Character of a Methodist

In a small treatise “The Character of a Methodist,” published in 1742, John Wesley attempts to describe what he means by a disciple of Christ perfected in love. It is a striking portrait of noble simplicity, deeply rooted in Scripture, and dominated by the image of growth in grace and love. Wesley reflects a realistic attitude about the limitations of the human condition, but displays an even more profound optimism in what God’s grace can accomplish in the life of any child desiring to walk with greater integrity in the way of the gospel. In his many subsequent publications on the theme of Christian perfection, Wesley seldom deviates from the essential portrait of the mature Christian. Those perfected in Christ “love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength” and they love their neighbors as they love themselves.” This dual love, as Charles Wesley sings, “Sanctifies, and makes us whole;” it “forms the Savior in the soul.” -Wesley Study Bible (pg 1227)