Photo Courtesy of Morgan Guyton
John Wesley Writing
John Wesley fashioned the Methodist movement along the lines of "third order" movements such as the Franciscans. (File Photo)
Oboedire | June 4, 2026
The early-Methodist movement was designed along the lines of third-order movements (e.g. the Franciscans) aimed missionally to renew the church and reform the nation. The foundational documents of these orders included a Constitution, Rule of Life, Covenant Renewal, Spiritual Practices–all infused by a theology of grace.
In early Methodism, these components were advanced in these ways,
Constitution: The Character of a Methodist
Rule of Life: The General Rules
Covenant Renewal: Covenant Renewal Service
Spiritual Practices: Means of Grace
Theology of Grace: The Order of Salvation
When Abingdon Press republished these with application to the church today, they brought together for the first time in upwards of 200 years the main renewal resources for the movement. Here they are as they correspond to contemporary third-order communities,
Constitution: Five Marks of a Methodist by Steve Harper
Rule of Life: Three Simple Rules by Rueben Job
Covenant Renewal: One Faithful Promise by Magrey deVega
Spiritual Practices: Five Means of Grace by Elaine Heath
Theology of Grace: Unrelenting Grace by Kenneth Carter, Jr
These resources root us in the fertile soil that gave rise to Methodism, and we can use them to bear good Gospel fruit in our lives and congregations today.
The United Methodist Publishing House is suggesting Five Marks of a Methodist as the starting point, which is reflective of the Wesleys’ conviction that renewal begins in the heart through the formation of character. The UMPH has developed a formation experience for individuals, groups, and congregations. To learn more and participate, here is the link…
https://amplifymedia.com/five-marks-of-a-methodist/
The other resources are easily available on the Amplify Media website: ammplifymedia.com
By using them, we have the opportunity to draw on the wisdom of the past as we move into the future, doing so in the spirit that Charles Wesley penned, “to serve the present age; my calling to fulfill. O, may it all my powers engage to do my Master’s will.”
Steve Harper 2024
Courtesy Photo
The Rev. Dr. Steve Harper is retired seminary professor who taught for 32 years in the disciplines of Spiritual Formation and Wesley Studies. Author and co-author of more than fifty books.. He is also a retired elder in The Florida Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church.