Rev. Dr. Travis Stevick

One of the doctrines that is distinct in the Wesleyan tradition is the doctrine of Christian Perfection or Entire Sanctification. It has not always been claimed as fully as it might have been over the years, but it was characteristic of Wesley’s teaching and the theological legacy he left to the early Methodists. It is important to make sure it is clear, though, that Wesley did not invent this doctrine. He argued that it was to be found taught in the New Testament in many places, and it would...

One of the things that has shaped the early days of the Global Methodist Church is a commitment to classic Christian orthodoxy and sound doctrine. That is to say, it is crucially important to make sure that our beliefs are correct, by which we mean in alignment with the words and spirit of the Holy Scriptures. In spite of what news organizations may have claimed, the key issue for all the Global Methodist leaders that I know was always Biblical authority and the importance of doctrine. It has...

For the past several months, I have used this space to work through a Wesleyan understanding of grace and salvation. Throughout that journey, I have done two things: First, I used the traditional theological language (prevenient, sanctification, etc.). This was to introduce the terms to anyone who might not already be familiar with them, and to make it clear how these discussions might show up in other places. The other thing I did on purpose, though it is up to the reader to determine how...