United Methodist Beliefs: A Brief Introduction

by William H. Willimon

Overview

This brief introduction spells out the major beliefs of the United Methodist Church in a clear, nontechnical style. William Willimon, the beloved United Methodist author, preacher, teacher, and bishop, discusses the great theological themes that United Methodists share in common with all Christians as well as the particular accents and emphases that characterize United Methodist understandings of Christian doctrines. In his engaging style, Willimon opens the door for further study, challenging the reader to move toward a continuing reflection on their faith. This guide will be of great value to those who are beginning their study of United Methodist beliefs as well as those who have long been in the church and want a helpful way to refresh their understandings of the distinctiveness of United Methodist doctrine.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781611640618
Publisher:	Westminster John Knox Press
Publication date:	04/15/2007
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

William H. Willimon is the Presiding Bishop of the Birmingham Area of the North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church. Recognized as one of the most effective preachers in the English-speaking world, he is the author of several books, including United Methodist Beliefs: A Brief Introduction and The Early Preaching of Karl Barth, both published by WJK.

Table of Contents

Introduction and Warning     ix
We Believe in the Triune God     1
We Believe in Salvation through Jesus Christ     13
We Believe in the Holy Spirit     30
We Believe in Christ's Universal Church     43
We Believe in Practicing Theology     59
We Believe in Transforming and Perfecting Grace     72
We Believe in Faith and Good Works     90
We Believe in the Coming of God's Realm and Reign to the World     99
Thinking like Wesleyans     112
Notes     119
Further Reading     128
Index of Names     120
Index of Scriptural Citations     130

Editorial Reviews

Methodist bishop and noted preacher Willimon (Pastor, and, with Stanley Hauerwas, Resident Aliens), opens his lucid and thought-provoking overview of Methodist beliefs with the counterintuitive claim that Jesus actually wasn't principally concerned about beliefs. He wanted people to follow him, not necessarily assent to a set of "cool intellectual propositions" about him. Still, Methodists do have doctrines, which Willimon feels are worthy, God-given guideposts to following Jesus. Willimon first tackles the Trinity, underscoring that "a decisive change in the human heart can and does occur under the prompting of grace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit." He then moves on to Methodist beliefs about Jesus, salvation, grace and good works. Especially important is his chapter on the church, where, reprising themes that pervade his earlier writing, Willimon argues that although Americans desire to go the spiritual life alone, Methodism teaches that people become most fully conformed to Christ when they are part of the larger ecclesial body. Methodist church life, says Willimon, is a tad schizophrenic, appreciating order while also seeking "radical renewal." Written with Willimon's characteristic dry wit, this highly readable book brings to life doctrines that in other hands would seem dry and dusty. Willimon has produced the most insightful introduction to Methodism available today. (May)

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