John Wesley: A Theological Journey [Paperback]

Kenneth J. Collins (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 2003

John Wesley: A Theological Journey has been nominated for a Wesleyan Theological Society Book Award. Abingdon Press would like to congratulate Kenneth Collins on this honor.

John Wesley remains a seminal figure, not only for "the people called Methodist, " but also within the larger Protestant tradition. Understanding his theology is a requirement for understanding the development of the Western Christian tradition in the modern period. In recent years much work has been done to grasp the intricacies of Wesley's theology. However, most of this work has been thematic in organization, studying Wesley's thought according to a topical or systematic outline. The weakness of this approach, argues Kenneth J. Collins, is that it fails to demonstrate the evolution and changes of Wesley's theology. What is called for is a historical presentation--one that examines the development of Wesley's theology across the span of his long and eventful theological career. Collins thus provides a chronological presentation of the development of Wesley's theology. Drawing on an extensive examination of the primary sources, and demonstrating an intimate knowledge of the different contexts and social locations in which Wesley's theology took place, John Wesley: A Theological Journey will be necessary reading for anyone wishing to understand the broad scope of the Methodist leader's theological development and contribution.

Product Details

• Paperback: 355 pages
• Publisher: Abingdon Press (February 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0687027888
• ISBN-13: 978-0687027880
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6.3 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #287,322 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #76 in Books > Christian Books & Bibles > Protestantism > Methodist

More About the Author

Kenneth J. Collins was born in New York City and was raised in an Irish Catholic family. His grandfather, Lawrence Collins, emigrated from Kilrush, County Claire at the beginning of the twentieth century. After living as a practical atheist throughout much of his college years, he had a life-transforming conversion experience upon reading the writings of John Wesley, eighteenth century British leader and founder of Methodism. He is Professor of Historical Theology and Wesley Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

28 of 28 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must read for anyone interested in Wesley!, July 2, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: John Wesley: A Theological Journey (Paperback)

"John Wesley: A Theological Journey" is an excellent introduction into the theology of the founder of Methodism. What I most enjoyed about this book is how the author shows the changes in and development of Wesley's beliefs. This alone helps explain why different denominations claim Wesley as their theological inspiration while having strong disagreements from one another.

Collins helps us gain insight into the fact that John Wesley (who was 88 when he died) was always growing and developing his thought. There are times when some of the theological issues that Wesley struggled with may not seem as relevant today (the difference between dispositions and attitudes is just one example). However, what is intriguing is to see first hand through his letters and sermons how Wesley developed.

Collins is also careful to show where some modern interpretations of Wesley either ignore later changes in his thinking or take his views out of context. A good example of this is Wesley's insistence that the Christian life needs to be inward and not solitary. Collins claims some have misquoted Wesley and said that for Wesley the Christian life "was principally, if not exclusively, concerned with public religion and the social order."

Because this book is so well documented, it makes checking the original sources easy! Therefore, the reader can find out for herself/himself the accuracy of each quote. This actually inspired me to read a number of Wesley's sermons so I could determine for myself what Wesley was saying.

This is a must read for anyone wishing to understand who John Wesley was and how his theology developed over his lifetime!

19 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The evolution of John Wesley's theology, March 23, 2004

By 

Nicholas Robinson "Nick" (Kennett, MO USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: John Wesley: A Theological Journey (Paperback)

From John Wesley's ancestors, the English political and theological climate, the books Wesley read, and the people Wesley met, we learn how his theology developed. This book reveals the "fire and brimstone" Wesley in his youth turning into the pastorally sensitive older Wesley. The effects of the Anglican Church, German Pietists, Catholicism, and Puritanism all leave their clear mark on this pious and evangelical man.

The concept of the little church within the church is as worthy of consideration today as it was in the 18th century. Christian accountability is needed today. Wesley knew how to make Christian disciples. Today's efforts at forming classes, pale in comparison.

Wesley left us with a fairly detailed, insightful and personal account of his life. Wesley's plain account of Biblical text resulted in his "ordo salutis" which becomes difficult to deny. Collin's book reviews and analyzes Wesley's accounts within their historical perspective. We see Wesley with his warts and his insights.

This book is inspiring in it's historical account of Wesley's evolving theology. Read it and stand on the shoulder's of a giant in the faith.

19 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent new book has depth and readability!, April 19, 2003

By 

Amy Pritchard (Syracuse, IN USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: John Wesley: A Theological Journey (Paperback)

John Wesley: A Theological Journey was delightful to read. It is reader friendly and yet very thorough. Both the life and thought of Wesley are explored with great depth and yet with remarkable ease, all of which is attractive for all kinds of readers. I appreciated the straightforward comments made in light of an honest regard for the successes and failures in the life of John Wesley. The development of the theme of holy love is artfully composed and well documented. I highly recommend this book to those wishing to grow in their understanding of the founder of Methodism or who are seeking an engaging invitation to a vibrant and enduring theology.