Welcome to Emphasizing Christian Formation. This course examines how Methodism’s deep-rooted attention to Christian formation can nurture both gifts and character in our communities. We’ll see how Methodist formation hinges upon the Methodist doctrine of holiness. We’ll consider how innovations in the complementary practices of preaching and fellowship were directed to holiness and fueled the growth of Methodism in 18th-century England. We will also consider how education contributes to our growth as disciples of Christ. Drawing on these lessons allows us to rethink the practices of our own communities. Finally, we will learn that the Methodist way of Christian formation finds its fullest expression in prayer.
Emphasizing Christian Formation
Beginner level
Recommended experience
5 hours to complete
3 weeks at 1 hour a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
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Recently updated!
June 2024
Assessments
5 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 4 modules in this course
“Christian perfection” is the goal of our formation in Christ, but this doctrine has long been neglected or misunderstood. Far from being an obscure museum piece, the Methodist doctrine of holiness invites us to nurture the character of Christ and cultivate the gifts of the Spirit. To renew the heart of Methodism, we must tend the flame of holiness.
What's included
1 video9 readings2 assignments2 discussion prompts
If the goal of our formation is Christian perfection, how do we pursue it? This week, we’ll take a closer look at the structures and practices the early Methodist movement developed to nurture both character and gifts. Seeing how preaching and fellowship complemented one another as the movement spread opens a path for evaluating the pathways to Christian formation in our own communities.
What's included
1 video3 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
John Wesley and Methodists through the centuries have maintained that education plays an important role in Christian formation. Indeed, Methodists have founded institutions of higher learning around the world. This week, we’ll explore how education can still help Methodists spread scriptural holiness across the land.
What's included
1 video3 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Methodist prayer is intimately connected with Wesley’s emphasis on scriptural holiness. Wesley understood prayer not only as a means of grace that helps us grow toward perfection, but also as a form of being in perfection. This week, we will discover how the Wesleyan way of prayer touches the very heart of Methodism.
What's included
1 video5 readings1 assignment2 discussion prompts
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