Methodism 101: The Quadrilateral and the Means of Grace

The Wesleyan Quadrilateral - The current statement on Our Theological Task which appears in the 2016 Book of Discipline is an effective introduction to theology in the Wesleyan tradition. Here one can begin to explore the relationship among those factors contributing to a relevant theology for the 21st century. The groundwork is laid for a “dialogue” between science and theology as the Wesleyan Quadrilateral is presented in the Book of Discipline ¶ 104. Here, Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience are each identified as a vital part of the theological task.

The Means of Grace - Courageous and forward-leaning mission congregations practice spiritual disciplines. Our vital work is a spiritual adventure based in John Wesley's means of grace. John Wesley taught that God's grace is unearned and that we were not to be idle waiting to experience grace but we are to engage in the means of grace. The means of grace are ways God works invisibly in disciples, hastening, strengthening; and confirming faith so that God's grace pervades in and through disciples. As we look at the means of grace today, they can be divided into works of piety and the works of mercy.

Works of Piety

Individual Practices – reading, meditating and studying the scriptures, prayer, fasting, regularly attending worship, healthy living, and sharing our faith with others

Communal Practices – regularly share in the sacraments, Christian conferencing (accountability to one another), and Bible study

Works of Mercy

Individual Practices - doing good works, visiting the sick, visiting those in prison, feeding the hungry, and giving generously to the needs of others

Communal Practices – seeking justice, ending oppression and discrimination (for instance Wesley challenged Methodists to end slavery), and addressing the needs of the poor