Our relationship with Christ in the World. The ministry of all Christians in the United Methodist tradition has always been energized by deep religious experience, with emphasis on how ministry relates to our obligations to Jesus Christ. The early Methodists developed a way of life that fostered consistency and reliability, and their methodical discipleship is best expressed in the General Rules that John Wesley first published in 1743, and remain in the United Methodist Book of Discipline, pages 71-73. (See ¶ 205.) These Rules, referred to by Wesley as "Works of Mercy" and "Works of Piety," may be summarized as follows: Avoiding Evil; Doing Good; and Attending upon the Ordinances of God. They may be expressed through: Acts of Devotion and Worship; Witness to Christ in the World; Acts of Compassion and Justice; Attentiveness to the Guidance of the Holy Spirit.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 21748-MN-114-D
1996 United Methodist General Conference