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by John R. Tyson (Author)
This second installment of the Methodist story, Shaped by Controversy, examines eight of the major controversies that epitomize aspects of Methodism's inter-family dialogue and trauma. These theological, ecclesial, and ethical controversies tried the values, tested the patience, and strained our familial relationships. Ultimately they divided the Methodist movement. Ironically, controversy was often rooted in something that was good and right about the Methodist movement--a commitment to addressing what had somehow gotten out of balance and become destructive. Internal struggles over matters related to class, economic status, gender, and race shook Methodism precisely because the inclusion of all people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life was a foundational aspect of the early Methodism. Contentious controversies have revolved around matters like: 1) the nature of spiritual life, faith, and good works; 2) predestination and the nature Christian assurance of salvation; 3) the difficulties of living out Christian Perfection in a world full of imperfect people; 4) the pain and trauma of ecclesiastical separation; 5) women's leadership in the church; 6) the debilitating effects of racism and segregation; 7) governance and shared leadership; and 8) the affirmation and full inclusion of LGBTQ people. These controversies within the church family have challenged and pained Methodists deeply. They have also forced Methodists to examine their own priorities and clarify what matters most to them. How the Methodists responded to these controversies, for good or for ill, has shaped the identity of the Methodists as people of faith. Hopefully, both guidance and encouragement can be found in this history because the past is often like a distant mirror that reflects very clearly upon lives lived today.
Author Biography
John R. Tyson is professor emeritus of church history and former director of Methodist studies at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. He is an internationally known expert in the field of Wesleyan Studies and has drawn upon a lifetime of research and practical experience in the Methodist tradition to examine the social, cultural, theological, and political forces that gave birth to Methodism, as well as the main historical controversies that shaped, shook, and forced the tradition to define and sometimes redefine itself and its mission to a troubled world. Tyson has also published Charles Wesley: A Reader, Charles Wesley on Sanctification, In the Midst of Early Methodism: The Life and Letters of Selina Hastings, Assist Me to Proclaim: The Life and Hymns of Charles Wesley, The Way of the Wesleys, and Praying with the Wesleys.
