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Three Simple Rules for a Wesleyan Way of
Living What then is the mark? Who is a Methodist,
according to your own ac-count?‖ I answer: A Methodist is one who has
―the love of God shed abroad in his heart by the Holy Ghost given unto
him: one who ―loves the Lord his God with all his heart, and with all
his soul, and with all his mind, and with all his strength. God is the joy of
his heart, and the desire of his soul; which is constantly crying out,
―Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none upon earth that I
desire beside thee! My God and my all! Thou art the strength of my heart, and
my portion forever!‖ – ―The
Character of a Methodist,‖ in Works, Vol. 8: page 341. The above quote is used by
Rueben P. Job before the preface in Three Simple Rules A Wesleyan Way of
Living. In The Book of Discipline of the United
Methodist Church 2004 in paragraph 103 the following is shared. As early
as 1739 John Wesley organized people in what was then called a United Society
with each society broken down into classes of about 12 persons. The only
requirement to be admitted into a society was that one desired to be saved
from their sins. Once that relationship with God was established, the expectation
was that the salvation their souls would be shown by its fruits. The three
simple rules were used to measure the fruits of each person’s salvation. So,
when the classes of 8 to 12 met each week they would hold each other
accountable using these 3 simple rules. 1. By doing no harm, by
avoiding evil of every kind, especially that which is most generally
practiced. 2. By doing good; as a people of faith choose mercy as God
has shown us mercy; as we have opportunity, doing good of every possible
sort. 3. By attending upon all the ordinances of God (Stay in love with
God). Some of the ways we stay in love with God or continue to grow in
our relationship with God are attend worship, read scripture, receive Holy
Communion, pray both publicly and privately, study the scriptures, and
fasting or abstinence. ―Seek the Lord and his strength; seek
his presence continually‖ Psalm 105:4 NRSV. May God bless us all on our journey with
Christ. Grace and Peace, Matt |
