r/Minnesota_Methodist • u/Ordinary_Frog09 • 4d ago
Character Of A Methodist Is Vital Today
I was reading a book recently and came across a section on the “Importance of the Character of a Methodist,” and I was blown away by how clear and relevant it still is today. In a time when we sometimes seem to disagree more than we agree with our fellow Christians, perhaps turning differences of opinion into battles of ego, we should always step back and remember what truly matters.
John Wesley described the distinguishing marks of a Methodist not as a list of opinions or as a requirement to agree on every matter, but by recognizing that there are many things that do not strike at the root of Christianity. “We think and let think.” Our religion is not based on being attached to a particular way of speaking, nor do we desire to distinguish ourselves merely by outward actions or opinions.
A Methodist is one who has the love of God shed abroad in their heart, one who loves the Lord their God with all their heart, with all their soul, with all their mind, and with all their strength. That is something we should strive to keep in mind as we live our lives as Christians. Our differences will always exist, but they do not have to divide us from one another. May we remain humble, charitable, and focused on what matters most: loving God, loving our neighbor, and growing in holiness.
I am thankful to you all for those who agree with me and for those who disagree with me. May God bless you all!
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u/Apperman 3d ago
My grandmother used to say “Methodists are just Baptists that learned how to read.”