4 Core Principles of Methodism

Calling

Every United Methodist, lay and clergy person, is called to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. We are called to be life-long learners and followers of Jesus who passionately serve God in the church and in the world.  Disciples live their baptismal vows, renouncing sin, confessing Jesus and ending evil, injustice and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.

Character

We are to live by the highest standards of faith, making ethical decisions and caring for creation, being faithful in relationships, ending injustice, evil and oppression, and welcoming and including everyone in ministry and worship. Adhere to Wesley’s 3 Simple Rules:

Do all the good you can

Do no harm and

Stay in Love with God

Values 

As United Methodists we have 7 core values

1.   Grace

God’s grace is sufficient for salvation and is offered 

to all through a personal relationship with Jesus

2.   Extending God’s Grace

Grace is extended through the sacraments of communion and baptism to adults, youth and children, and be being graceful as witnessed in the life of Jesus.

3.   The Bible

The bible is the primary authority and revelation for salvation and living and is interpreted through scripture, tradition, reason and experience.

4.   Personal and Social Holiness  

United Methodists grow spiritually and are accountable for faithful living and service in the world.

5.   Connectionalism

United Methodists are connected through a web of congregations and organizations that share a common mission, doctrine, apportioned mission support, itineracy and holy conferencing.

6.   Diversity and Inclusion 

 United Methodists welcome and include all people in the life of the church.  

7.   Open itineracy

While recognizing differences among congregations – theology, languages spoken, leadership needs and contexts – bishops and superintendents teach, support and practice open itineracy in making appointments.

Means of Grace  

Wesley taught that God’s grace is unearned but we are not to be idle waiting to experience grace but engage actively in means of grace.  God’s mystery works in the hearts and thinking of disciples through the means of grace, hastening, strengthening and confirming faith so that God’s grace pervades in and through disciples.  The means of grace are categorized into works of piety and mercy.     

Works of Piety

Individual Practices  

Reading, meditating on and studying the scriptures, prayer, fasting, regularly attending worship, healthy living and sharing our faith with others.

Communal Practices  

Regularly sharing in the sacraments, Christian conferencing and Bible Study.  

Works of Mercy

Individual Practices  

Doing good works, visiting the sick, visiting those in prison, feeding the hungry and giving generously to the needs of others

Communal Practices

Advocating for and seeking justice, ending oppression, injustice and discrimination and addressing the needs of others, particularly the poor, the marginalized, the oppressed, the children and the elderly.