John Wesley's Unfinished Revolution

How does a rigid, rule-following Anglican priest become the founder of a movement that transforms the world? John Wesley's journey from spiritual perfectionist to grace-filled revolutionary offers a roadmap for those of us still figuring out our faith. Drawing from Wesley's own words about his heart being "strangely warmed" (Acts 16:14), we explore how personal transformation leads to social revolution. Wesley discovered that God's grace isn't earned through perfect behavior but experienced through open hearts—a revelation that freed him to challenge Calvinist predestination with the radical belief that God's love is truly for all people. This wasn't just theological hair-splitting; it was life-changing news that sparked the Methodist movement's commitment to both personal holiness and social justice. Wesley's famous "Catholic spirit" (2 Kings 10:15) teaches us that while we may not think alike, we must love alike—an openness that led him toward universalist hopes and created space for theological growth. Through Wesley's influence, we discover that faith isn't a destination but a journey of "going on to perfection"—not moral flawlessness but growing in love. As our Book of Discipline reminds us, our theological task is both critical and constructive, testing inherited beliefs against the fruits of love while building something new for our generation. Wesley's unfinished revolution continues in us as we learn that the best theology is always a work in progress, rooted in grace and oriented toward justice for all people. His legacy challenges us to keep our hearts warm, our minds open, and our hands busy with the work of love.