglican Church. Later he went to the United States to become the minister of the newly formed Savannah parish; but the venture was highly unsuccessful and he returned home beaten and depressed. He began to see the light when by chance he discovered the Lutheran doctrine of salvation by faith alone. Eventually, he started the Methodist Movement, which became a huge establishment within his lifetime. Although he never severed his ties with the Church of England, Methodist Church gradually became a separate denomination. Today, there are around 80 million Methodists across the earth. The United Methodist Church, the Methodist Church of Great Britain, the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Wesleyan Church are some of the largest bodies which follow Wesleyan theology. Apart from these, the Holiness movement and Pentecostalism also owe their origins to him.
Birthday
June 28, 0 (Cancer)
Born In
England
Died on
March 2, 1791
Spouse/Ex-
Mary Vazeille
Parents
Samuel Wesley
Susanna
Relatives
Charles
What was John Wesley's role in the Methodist movement?
John Wesley was a key figure in the founding and development of the Methodist movement, which aimed to reform the Church of England and promote a more personal and experiential form of Christianity.
What were some of John Wesley's key theological beliefs?
Some of John Wesley's key theological beliefs included the concepts of prevenient grace, justification by faith, and the possibility of Christian perfection or holiness in this life.
How did John Wesley contribute to social justice efforts?
John Wesley was a strong advocate for social justice, speaking out against slavery, poverty, and injustice. He believed in the importance of caring for the poor and marginalized in society.
What was the significance of John Wesley's Methodist societies?
John Wesley established Methodist societies as a way for individuals to come together for spiritual growth, accountability, and mutual support. These societies played a key role in the growth of the Methodist movement.
How did John Wesley's itinerant preaching style impact the spread of Methodism?
John Wesley's itinerant preaching style, where he traveled extensively to preach in various locations, was instrumental in spreading Methodism across England and eventually to other parts of the world.
