United Methodist Beliefs: A Brief Introduction [Paperback]

William H. Willimon (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 19, 2007

This brief introduction spells out the major beliefs of the United Methodist Church in a clear, nontechnical style. William Willimon, the beloved United Methodist author, preacher, teacher, and bishop, discusses the great theological themes that United Methodists share in common with all Christians as well as the particular accents and emphases that characterize United Methodist understandings of Christian doctrines. In his engaging style, Willimon opens the door for further study, challenging the reader to move toward a continuing reflection on their faith. This guide will be of great value to those who are beginning their study of United Methodist beliefs as well as those who have long been in the church and want a helpful way to refresh their understandings of the distinctiveness of United Methodist doctrine.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Starred Review. Methodist bishop and noted preacher Willimon (Pastor, and, with Stanley Hauerwas, Resident Aliens), opens his lucid and thought-provoking overview of Methodist beliefs with the counterintuitive claim that Jesus actually wasn't principally concerned about beliefs. He wanted people to follow him, not necessarily assent to a set of "cool intellectual propositions" about him. Still, Methodists do have doctrines, which Willimon feels are worthy, God-given guideposts to following Jesus. Willimon first tackles the Trinity, underscoring that "a decisive change in the human heart can and does occur under the prompting of grace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit." He then moves on to Methodist beliefs about Jesus, salvation, grace and good works. Especially important is his chapter on the church, where, reprising themes that pervade his earlier writing, Willimon argues that although Americans desire to go the spiritual life alone, Methodism teaches that people become most fully conformed to Christ when they are part of the larger ecclesial body. Methodist church life, says Willimon, is a tad schizophrenic, appreciating order while also seeking "radical renewal." Written with Willimon's characteristic dry wit, this highly readable book brings to life doctrines that in other hands would seem dry and dusty. Willimon has produced the most insightful introduction to Methodism available today. (May)
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About the Author

William H. Willimon is the Presiding Bishop of the Birmingham Area of the North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church. Recognized as one of the most effective preachers in the English-speaking world, he is the author of several books, including United Methodist Beliefs: A Brief Introduction and The Early Preaching of Karl Barth, both published by WJK.

Product Details

• Paperback: 96 pages
• Publisher: Westminster John Knox Press (April 19, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0664230407
• ISBN-13: 978-0664230401
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #409,023 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

William H. Willimon is Presiding Bishop of the North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church, Birmingham, AL area, and Visiting Research Professor, Duke Divinity School, Durham, NC. Prior to his current position he served for twenty years as Professor of Christian Ministry and Dean of Duke University Chapel. He is the author of fifty books, and over a million copies of his books have been sold. His articles have appeared in many publications including The Christian Ministry, Quarterly Review, Liturgy, Worship, and Christianity Today. His Pulpit Resource is used each week by over eight thousand pastors in the U.S.A., Canada, and Australia. He was selected in a Baylor University survey as one of the "Twelve Most Effective Preachers in the English-Speaking World."

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Look Before You Leap, August 22, 2009

By 

Sarah J. Rice (Tennessee) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: United Methodist Beliefs: A Brief Introduction (Paperback)

This is a great little book for those thinking about joining the Methodists or for those new to the faith. It was extremely helpful to me in my quest for understanding the basic tenets of the Methodist faith. After being a Baptist for most of my life, I wanted to be sure that the Methodist faith was comparable to my lifelong beliefs. This book provided that information without a great deal of technical jargon as is found in some books regarding Christianity. It was an easy read without the feel of a "textbook."

1.0 out of 5 stars Preaching to the Choir, November 25, 2011

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jpinsatx - See all my reviews

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This review is from: United Methodist Beliefs: A Brief Introduction (Paperback)

Thought-provoking collection of opinionated sermon notes. The author is obviously "Preaching to the Choir". Unedited and difficult to follow. Definitely not recommended for the Un-churched.

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

1.0 out of 5 stars A Good Start, April 19, 2011

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A United Methodist Pastor - See all my reviews

This review is from: United Methodist Beliefs: A Brief Introduction (Paperback)

This book is at times brilliant, but it is also very uneven and would have greatly benefited from an editor. It reads like the rough draft of a great sermon.