Core Values
Who we are : What
we Believe : Today's
Issues
The following are terms descriptive of who Wesleyans are
and why they do what they do. They describe the "soul"
of the Church. They are the core values, because they are
at the center, as primary motivations for all Wesleyans do.
BIBLICAL AUTHORITY: The Bible is the highest source
of written authority for Gods plan for His people; it
reveals how to live out that plan, individually and corporately.
Beliefs, practices and priorities are to be anchored in clear
biblical teachings.
CHRISTLIKENESS: Jesus Christ is the defining feature
of Gods will for all humankind. In Christ is found the
highest and most practical meaning and clearest example for
holy living or godliness. Christ is both example and strength
as Wesleyans pursue integrity, excellence, faith, hope and
love.
DISCIPLE-MAKING: Making disciples is a clear mandate
from Christ. This requires a strong focus on evangelism and
training in spiritual growth and holy living. Done effectively,
this will produce and promote growth and health in and among
the churches.
LOCAL CHURCH CENTERED: The denomination exists to
serve local congregations. Local churches are the most fundamental
and strategic points of evangelism and discipleship. The challenge
of the denomination is to keep finding the best ways to serve
and strengthen congregations.
SERVANT LEADERSHIP: Wesleyans respect leadership that
is placed over them, while realizing that the authority and
effectiveness of spiritual leadership is not primarily bestowed,
but earned and manifested by a loving and willing heart of
obedience that serves God and mankind gladly. Wesleyans desire
to be leaders in serving.
UNITY IN DIVERSITY: There is intrinsic value in every
person. Unity becomes all the more important and beautiful
in light of the wide ranges of difference in personality,
culture, race, talents, and perspectives. Loving each other
eliminates devaluation and deprivation of life to one another.
CULTURAL RELEVANCE: Wesleyans are called to keep serving
the present age. The Church respects and builds on its past
without becoming its slave. Wesleyans are "culture informed"
for the sake of reaching people for Christ, but not "culture
captives," in the sense of surrendering core values,
beliefs and behaviors.
To read the full version of the Wesleyan Church Beliefs,
click here
Who we are : What
we Believe : Today's
Issues
© 2002 The Wesleyan Church
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