J Wesley Quotes: What is Grace?

Summary

In this video, Professor Wendy explores John Wesley's profound understanding of grace, a central tenet in Methodism. She discusses how grace, as both God's unmerited love and the Holy Spirit's transformative power, is freely given to all. Wesley's views emphasize that grace is not earned but is the sole work of God, who instills and fulfills good desires in believers. The video also touches on the role of 'preventing grace' in initiating salvation and the importance of individuals working out their own salvation with God's continuous assistance.

Takeaways

• 📜 John Wesley's quotes are explored to understand his theology and impact on Methodism.
• 🌟 Wesley defined grace as both the unmerited love of God and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
• 🔑 Grace, according to Wesley, is free and not dependent on human merit, works, or righteousness.
• 💡 Wesley emphasized that all good in man and good works are gifts from God, originating from His grace.
• 🙏 He clarified that God's grace is the initiator and sustainer of the process of salvation.
• 🛐 Wesley discussed the role of 'preventing grace' in giving humans the initial desire to please God.
• 🕊️ Salvation, according to Wesley, involves both justification and sanctification through faith.
• 🌱 He believed that everyone has some degree of grace, even if they do not recognize or act on it.
• 💪 Wesley encouraged Christians to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, acknowledging God's grace.
• 🌟 The video concludes with a call to action for viewers to engage with Wesley's teachings and explore their faith.

Q & A

Who is the speaker in the video, and what is its focus?

The speaker is Professor Wendy, and the video focuses on a series of quotes from John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, particularly his understanding of grace.

What is the significance of John Wesley’s view on grace in his theology?

Wesley’s view on grace is crucial because it encompasses both God's unmerited love for humanity and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit that changes a believer into a new creation.

How does Wesley define grace in his quotes?

According to Wesley, grace refers to both the unmerited love of God and the power of the Holy Spirit that transforms believers. He explains that grace is freely given and is not dependent on human merit or actions.

What does Wesley mean by ‘free in all’ in reference to grace?

Wesley means that grace is entirely free and does not depend on any merit, good works, or righteousness in humans. All good in man comes from the free grace of God, not from human effort or intentions.

Who receives God’s gift of grace, according to Wesley?

Wesley asserts that God’s grace is free for all, and it is offered to everyone. Romans 8:32 supports this, as it states that God freely gives all things, including grace, through His Son.

How does Wesley describe the working of grace in human beings?

Wesley describes grace as both initiating and sustaining salvation. It starts with prevenient grace, which includes the first desire to please God and a recognition of sin. Grace continues to work through repentance, faith, and sanctification.

What is prevenient grace, according to John Wesley?

Prevenient grace is the grace that precedes salvation. It includes the first desires to please God, the first understanding of God's will, and an initial conviction of sin. This grace begins the process of transformation.

How does Wesley address the concept of human merit in relation to grace?

Wesley emphasizes that grace is entirely unmerited. It does not depend on any human actions, desires, or intentions. All good in a person comes from God's grace, and humans cannot claim any credit for it.

Does Wesley believe that anyone is without access to God’s grace?

No, Wesley believes that no one is entirely without God’s grace. He argues that everyone has some measure of grace, such as conscience or good desires, unless they have completely rejected it.

What practical advice does Wesley give on how to work with God’s grace?

Wesley advises believers to labor diligently in faith, hope, and love, relying on God’s grace to guide and strengthen them. He encourages steadfastness in doing God’s will, with the assurance that God’s grace will accompany them.