Jonathan LeMaster-Smith

I’m such a Methodist, y’all. I teared up with the “And are we Yet Alive” and the opening gavel.

The opening episcopal address set the stage for a conference that will claim its Wesleyan heritage but not dwell on the past. They are leaning into sanctification and grace and the belief that God is doing a new thing. I think most clearly they named sanctification, especially entire sanctification as a goal, which is, honestly, refreshing. In the naming of grace, one bishop notes convincing/convicting grace. I think the addition of this grace, which Wesley uses is helpful to a denomination that is working to be more opening evangelical.

My take is that a more conservative/traditional reading of scripture is important to them, but they are working to make sure that they do not suggest or encourage it to lead to acting and speaking with hate. Invoking Wesley’s mission to reform the nation, particularly the church, and spread scriptural holiness over the land is an excellent starting point to usher in revival and renewal. Moreover, naming the reality that we as denominations need to shed some baggage is real. The UMC should listen to this too.

Finally, I think the bishops are working to make sure that The Global Methodist Church cannot be a denomination that is simply against something, they have become a denomination that is for something, and that something being the saving and sanctifying grace of Jesus Christ.

I do earnestly hope that they will be a church that spreads the gospel, lets go of the past, and works to live into the new thing God has called them toward.