Author Description
An important new study of the life and ministry of the Anglican minister and Evangelical leader Charles Wesley (1707-88) which examines the often-neglected contribution made by John Wesley's younger brother to the early history of the Methodist movement. Charles Wesley's importance as the author of classic hymns like `Love Divine' and `O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing' is well known, but his wider contribution to Methodism, the Church of England and the Evangelical Revival has been overlooked. Gareth Lloyd presents a new appraisal of Charles Wesley based on his own papers and those of his friends and enemies. The picture of the Revival that results from a fresh examination of one of Methodism's most significant leaders offers a new perspective on the formative years of a denomination that today has an estimated 80 million members worldwide.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This study investigates the often-overlooked role of Charles Wesley in the formation of the Methodist movement and his complex relationship with the Church of England. Gareth Lloyd, a scholar of Methodist history, utilizes primary source documents, including personal papers and correspondence from Wesley’s contemporaries, to challenge the traditional narrative that centers almost exclusively on John Wesley. The book argues that Charles Wesley’s influence as an Evangelical leader and theologian was foundational to the movement's early identity and survival.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- A detailed examination of Charles Wesley's ministry and theological contributions.
- Analysis of the internal tensions within the early Methodist movement.
- Primary source research derived from the personal papers of Charles Wesley and his associates.
Scope Limits
- The text does not provide a comprehensive biography of John Wesley, focusing instead on his brother.
- The analysis is limited to the 18th-century formative years of Methodism rather than its modern global expansion.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Scholars and historians recognize this work as a significant corrective to the John-centric historiography of early Methodism. Readers frequently note the academic rigor and the depth of archival research presented throughout the text.
Page Count:
280
Publication Date:
2007-01-01
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0191537799
ISBN-13:
9780191537790
Biography
Religion
History
Methodist Church
Christianity
18th century
Methodism
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