What We Believe
The United Methodist Church (UMC) is founded on Wesleyan theology, which is based on the teachings of John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement. Wesleyan theology emphasizes both what people believe and how they live and is anchored in Scripture. Some key aspects of Wesleyan theology include:
Grace
God's grace is a gift that prepares people to follow Jesus Christ.
The Wesleyan Quadrilateral
The Wesleyan Quadrilateral is the idea that the Christian faith is revealed in Scripture, illuminated by tradition, vivified in personal experience, and confirmed by reason.
Holiness
Wesley taught that people should pursue "holiness of heart and life", which he described as "universal love filling the heart, and governing the life".
Connectional Ties
The UMC believes that connectional ties bind people together in faith and service, and intensify their desire for peace and justice.
The UMC's doctrinal standards are stated in the United Methodist Book of Discipline, and include the Articles of Religion, Confessions of Faith, and The Standard Sermons of John Wesley.
For more information about who Methodists are and what we believe, click here.
"What is a United Methodist?" from UMC.org