On Unity and Schism - Reflections on Wesley's Sermon

PREFACE

I decided to create a series of reflections that I titled: “On Unity and Schism”. The reflections are based on Wesley’s 1872 sermon on schism. My local church, as well as others, are discussing "disaffiliation" (separation) from the United Methodist Church. I found Wesley's sermon during the listening phase and decided to discern and reflect on Wesley's sermon points and what each was saying. As I read the words, I was profoundly moved as to my own feelings and actions over the last few months/years.

First, I firmly believe one can not talk about schism without also speaking to unity.  Wesley understood this.

What beautiful words Wesley provides in his sermon.  Especially, item #17. I realize there is a LOT of reading with this series. Take your time. If time is limited, I strongly encourage everyone discussing disaffiliation to spend time on at least point #17 -- as it discusses the sole reason for schism.

Wesley put to words all the feelings and the struggles that I have been experiencing.  It feels as if God’s hand has come to embrace my heart.    Knowing these words and how history has unfolded is so comforting; for it shows how amazing our Lord is.   There is no defeat in whatever our local church decides - unity or schism.   For there is no victory in the decision itself. For the Spirit is at work and there is only grace and hope, abounding by the trust in our Lord..   Regardless of what the authorities decide, the ultimate Will of God brings  unity and refreshes the Spirit of our connections. 

At the same time, I must confess my recent actions:  forgive me Father for I have sinned.   In reading Wesley’s words on the nature and evil of schism I find my thoughts, actions and words within his warnings.   I realize how much my words and actions reflected a bias against my brothers and sisters who hold a different conscience.  

I have learned that the greatest element of pride is the act of stepping away from a conversation.   Even the act of shutting down because of the pain of holding the tension of “different thinking” members in our community.  I’ve heard some say

• I just want to be with like minded people.
• I want to avoid the tension.  
• I am tired of the tension. 
• This is not what church should be.
• I am justified in separating. 

Now, imagine the tension Wesley dealt with in his own life when penning this sermon. Then imagine the pain of our Lord, on the Cross, when he asked - "forgive them for they know not what they do". 

I pray my actions and words going forward should guide me and others to holiness.   To release all claims of righteous judgment. To be secure in my conscience and more importantly - secure in my Lord.   It is in God that I will trust.

REFLECTIONS ON WESLEY's SERMON

The list of all reflections can be found on the left side of my blog.

I decided to work through each point slowly and to write down my thought on each point.

I decided to build 1 page per point so readers can comment on individual points.

Each point has 4 parts:

• Title

• Wesley’s words (I did modify some old English into modern day language - very little)

• Prayer

• Reflection

The reflections are my thoughts at the time. 

NEXT: Wesley's Introduction