Methodism

Methodism is a movement within Christianity that began in the 18th century as a revival within the Church of England led by John Wesley and his brother Charles. Originating at Oxford and expanding through organized societies, class meetings, and itinerant preaching, Methodism emphasized personal faith, disciplined living, and active mission while remaining connected to Anglican roots. Over time it developed into distinct denominations in many countries.

Core beliefs center on a Wesleyan-Scriptural framework. Methodists affirm Arminian theology, emphasizing prevenient grace, justification by faith, and ongoing sanctification toward holiness. Many hold that Christians can grow in love for God and neighbor, a hope sometimes termed Christian perfection in this life. The Wesleyan Quadrilateral—a recurring jury of Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience—guides doctrine and practice. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are regarded as means of grace. Worship combines preaching, prayer, hymnody, and Scripture with a strong emphasis on personal conversion, social justice, and mission.

Practice and structure emphasize lay participation and organized ministry. Following the early model of class and band meetings, Methodists developed circuits and societies with itinerant ministers. Worship often features congregational singing, notably hymns by Charles Wesley, and renewed emphasis on Scripture study, prayer, and service. The movement has also fostered education, healthcare, and social outreach as fundamental expressions of faith.

History and global presence. In Britain, Methodism grew from an Anglican revival and, in 1932, formed the Methodist Church of Great Britain through the union of the Wesleyan Methodist Church, the Primitive Methodist Church, and the United Methodist Free Churches. In the United States, it evolved from the Methodist Episcopal Church to the Methodist Church (1939) and then the United Methodist Church (1968) after mergers. Worldwide Methodism now includes multiple denominations, with ongoing diversification and occasional realignments such as the emergence of new global Methodist bodies.