Large Wesley Preaching
John Wesley's preaching in the open air rather than in church was one of the methods he used to reach people with the gospel message of Jesus Christ. (File photo)
Oboedire | June 10, 2026
The Wesleys knew that renewal is always a blend of theology and sociology. They took their cue from Jesus who said that wine (the Gospel) must be contained in and poured out through good wineskins (the containers).
In the previous post about Wesleyan renewal, we saw the formative documents regarding the message of Methodism. Today, we turn to the methods – the system through which the message was conveyed.
The primary thing to remember was that Methodism was a movement. The methods were established accordingly, and in relation to the action of grace in our lives.
Prevenient Grace: the grace which awakens us to God. Methodism focused on this in the Societies.
Converting Grace: the grace that justifies and regenerates us. Methodism focused on this in the Class Meetings.
Sanctifying Grace: the grace that matures us in holiness of heart and life. Methodism focused on this in the Bands.
In addition to these main components, Methodism also had Penitent Bands (to help discouraged and lapsed folks experience rejuvenation) and Select Societies (to provide focused guidance for those poised to grow in specific ways).
These expressions did not omit the Church. In fact, they were aimed to renew it, but to do so as an “ecclesiola en ecclesia” (little church in the big Church) – what today we think of in terms of parachurch ministries and the Fresh Expressions movement.
Moreover, the Wesleys did not allow Methodism to be a substitute Church, but rather salt and light within it. Methodist meetings were not held at times which conflicted with Church services. And Methodists who were members of various denominations were exhorted to be faithful in them.
Today, we have resources to help us make the wineskins that can hold and distribute the wine. The Discipleship Ministries agency envisions these dynamics and creates ministries to express them. Here is the link to see what they have to offer,
https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/
The Upper Room also resources new-wineskin ministry. Here is the link to the various resources they provide,
Finally, the Amplify Media ministry at the United Methodist Publishing House has a wealth of materials that advance renewal. Here is the link,
As we integrate the message (theology) and methods (sociology), we will be aligning with the early Methodist movement, not as a token from the past but rather as a trajectory for the future.
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.