J. Robert Ewbank, voortkomend uit een rijke traditie als derde-generatie Methodistische predikant, duikt in het theologische landschap van John Wesley. Zijn werk onderzoekt kritisch de leerstellige dwalingen waarmee Wesley werd geconfronteerd, vanuit de perspectieven van verschillende groepen, en verkent de theologische strijd die Wesley voerde om zijn volgelingen te beschermen tegen afwijkende doctrines. Ewbank analyseert weloverwogen Wesley's kernbegrippen, waaronder erfzonde en christelijke volmaaktheid, naast zijn interacties met gevestigde kerkelijke instanties. Door middel van zijn geschriften biedt Ewbank de lezers een diepgaand inzicht in de fundamentele theologie en de historische ontwikkeling van het Methodisme.
John Wesley, a pivotal figure in Christianity and the founder of the Methodist Church, emphasized practical theology aimed at the common man. Renowned for his extensive writings, he produced fourteen volumes of works and numerous letters and journals. His brother contributed to Methodism through hymn writing, while Wesley made classic Christian texts accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, he delivered thousands of sermons, both in churches and public spaces, showcasing his dedication to spreading the faith.
This is a compilation of vignettes of things that have happened to members of our family. It is recollections of events and people and of their interactions. Most of these recollections and events are told with a touch of humor, but some of them are straightforward and of daily life and problems we all face. These little stories are grouped around various events in the author's life, such as childhood, children, Baker University, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, various organizations for which he worked including the ministry, Union Steel Products, Michigan Standard Alloys, Echlin, Hi-Lex Controls, teaching at colleges and universities, and yes, even a bakery after retirement. There are some words about his prostate cancer, which after surgery and radiation therapy seems to be in remission at least for now. Some are about his difficulties and disillusionment with God, but God has won out largely or particularly through getting to know and love his wife. There are stories about both wives and the love and some of the troubles they had. The book ends with postscripts and some conclusions that are taken from the author's life and thoughts. This memoir is intended primarily for the four children as a Christmas present in 2013. Hopefully these recollections and concluding remarks will be interesting to others so they too will enjoy these memories of one family.
Focusing on John Wesley's theological battles, this book explores his commitment to "true religion" as a heartfelt faith. Wesley challenged misconceptions about original sin, predestination, the church, and Christian perfection, aiming to safeguard the spiritual well-being of those who relied on his guidance. Through these conflicts, he sought to promote a more authentic and compassionate understanding of Christianity.
