This unit is for people who want to study the theology of the Wesleys and spirituality of early Methodism, as a way of reflecting on the challenges of mission-shaped discipleship today. The teaching is designed for lay or ordained people of all traditions, and examines the relationships between spiritual growth, using spiritual disciplines, sharing small group fellowship and engaging in witness and service. John and Charles Wesley are approached as spiritual mentors who pass on the wisdom of ancient Christianity through the pathways of mystical, Puritan, Pietist and revival spirituality. The resulting Wesleyan vision of discipleship provides a lens through which to explore patterns of renewal and mission in the contemporary Church.
This unit, Wesleyan Theology and Spirituality: Influences and Contemporary Expressions (WTS2), covers a range of themes:
Streams of the Spiritual Life
- Patristics: the way of discipleship and deification
- Mystics: the way of intimacy and communion
- Pietists: the way of faith and grace
- Puritans: the way of devotion and discipline
- Revivalists: the way of proclamation and conversion
Contours of the Spiritual Life
- Journeying: salvation and discipleship
- Suffering: the sovereignty and mystery of God
- Stewarding: simple living and sacrificial giving
- Wrestling: spiritual struggle and depression
- Serving: the combination of prayer and work
Contexts of the Spiritual Life
- Societies: covenant service, love feasts, watchnights
- Groups/one to one: Christian fellowship, pastoral care, spiritual direction/mentoring, journaling
- Homes: family religion and the nurture of children
- World: science, spirituality and Primitive Physick
Disciplines of the Spiritual Life
- Prayer and fasting
- Spiritual reading
- Lord’s supper
- Mission
I came expecting an academic week. I didn’t expect it to be so engaging and spiritually refreshing. Thanks to everyone.
