What I am about to suggest would not go over too well with the people who approve candidates for ministry and there are many colleagues who would have a serious problem were they to know I thought it. I don't think John Wesley was much of a theologian. He seems to be to have been a mediocre thinker whose confusion theologically has led to a denomination that continues to be confused theologically.
In the sermon this coming Sunday I intend to expose some of the weaknesses and strengths in some of his basic ideas surrounding the concept of grace.
His position was clear when it came to grace. He believed we are given the grace of God by virtue of the fact that we are on this earth. He believed that we are given the option of justifying grace when we make a mistake or sin. He believed that we can evolve into sanctifying grace as we have the possibility of moving forward in love.
He has trouble with the Deist who believe God is not involved in the world and he disagreed with Calvinists who held the position that some people were the elect and all others were not.
John Wesley is the founder of our denomination who had no intent on founding a denomination; he simply wanted to reform the Church of England.
Sunday I am going to have us take a critical look at the founder of our denomination to see what we can release and what we can reclaim.
What do you think about John Wesley as a theologian? If you have thoughts on this subject write me at charlesschuster@fcfumc.net. If you are willing to have others read your thoughts click on the "comments" box below.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Charles Schuster
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