Bible Roots
Church Fathers & Theologians
Depiction of John Wesley

Enlightenment, Revival & Nineteenth-Century Theology · AD 1700–1900

John Wesley

1703–1791 · Methodist · England

An Anglican priest and preacher whose societies and teaching helped establish the Methodist movement.

Major contributions

Methodism, Arminianism, sanctification

  • Organized societies and small groups for Christian formation.
  • Emphasized conversion, holiness, and practical care for others.

Theological positions

Modern labels do not always describe historical writers precisely.

  • Methodist

    His ministry shaped the Methodist movement.

  • Arminianism

    He opposed unconditional predestination and defended grace offered to all, while retaining his Anglican identity.

Major writings

  • Sermons on Several Occasions
  • A Plain Account of Christian Perfection

Sources