The Wesleys and Their Times
John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, focused his theology on the love of God and the love of others as the essential qualities of a Christian. Even today when a Methodist is asked what is most important about religion, the most likely answer is "to love God" or "to love others." The United Methodist Church does have a theological perspective based on its Wesleyan tradition, however. In addition, the United Methodist Church has long attempted to translate those traditions into ethical and moral teachings for individuals and for society. The traditions of Methodism allow for a wide variety of beliefs and views. The documents below reflect current trends within the denomination.