John Wesley Servant of God · Father of Methodism

John Wesley was a 18th century follower of christ, who founded the Methodist movement and dedicated his life to preaching. He was born in Epworth, Lincolnshire, England on June 17, 1703 and died on 2 March 1791.

John Wesley was a “great” christian leader because didn’t just preach, he spread the word of god to all people, not just people who went to church. He preached outside churches reaching many others who didn’t attend churches which helped to grow the faith. He allegedly travelled 5000 miles per year and preached 12 times a week, this selfless act proves that he devoted most of his time to spreading christianity.

With this, he gave any money that was not necessary for his survival away to charity and the poor. Even though his pay kept rising, he still only took 28 pounds home and once donated 92 pounds which was most of his yearly pay. This proves that he is a great christian leader, since he dedicated his life to christianity and preached to whoever, and whenever he could.

John Wesley has contributed to the development of the church today in many ways. Such as being one of the main founders of methodism, which is a practice and belief millions still follow today. At the time churches were very formal, and many people didn’t attend. Instead of just preaching normally, he went out and preached informally, on the streets, to the working and lower classes and anywhere he could share the word of god. This helped to make christianity a religion that is widely available and you can pray and worship the way you most feel comfortable.

He also created small study and prayer groups to help others feel included and help develop their faith while holding others accountable, this has directly influenced prayer groups today. He has also encouraged a personal relationship with god, and a deeper connection with god, instead of just going to church. Which shows his efforts to deepen spiritual connection and growth with God. He also was the reason for the Wesleyan church, based on his beliefs and influence in the christian community.

John Wesley displays christian character in that he dedicated his life to christianity. He donated most of his money to the poor, and even when his yearly income doubled he still only lived off a set amount and donated most of his pay to help the poor. This act of selflessness and charity displays his christian character, along with that he worked among the needy, helping them and spreading the christian faith to people who may never go to church.

He led a group called the Holy Club, they preached wherever they could, helping the sick, educating the poor, and even went to prisons to help share christianity. Additionally, he spoke up against slavery and social injustices, these issues were prevalent at this time and it shows his understanding of correct morals and ethics.

Society respects and honours John Wesley in many ways, such as that he created the methodist church and movement which millions of people still follow today. Also, to commemorate John Wesley, there are multiple statues of him around the world. Another way that he is remembered is through the Wesleyan church which is based on his teaching and beliefs, they try to live in his footsteps and study his ideas.

Values that are taught by John Welsy that could be modelled to children today to encourage relationships with others and god include, caring for others. This is prevalent in John Wesley’s teachings since he preached to anyone, and didn’t discriminate based on looks. He often preached to people who were looked down upon, like prisoners, lower class people, slaves and anyone that would listen. He also encouraged helping people in need, since he donated most of his pay to help others, and support people in any way he could.

Other important values taught by John Wesley include accountability and community. This can be seen as in his Holy Club he held others accountable for their actions, and fostered a sense of community in the group. These ethics are vital for children of today to have, his teachings help to install good morals and allow for stronger and better relationships with others and God.