John Wesley: A Theological Journey

Rating:
Summary: A must read for anyone interested in Wesley!
Review: "John Wesley: A Theological Journey" is an excellent introduction into the theology of the founder of Methodism. What I most enjoyed about this book is how the author shows the changes in and development of Wesley's beliefs. This alone helps explain why different denominations claim Wesley as their theological inspiration while having strong disagreements from one another.

Collins helps us gain insight into the fact that John Wesley (who was 88 when he died) was always growing and developing his thought. There are times when some of the theological issues that Wesley struggled with may not seem as relevant today (the difference between dispositions and attitudes is just one example). However, what is intriguing is to see first hand through his letters and sermons how Wesley developed.

Collins is also careful to show where some modern interpretations of Wesley either ignore later changes in his thinking or take his views out of context. A good example of this is Wesley's insistence that the Christian life needs to be inward and not solitary. Collins claims some have misquoted Wesley and said that for Wesley the Christian life "was principally, if not exclusively, concerned with public religion and the social order."

Because this book is so well documented, it makes checking the original sources easy! Therefore, the reader can find out for herself/himself the accuracy of each quote. This actually inspired me to read a number of Wesley's sermons so I could determine for myself what Wesley was saying.

This is a must read for anyone wishing to understand who John Wesley was and how his theology developed over his lifetime!

Rating:
Summary: The evolution of John Wesley's theology
Review: From John Wesley's ancestors, the English political and theological climate, the books Wesley read, and the people Wesley met, we learn how his theology developed. This book reveals the "fire and brimstone" Wesley in his youth turning into the pastorally sensitive older Wesley. The effects of the Anglican Church, German Pietists, Catholicism, and Puritanism all leave their clear mark on this pious and evangelical man.

The concept of the little church within the church is as worthy of consideration today as it was in the 18th century. Christian accountability is needed today. Wesley knew how to make Christian disciples. Today's efforts at forming classes, pale in comparison.

Wesley left us with a fairly detailed, insightful and personal account of his life. Wesley's plain account of Biblical text resulted in his "ordo salutis" which becomes difficult to deny. Collin's book reviews and analyzes Wesley's accounts within their historical perspective. We see Wesley with his warts and his insights.

This book is inspiring in it's historical account of Wesley's evolving theology. Read it and stand on the shoulder's of a giant in the faith.

Rating:
Summary: The evolution of John Wesley's theology
Review: From John Wesley's ancestors, the English political and theological climate, the books Wesley read, and the people Wesley met, we learn how his theology developed. This book reveals the "fire and brimstone" Wesley in his youth turning into the pastorally sensitive older Wesley. The effects of the Anglican Church, German Pietists, Catholicism, and Puritanism all leave their clear mark on this pious and evangelical man.

The concept of the little church within the church is as worthy of consideration today as it was in the 18th century. Christian accountability is needed today. Wesley knew how to make Christian disciples. Today's efforts at forming classes, pale in comparison.

Wesley left us with a fairly detailed, insightful and personal account of his life. Wesley's plain account of Biblical text resulted in his "ordo salutis" which becomes difficult to deny. Collin's book reviews and analyzes Wesley's accounts within their historical perspective. We see Wesley with his warts and his insights.

This book is inspiring in it's historical account of Wesley's evolving theology. Read it and stand on the shoulder's of a giant in the faith.

Rating:
Summary: A must read for anyone interested in Wesley!
Review: John Wesley: A Theological Journey was delightful to read. It is reader friendly and yet very thorough. Both the life and thought of Wesley are explored with great depth and yet with remarkable ease, all of which is attractive for all kinds of readers. I appreciated the straightforward comments made in light of an honest regard for the successes and failures in the life of John Wesley. The development of the theme of holy love is artfully composed and well documented. I highly recommend this book to those wishing to grow in their understanding of the founder of Methodism or who are seeking an engaging invitation to a vibrant and enduring theology.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent new book has depth and readability!
Review: John Wesley: A Theological Journey was delightful to read. It is reader friendly and yet very thorough. Both the life and thought of Wesley are explored with great depth and yet with remarkable ease, all of which is attractive for all kinds of readers. I appreciated the straightforward comments made in light of an honest regard for the successes and failures in the life of John Wesley. The development of the theme of holy love is artfully composed and well documented. I highly recommend this book to those wishing to grow in their understanding of the founder of Methodism or who are seeking an engaging invitation to a vibrant and enduring theology.