Wesley's Historic Questions

Sermon Summary: This sermon explores the Methodist understanding of Christian perfection through the lens of Philippians 3:10-12 and Wesley's historic questions for ordained ministry. The pastor emphasizes that perfection in Methodist theology doesn't mean flawlessness, but rather the ongoing transformation by God's grace toward complete love of God and neighbor. Drawing from the annual conference experience, the sermon presents Wesley's 19 historic questions as a framework for all believers—not just clergy—to examine their commitment to Christ. The message culminates in an invitation to embrace the fullness of resurrection life through intentional spiritual practices, community relationships, and total surrender to God's will, concluded with Wesley's Covenant Prayer.

Key Points:

- Perfection is an ongoing process, not an instant achievement—we "press on" toward what Christ has laid hold of for us

- Christian perfection means loving God and neighbor with our full selves, allowing every part of our lives to be used according to God's will

- The three General Rules guide Methodist life: do no harm, do good, and stay in love with God

- Spiritual growth requires intentional practices and habits—worship, communion, Bible study, prayer, and service

- The Christian faith is fundamentally relational and cannot be lived alone; we need community for growth and accountability

- Children are central to church life both as recipients of formation and as examples of openness to God's transforming work

- The fullness of Christ's resurrection power is available for every moment and every aspect of our lives

- Wesley's 19 historic questions provide a framework for examining our commitment to Christ and the church

- Total surrender to God's will, as expressed in the Covenant Prayer, is the pathway to abundant life in Christ

Scripture Reference:

- Philippians 3:10-12 (primary focus): "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal, but I press on to lay hold of that for which Christ has laid hold for me."

Stories:

- The pastor and Hayden's experience attending annual conference as delegates and witnessing candidates for ministry answer Wesley's historic questions

- Reference to Jodi teaching children about the concept of perfection

- Mention of conversations with pastoral mentors about the historical practice of literal house-to-house visitation and how relational ministry has evolved in modern times

- The bishop's invitation at annual conference for attendees to kneel and pray Wesley's Covenant Prayer together, taking many outside their comfort zones