Twice a year we experience an example of near-perfect balance between day and night, as the sun travels directly along the equator. This year the Autumn Equinox will be on September 22nd.
The Equinox is balance and harmony in action, and we get to be a part of it. This balance, however, is not static. It is part of a larger rhythm that creates seasons, with opposite seasons in the northern and southern hemispheres that then switch, meeting in the middle once again. With the Solstice, in December and June, we find that nature does not fall into extremes. The sun starts its ascent again, making its way back to the center. Balance and harmony are found in the whole movement.
This beautiful and balanced rhythm in nature provides a rich metaphor for our Wesleyan understanding of temperance and what has been called “conjunctive theology”, a theology that seeks more than compromise but instead seeks the fullness of understanding by holding together realities that others often separate. In seeking the fullness of God’s grace, we tend to see things through the lens of “both/and” rather than “either/or.”
The word “temperance” is illustrative. This is the word Wesley (and others) used to translate the last virtue listed among the Fruits of the Spirit found in Galatians 5. By using this word, we see that this fruit of the Spirit is so much more than “self-control,” as it is often translated. This virtue involves more than restraint. It is also more than moderation. While it is popular to use the word “moderation” among Methodists, Wesley used this word sparingly and usually connected to the word “patience.” Temperance is definitely more than abstinence, particularly from alcohol. This is the way it has come to be used in many circles. In its original meaning, temperance points to something much more.
Temperance seeks balance and harmony, within and with others. Temperance is about governing our desires rather than being governed by them. It is about using God’s gifts without abusing them. It is about pursuing knowledge without arrogance. It gives witness to zeal without fanaticism. Temperance enjoys the blessings of incarnate creation without becoming enslaved to pleasure. We are called to live into a life-giving rhythm, a rhythm beautifully illustrated by the movement of the earth around the sun.
Knowing that there are different dynamics in terms of weather conditions and needs on either side of the equator might serve to help us appreciate the truth that there is always more than one perspective. The cause of love is served when we seek to honor this larger reality. We are not here to agree about everything or to insist on our own way; our calling is to love. From a Wesleyan perceptive we are able to best fulfill this calling by practicing faith through the lens of a conjunctive theology.
Through this theological lens, we value the energy that comes through both personal AND social holiness. We share a commitment to both orthodox doctrine AND the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. We seek knowledge AND vital piety, for another example. (See other posts in this series, and we will continue with this theme throughout). The virtue of temperance helps us to walk along this middle way.
Wesley often ended his sermons with questions designed for self-examination, which is an act of temperance. We regulate through personal and disciplined reflection. Temperance comes from within and is discovered by looking in the proverbial mirror. Self-examination is an essential part of methodist discipline.
Perhaps the Equinox can serve as a moment for us to ask some important reflective questions: When has passion displaced wisdom? When has comfort replaced compassion? When has work pulled up away from worship? When have we become so enamored with our own opinions that we have forgotten to love? When have we given into extremes and been unable or unwilling to practice holy love with patience and kindness and a humility that does not insist on its own way?
Such “methodist” questions can help lead us into the last fruit of the spirit, as listed by the Apostle Paul. And in the spirit of harmony and wholeness this practice of temperance can help us cultivate the other fruits as well. The practice of temperance brings joy and peace; it manifests goodness and faithfulness; it softens the edges with respectful gentleness.
Like the Equinox, it is a sight to behold! The practice of this virtue gives witness to the ways of holiness, to the ways of God.
Next Up: The Cross and Flame Logo and Icon
I first heard the term “conjunctive theology” from Wesleyan Scholar Paul Chilcote, in a presentation and then in his writings. This concept helps us to live as a part of the whole gospel. Faith is distorted when we emphasize doctrine without discipleship, holiness without compassion, experience without accountability, to name a few.
For more on the importance of “Self-Examination” see “Wanting More: Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany Inspired by the Teachings of John Wesley,” particularly the chapters of Wesley’s sermons – The Almost Christian and Scriptural Christianity, published by Market Square Books, 2024. Also see “Heart to Holiness: The Practices of Faith Inspired by the Sermons of John Wesley,” particularly the chapter on Wesley’s sermon – Wandering Thoughts, 2026.
Michael Roberts
Michael Roberts has served as a pastor, a director of conference ministries, a delegate to General Conference, a retreat leader, and a teacher of United Methodist history and doctrine. He is married with three grown children and two grandchildren. He likes to take time each day to write and play guitar as a part of his devotional life. He is the author of four books based on John Wesley sermons which can be found at marketsquarebooks.com.