The Character of a Christian can be discussed based on John Wesley’s description of The Character of a Methodist. The grounding point from which Wesley was coming is that being a Methodist (Christian) should result into distinguishing ourselves “from the unbelieving world, from all those whose minds or lives are not according to the Gospel of Christ.” Of course, during his days, the lifestyle of most Christians (in England) did not reflect that they were believers and disciples of Jesus Christ. Is it not like what we see today in our society?

First, what we should keep in mind is that John Wesley did not come up with any plan about Methodism or the people who would be called Methodists. He developed a strategy on how to provide pastoral leadership and care by designing a specific way for Methodists to care for each other. Second, what we should note is that Methodism was not originally intended to be a new church. It was a movement of revival within the church of England.

Now after saying all that, let us delve into John Wesley’s message to identify three things that have to do with the character of a Christian in today’s society.

First of all, believing the Word of God to be the only rule for both Christian faith and practice should distinguish between a Methodist and a non Methodist, as Wesley would point out. The place of Scripture should be the foundation of our lifestyle as Christians. The Bible frames the way we relate to other people and how we should daily live in our homes, at work, at school, or everywhere we go. This implies a personal study of God’s word and study of Scripture with other people in Sunday School, small groups or any other contexts that help us inform and form us as we apply ourselves to Bible study.

Secondly,  Wesley talked about another mark, which is “a life of purity.” This is the desire not to please oneself but God. It is “not to do his or her own will, but the will of Him that sent him.” In other words, a Methodist is a person who does everything to the glory of God, Wesley would argue. This second mark that distinguishes the Christian in today’s society is to always ask oneself the question: “is God pleased in what I am doing?” Whether it is a church or an individual, we should always use the question to guide our decision making process: “Where is God’s glory in what we are doing or about to do?”

Lastly but not least, a Methodist is someone who “prays without ceasing.” I love what Bishop Trimble (from Iowa Annual Conference of the United Methodist church) says: “little prayer, little power. Much prayer, much power.” Yes, a Christian with little prayer has less power. A Christian with much prayer has more power. Prayer is a distinguishing sign that reminds us that we are not in charge and we are powerless without God’s power.

So, here are questions Wesley would encourage you and I to use in order to check on our character as Christians (Methodists):

1. Where is the place of God’s Word in my life?

2. Do I seek always God’s glory or will before making any decision?

3. Do I always humble myself under God’s mighty hand as a daily discipline of prayer? 

In case you would like to read John Wesley’s entire text, please click here.