John Wesley: Loving One Another

John Wesley (1703-1791), English theologian and evangelist, was a founder of Methodism. This week's reading, which begins on page 258 of Devotional Classics, comes from his work, Christian Perfection. Editor Richard Foster says, "Wesley gives practical advice to those who want to move toward perfection, which for Wesley did not mean a state of sinlessness, but a desire to be fully in love with God with one's whole heart, soul, mind, and strength."

As you reflect on this passage, I invite you to click below this reading where it says "comments" and share what you are thinking. You may sign in as "anonymous" if that is simplest, or use your name or nickname. Respond to a question or two offered here, or make any comment you wish. Join the conversation!

• As you read Wesley's words, what counsel of his seems especially relevant to the American Christian church today? to your own congregation? to your own life?

• What does John Wesley mean by the word "enthusiasm"? Is that a danger for us in 2008?

• Have you ever experienced "schism"? How do you think Wesley would tell you to address that situation?

• How is the passage from Corinthians 13 relevant to this reading from John Wesley?

From Richard Foster: "I am always impressed with the balance in Wesley's counsel. He encourages zeal and warns of its excesses. He advocates disciplines of the spiritual life and cautions against legalism....Wesley tells us to beware of wanting God to do things for us that he has ordained we should do for ourselves. Sometimes people hanker after direct relevations about issues that can be fully resolved by an honest study of Scripture. At other times people expect to progress and mature in holiness by 'spiritual highs' when God's ordained means involve regular disciplines of prayer, fasting and solitude. God, you see, wants us to be 'co-laborers' with him as we discover this gracious life of 'righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit'. "

• Your response to Foster's comment?

More from John Wesley
To explore John Wesley's Explanatory Notes on the Bible, click here.
To read John Wesley's Journal, click here.

next week: Elizabeth O'Connor on Dealing with Money (pg. 251)
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