The unrealised ethical potential of the Methodist theology of prevenient grace

David N Field

doi:10.4102/hts.v71i1.2987

Abstract

This article examines the unrealised ethical potential of the theology of prevenient grace. It begins with a brief analysis of John Wesley’s rejection of slavery as rooted in his theology of prevenient grace. This is demonstrated in the next section which analyses Wesley’s notion of prevenient grace. This is followed by a constructive proposal for a contemporary theology of prevenient grace and some ethical implications of this theology, for contemporary social and political ethics, are developed.

Highlights

In 1774 John Wesley, the principle founder of Methodism, compiled a small booklet entitled Thoughts upon Slavery (Wesley 1979:59–79)
It begins with a brief analysis of John Wesley’s rejection of slavery as rooted in his theology of prevenient grace. This is demonstrated which analyses Wesley’s notion of prevenient grace. This is followed by a constructive proposal for a contemporary theology of prevenient grace and some ethical implications of this theology, for contemporary social and political ethics, are developed
An ethic grounded in prevenient grace affirms both that there are trans-cultural norms which Wesley viewed as being summed up in the Golden Rule or in the triad of justice, mercy and truth; but their significance is continually being unfolded in diverse ways and contexts through diverse struggles for justice and freedom

Summary

Introduction

In 1774 John Wesley, the principle founder of Methodism, compiled a small booklet entitled Thoughts upon Slavery (Wesley 1979:59–79). Grace in Wesley’s theology of prevenient grace is the active presence of the Spirit of God within all human beings.

Results

Conclusion