TOPIC: History and Faith
SUBJECT: History
TYPE: Critical Thinking / Review
DESCRIPTION:
Please go to: http://methodistthinker.com/2011/01/03/word-from-wesley-salvation-by-faith/ and read the summary of Wesley’s sermon, “Salvation by Faith”. Then answer the following questions: Answer the following two questions in at least two paragraphs and 200 words minimum After reading the introduction here and the summary of the sermon, what do you see as the main points that John Wesley was making on the difference between working for and believing in salvation? Also please read the following website https://www.christianhistoryinstitute.org/magazine/article/john-wesley-did-you-know/ and summarize what you see here (or other places where you might research) the main impact of John Wesley on the religious movement at that time.
In his sermon “Salvation by Faith,” John Wesley emphasizes that salvation is not earned through good works or following religious laws and customs, but rather through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Wesley argues that no amount of good works can earn salvation because we are all inherently sinful and incapable of earning our way into heaven. Rather, salvation is a free gift from God that can only be received through faith in Jesus Christ as our savior. This faith is not just an intellectual assent to certain beliefs, but a deep trust in God and a willingness to surrender our lives to him.
Wesley also warns against the dangers of relying too heavily on religious rituals and practices, such as baptism or communion, as a means of earning salvation. These practices are important, but they are only effective when accompanied by true faith in Jesus Christ.
Overall, Wesley’s sermon emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with God and a true faith in Jesus Christ as the key to salvation, rather than relying on good works or religious rituals.
As for John Wesley’s impact on the religious movement of his time, he played a significant role in the development of the Methodist movement, which sought to reform the Church of England and bring about spiritual renewal. Wesley’s emphasis on personal piety, evangelism, and social justice resonated with many people and helped to fuel the growth of the movement. His preaching and writing were influential in shaping the theology and practices of Methodism and helped to spread the movement throughout England and eventually to other parts of the world. Wesley’s legacy continues to be felt today, as Methodism remains a significant Christian denomination with millions of followers around the world.
