Mere Methodism: Recapturing the Riches of Our Tradition

As I have traveled around the country speaking to different congregations, particularly in the Wesleyan world, I have noted a deep hunger for both the transforming power that marked early Methodism and the depth that gave it a sure foundation in the Gospel. So many have heard stories about early Methodism and the powerful witness that it gave to the world. They know about the Wesley brothers and their army of lay preachers and that they preached out of the riches of the Christian heritage, transforming lives as they spread a message of holiness of heart and life. But they want to know more. Today, Methodists of all strips are yearning for that transforming witness.

This desire is for both the experience of a vital Methodism and for knowledge of its theological riches. There’s a sense in which so many can see that the riches of the tradition are there, but they don’t know how to access it. They know that vital piety and knowledge go hand-in-hand within authentic Wesleyanism, but where does one start to understand it?

The Mere Methodism Conference: Recapturing the Riches of Our Heritage is the John Wesley Institute’s answer to this need and seeks to address these deep yearnings. The conference, which will be held in Alexandria, VA, April 4-6, brings together world-class scholars and church leaders from across the Wesleyan tradition to explore the riches of our heritage, diving into the insights and contributions of faithful followers of Jesus Christ who have gone before us, and pointing us forward to a faithful future.

The conference, while substantive, is for anyone who desires accessible engagement with the Christian faith from a Wesleyan perspective.

Beginning on Thursday evening, April 4th and concluding mid-day on Saturday, April 6th, we will hear from world-class scholars who will present on different subjects ranging from the sacraments in the Christian life, the Wesleyan approach to scripture, the impact of the English Christian tradition on John Wesley, the gifts that the Holiness Movement offers the future of Methodism, and so much more. We will worship together, partaking in Holy Communion. I’m excited to welcome Jessica LaGrone from Asbury Theology Seminary to be our opening preacher and Donovan Archie of Ebenezer UMC, Sterling, VA to preach for us on Friday night. 

Among the speakers, both those who will give presentations and those who will help lead us in worship, a variety of Wesleyan denominations are represented: Church of God, Cleveland, Global Methodist, Nazarene, United Methodist, and The Wesleyan Church. We have been very intentional to create a unifying event. Everyone is welcome at Mere Methodism.

Speakers giving presentations come from a number of different academic institutions. The first evening will include a presentation from David Watson of United Theological Seminary. Watson is a leading biblical scholar and editor of Firebrand Magazine. Other presenters include historians, theologians, ethicists, and biblical scholars: 

• Kenneth J. Collins, Asbury Theological Seminary
• Dale Coulter, Pentecostal Theological seminary
• Steven Hoskins, Trevecca Nazarene University
• Abson Joseph, Indiana Wesleyan University
• Joy J. Moore, Luther Seminary
• Jason Vickers, Baylor University

This is a time of formation, learning, fellowship, and renewal. And I hope that you’ll join me in Alexandria for this exciting event. We will be meeting in the historic Lyceum in the heart of Alexandria’s Old Town, just minutes from the National Mall, the monuments, and the Capitol.

Registration can be found at www.nextmethodism.org/mere-methodism And if you can’t join me in person, I invite you to register for online access. This is not to be missed!

Ryan N. Danker
Director, The John Wesley Institute