A Plain Account of Christian Perfection (Epworth Classics) [Paperback]

John Wesley (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 25, 2007 | Series: Epworth Classics

Holiness and perfection are key themes of Christian spirituality discussed by Christians of all traditions.

A Plain Account of Christian Perfection is one of the most popular texts of 18th century spirituality. A Plain Account of Christian Perfection is now available again in book format, and is an essential read for all interested in the spirituality of 18th century Anglicanism and early Methodism. Epworth Classics are a series of attractively produced new editions of spiritual classics which continue to attract a wide readership.

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

In the past few hundred years, some great Christian thinkers, pioneers, radicals and visionaries have penned works of literature that continue to influence Christians today. Rediscover the cornerstones of the Christian faith with these classic works from some of the most influential Christian thought leaders. --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

About the Author

John Wesley was an Anglican clergyman and theologian as well as one of the founders of the world-wide Methodist movement.

Product Details

• Paperback: 116 pages
• Publisher: Epworth Press (September 25, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0716206307
• ISBN-13: 978-0716206309
• Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 5 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 2.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,525,200 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

43 of 44 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Christian Perfection and John Wesley, May 17, 2000

By 

Jeffrey Sykes (Overland Park, KS United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: A Plain Account of Christian Perfection (Paperback)

John Wesley (1703-1791) firmly believed that God continued to work in the life of the believer subsequent to justification. In A Plain Account of Christian Perfection, Wesley provides an account of the development of his understanding of the doctrine of Christian Perfection. This short work contains a lucid explanation of the doctrine with special attention not only to the Biblical promises and commands that are the basis of the doctrine but also the practical way that "perfect love" works in the life of the believer. While this work was certainly intended to instruct those who were seeking "perfect love," it also attempts to answer those who would deny the doctrine.

The essence of Christian Perfection, for Wesley, was clearly defined by Christ when an expert in the law asked him, "Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?" He said to him, "`You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: `You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." (Matthew 23.36-40 NRSV)

Here one sees that, for Wesley, the main point of Christian Perfection is "perfect love." "Perfect love" thus defines our relationship to God and others.

This book is essential for those in the Wesleyan tradition and a worthwhile read for those from other Christian perspectives that wish to understand what Wesley thinks Christian Perfection is and is not.

30 of 34 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A true Christian classic, May 26, 1999

By 

Rev. Keith H. McIlwain ([e-mail]) (Western Pennsylvania) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Plain Account of Christian Perfection (Paperback)

Wesley's brief treatise on the important yet overlooked Christian doctrine of perfection is a "must read" for all Christians interested in growing in Christ. The fact that this book is not mandatory reading in every seminary and Bible school is a travesty, making a mockery contemporary Christian education. This book is excellent for anyone serious about their spiritual journey.

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Edifying and Instructive, April 7, 2004

By 

Dr. W. G. Covington, Jr. (Edinboro, Pennsylvania) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: A Plain Account of Christian Perfection (Paperback)

Since Wesley wrote in a different era, his style requires some adjustment but once one gets past that there is a lot of edifying content in this book. The key point of this book is the issue of "perfection." He sees it as living what Jesus said was the greatest commandment and its accompanying commandment, i.e., to love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your mind, all your strength, and to love your neighbor as you love yourself. Wesley's life demonstrates that he reached the goal. He traveled extensively, read widely, wrote inspiringly, and influenced many people to believe in Jesus as their Savior. Thank God for his legacy in words and deeds. He truly practiced and preached.