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People
with a Rich Heritage
As the name implies, Free Methodists trace their heritage back to original
Methodism as led by its founder, John Wesley. When Methodism came to America,
churches and annual conferences spread across the land. In 1860, in western
New York and Illinois, the Free Methodist Church came into being. In New
York a group of 1,000 Methodist laymen held several conventions and were
joined by evangelical Methodist pastors. On August 23, 1860, the new denomination
came into being.
 Issues
that were important to them included slavery in America. While the mother
church did not take a stand, those who took the name "Free"
Methodist opposed slavery. Another issue in that time was the widespread
practice of renting and selling church pews, thus relegating the poor
to benches in the back of the sanctuary. "Free" Methodists called
for free seats for all and emphasized tithes and offerings to support
the church's ministries. Freedom in worship, in contrast to deadening
formalism, was also important to "Free" Methodists.
As a result, the newly
named Free Methodists sought to maintain the heritage of original Methodism
with its warm-hearted, biblical message and lifestyle.
Students
of the Bible
The inspired, authoritative Word of God is the basis of faith for Free
Methodists. They endeavor to live their lives according to its teachings
(James 1:22-25). Their churches offer Bible classes for all ages, preschool
through adults, so that all may grow in grace and faith.
Devoted
to Christ
Free Methodists are among those who have experienced spiritual birth through
faith in Jesus Christ, as explained by Jesus to Nicodemus in John 3:1-17.
John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, described his own conversion by
saying that when Christ came into his life, "My heart was strangely
warmed." The life-changing miracle of spiritual birth makes a Free
Methodist, or any other believer, "a new creation" (2 Corinthians
5:17). A personal relationship with Jesus Christ and an obedient walk
with Him characterize Free Methodist Christians.
Seeking
to Live Holy Lives
As a people, Free Methodists seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians
5:18), exhibit the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and live disciplined
lives in accord with the Bible's teachings. The Bible speaks of being
"sanctified," which has two meanings: set apart and cleansed.
Being set apart unto Christ and cleansed and filled by the Holy Spirit
is more than a goal. It is a way of life taught in the Scriptures.
Worshiping
Christians
Free Methodists seek to worship God "in spirit and truth" (John
4:23). From church to church, and in multiple services of some local congregations,
varieties of worship styles may be found. Yet, the heart of worship is
to glorify God and receive biblical instruction.
Witnessing
Christians
The goal of Free Methodists is to represent Jesus Christ in their daily
living. They do this both through the way they live and in sharing the
gospel's good news with others. Not known to be "hard sell"
in their witness, they seek to be humble and winsome in showing forth
Christ through their lives and lips.
Generous
Christians
Year after year, Free Methodists are at or near the top in per capita
giving of tithes and offerings. Because of their love for the Lord, they
follow His example in caring and in generosity. Their track record of
compassionate outreach to those in need is seen not only in local congregations,
but also in institutional ministries for those with needs Christians can
help to meet.
A Belonging People
Free Methodists have planted the church and its Christian witness across
the North American continent and around the world in nearly 50 countries.
As a Christian denomination, Free Methodists belong to the Lord and to
each other, even though they speak many world languages. They also belong
to various evangelical interdenominational associations.
Global Christians
Taking seriously the Great Commission of Jesus (Matthew 28:18-20), Free
Methodists have gone across the street, into the inner city and around
the world with the saving gospel of Jesus Christ. Local churches, followed
by the denomination's Christian colleges, universities and seminary programs,
train and equip men and women for Christian ministry at home and abroad.
People with a Mission
"The mission of the Free Methodist Church is to make known to all
people everywhere God's call to wholeness through forgiveness and holiness
in Jesus Christ, and to invite into membership and equip for ministry
all who respond in faith."
-Written by Bob Haslam
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