John & Charles Wesley

Paul W. Chilcote is professor of historical theology and Wesleyan studies and director of the Center for Applied Wesleyan Studies at Ashland Theological Seminary. He, also, serves as president of The Charles Wesley Society, an international organisation devoted to the preservation and dissemination of the prose and poetic writings of the Anglican priest and highly acclaimed hymn writer.

"A welcome and accessible volume for scholars and practitioners of the Wesleyan traditions.... Ably provides a resource that integrates and contextualizes both brothers' work in founding Methodism."—Elaine A. Heath, president, Wesleyan Theological Society"A much needed contribution to the church.... Brings new life to the works of John and Charles Wesley. Will be a much used resource for pastors and laity for years to come."—Steven W. Manskar, director of Wesleyan leadership, General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church“The Christian world in general and the Wesleyan world in particular have needed a book like this.... Will be a means of grace for all who read it.”—Dr. Steve Harper, professor of spiritual formation and Wesley studies, Asbury Theological Seminary“Broad … illuminating … helpful … gives a textured, dimensional portrayal of this vibrant pair…. A wonderful volume for newcomers and experienced readers alike.”—Lester Ruth, research professor of Christian worship, Duke Divinity School“Provides unique and valuable insight into the essentials of the Methodism. This wonderful resource inspires greater faithfulness in witness, discipleship and service in the Wesleyan spirit.”—Dr. Ulrike Schuler, professor of church history, Methodism and ecumenism, Reutlingen School of Theology“A spiritual treasure! Here we find the richness and depth of [the Wesleys'] spirituality, and through their words experience the reality of God’s love in Jesus Christ.”—Henry H. Knight III, Donald and Pearl Wright Professor of Wesleyan Studies, Saint Paul School of Theology

• PrefaceIntroductionA Brief Overview of the Wesleys' LivesThe Wesleys' Literary OutputSalient Themes in Wesleyan Theology and SpiritualityThe Wesleyan LegacyPART ONEAutobiographical Portraits: A Preacher of Grace and a Poet of LoveJohn WesleyCharles WesleyPART TWOThe Triune God of Grace and LoveThe True GodTrinityCreatorParent of All GoodFree Grace for AllUniversal RedemptionIncarnate LoveThe Work of ChristThe Work of the SpiritPure, Unbounded LovePART THREEThe Way of SalvationA Dynamic Relational ProcessRepentanceFaithHolinessPART FOURA Community of GraceThe Character of CommunityA Holistic SpiritualityThe Means of GraceA Eucharistic VisionPART FIVEA Compassionate MissionThe Church’s CallingAn All-Consuming SacrificeJoyful Service to OthersThe Golden RuleSolidarity with the PoorCompassionate ActionChallenging InjusticeWaging PeaceGenuine ChristianityBoundless CharityEpilogueAbbreviationsSuggestions for Further StudyIndex of Texts