The Ecumenical Wesley

It is interesting to note how intensely John Wesley opposed the notion of a separate church. In “Character of a Methodist,” John Wesley describes what it is that makes one a true Methodist. He mentions such characteristics as praying constantly, thinking of God always, and trying to do what is best. These three specific traits are not unique to Methodists. In fact, none of the characteristics are. Towards the end, Wesley writes, “If any man say, ‘Why, these are only the common fundamental principles of Christianity!’ thou hast said; so I mean; this is the very truth; I know they are no other; and I would to God both thou and all men knew, that I, and all who follow my judgment, do vehemently refuse to be distinguished from other men, by any but the common principles of Christianity, -- the plain, old Christianity that I teach, renouncing and detesting all other marks of distinction.”

Judging by this statement, it is my opinion that Wesley, in our day and age, would strongly promote ecumenism. He wanted Methodists to be considered Christians. He did not want to separate from the Church of England. He also writes, “[F]rom real Christians, of whatsoever denomination they be, we earnestly desire not to be distinguished at all, not from any who sincerely follow after what they know they have not yet attained. No: ‘Whosoever doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.’ And I beseech you, brethren, by the mercies of God, that we be in no wise divided among ourselves. Is thy heart right, as my heart is with thine? I ask no farther question. If it be, give me thy hand. For opinions, or terms, let us not destroy the work of God. Dost thou love and serve God? It is enough. I give thee the right hand of fellowship.” For Wesley, it is enough that a person loves and wishes to serve God. As Methodists, if we take this to heart, shouldn’t ecumenism be something we strive after? It is so important that the Body of Christ be united. This is not to say that we should do away with all diversity between the denominations. After all, just as a body cannot be made up of all fingers or ribs, neither should the Body be made up of only Methodists, Baptists, or Catholics. Each denomination of Christianity brings something different to the Church as a whole. It is vital that we embrace these differences and learn how to work them together so that they do not work against one another. Perhaps if we embrace Wesley’s Methodism, we can get closer to being united.