The theology of grace in John Wesley’s thought
https://doi.org/2658-4158-2026-3-17-35
Abstract
This article examines the doctrine of grace in the theology of John Wesley, one of the founders of the Methodist movement. The study explores key aspects of Wesley’s understanding of grace, including prevenient, justifying, and sanctifying grace, as well as their connection to the doctrines of salvation and Christian perfection. Particular attention is given to the influence of Anglican tradition and Reformation ideas on the formation of Wesley’s views, and to the practical embodiment of his theology in Methodist practice. The article demonstrates how the doctrine of grace became the foundation for Wesley’s emphasis on personal spiritual experience and the social responsibility of believers. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the specifics of Methodist theology and its impact on contemporary Protestant thought.
About the Author
E. N. AntonovaRussian Federation
Elena N. Antonova
76, Vernadsky Av., Moscow, 119454
References
1. Auden, Th.K. and Longden, L.R., eds. (1991), The Wesleyan theological heritage: Essays of Albert C. Outler, Zondervan, Grand Rapids, USA.
2. Cell, G.C. (1984), The rediscovery of John Wesley, Lanham, USA.
3. Dillinberger, J. and Weich, G. (1054), Protestant Christianity, Charles Scribner’s Sons, New York, USA.
4. Lindstrom, H. (1982), Wesley and sanctification: s study in the doctrine of salvation, Francis Asbury Publishing Co, Wilmore, USA.
5. Smirnykh, S. (2018), Ueslianstvo i pravoslavie: bogoslovie Dzhona Uesli s pozitsii very pravoslavnoi tserkvi [Wesleyanism and Orthodoxy: The theology of John Wesley from the perspective of the faith of the Orthodox Church], Ridero, Moscow, Russia
6. Todd, J.M. (1958), John Wesley and the catholic church, Hodder and Stoughton / Catholic Book Club, London, UK.
7. Williams, C. (1960), John Wesley’s theology today, Abingdon Press, Nashville, USA.
Review
For citations:
Antonova E.N. The theology of grace in John Wesley’s thought. Studia Religiosa Rossica: Russian Journal of Religion. 2026;(3):17-35. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/2658-4158-2026-3-17-35
JATS XML


















