What Is Methodism?
We’ve covered what Christianity is and the transformative message it brings to our lives. If you haven’t read that yet, we encourage you to start there; it’s essential to understanding why Methodism came to be. Without this foundation, what you’re about to read may make little sense.
Seeing the Challenges in Other Denominations
John Wesley, a minister in the Church of England during the 18th century, saw both the beauty and the struggles within the Christian faith. As he traveled and ministered, he noticed that the Church was often disconnected from the people who needed it most. Wesley saw a church that had become comfortable, institutionalized, and in some ways, distant from the teachings of Jesus, who reached out to the poor, the marginalized, and those seen as “undesirable” by society.
Several issues in the established denominations of Wesley’s time deeply concerned him:
- Formalism Over Faith: Wesley observed that many churches emphasized rituals, traditions, and formalities but lacked personal, heartfelt faith. Religion had become a matter of outward appearances rather than inward transformation.
- Exclusivity and Social Barriers: Churches often divided people by class, education, and social status, making it difficult for ordinary people to feel truly welcomed. The poor, uneducated, or socially disadvantaged often felt left out of the Christian community.
- Lack of Practical Holiness: Wesley believed that Christianity should inspire a transformed life, both personally and socially. Yet, he found that many Christians were not living out their faith in meaningful ways that could positively impact society.
The Birth of Methodism
Seeing these challenges, Wesley didn’t initially set out to create a new denomination. Instead, he wanted to spark a movement that would revitalize the faith, bringing people back to the teachings of Christ in a practical, inclusive, and compassionate way. Over time, however, Wesley’s approach took on a life of its own, and what began as a renewal movement within the Anglican Church evolved into what we now know as Methodism.
Methodism was born out of a desire to rekindle a faith that was deeply connected to daily life, centered on God’s love, and accessible to everyone. It emphasized the “methodical” pursuit of faith — hence the name “Methodism” — encouraging believers to live their faith actively through both personal devotion and service to others.
How Methodism Addressed These Issues
Methodism took a new approach to the problems Wesley identified, focusing on personal and social holiness, inclusivity, and the transformation of everyday life.
- Faith with Heart and Action: Unlike the ritual-heavy practices Wesley saw in other denominations, Methodism emphasized a personal relationship with God that is expressed in both heart and action. Wesley established small groups where people could pray, read Scripture, and support one another. This model encouraged believers to grow spiritually in a community that fostered genuine, heartfelt faith.
- A Church for Everyone: Methodism intentionally broke down social barriers, inviting people from all backgrounds to participate fully in worship and community life. Wesley famously preached in fields, marketplaces, and town squares, bringing the gospel to those who felt unwelcome in traditional church settings. In Methodism, everyone — regardless of social status, education, or background — is seen as equally loved by God and welcome in His house.
- Practical Holiness and Social Action: Wesley believed that faith should not only change a person’s heart but also their actions. Methodism placed a strong emphasis on “personal and social holiness,” meaning that followers were encouraged to live out their faith by serving others and working for social justice. Wesley and the early Methodists were active in helping the poor, fighting against injustices like slavery, and promoting education. This focus on social action became a defining feature of Methodism, which continues to be a movement committed to both spiritual growth and social transformation.
Methodism, then, is not simply a set of beliefs but a way of living out the teachings of Christ with purpose, passion, and inclusivity. It’s a faith that calls us to love deeply, serve humbly, and build a community where everyone is valued. By addressing the challenges that John Wesley saw in his time, Methodism offers a faith that remains vibrant, welcoming, and transformative today.