Reflections on The Discipline

The article examines the Local Church Conference as outlined in The Discipline of The Wesleyan Church 2022, highlighting its role as the primary governing body of local congregations. It emphasizes the importance of member participation in maintaining balanced authority and accountability within the church’s presbyterian-like structure. The author expresses concern over declining member involvement, noting that decreased attendance at Local Church Conference meetings can lead to an imbalance of power, favoring clergy over laity. This shift may reduce lay ownership of the church’s mission and vision, potentially impacting overall church health and effectiveness.

The discussion explores the decline in church membership relative to attendance, raising concerns about the potential centralization of power among clergy. It emphasizes the need to balance inclusivity with commitment and examines how membership should function as a meaningful step in discipleship rather than merely an institutional requirement.

In reviewing The Wesleyan Church’s Discipline, the author suggests rethinking the “developing church” classification, distinguishing between church plants and revitalization efforts due to their unique challenges. He also proposes reevaluating the “urban missional church” category to better address the complexities of urban ministry.

The article examines Chapter 5 of The Discipline of The Wesleyan Church, titled “Special Directions,” which addresses various non-dogmatic issues. It highlights the need to clarify positions on topics like human sexuality and modesty, suggesting updates to ensure relevance and clear guidance for contemporary and future Wesleyans.

Chapter 4 of The Discipline contains The Constitution of The North American General Conference. Basic Christian doctrines and the basic outline for our governing structure are established here. Appropriately, these things can be changed, but it requires a tremendous amount of work to do so. Allow me to be clear. The general principles established in The Constitution are sound. They establish as thoroughly orthodox and distinguish us as thoroughly entrenched in the holiness movement with a presbyterian form of government. I will not be advocating for any seismic shifts in this area. However, I would offer a few observations.

What are the five foundational values of The Wesleyan Church as evidenced in her history?

In light of the upcoming Fifteenth General Conference of The Wesleyan Church, I have begun a review of The Discipline of The Wesleyan Church 2022, which serves as the seminal definition of Wesleyan belief and polity. My objective in this is to remind myself of the timeless things which have driven our denomination since its inception and to consider how to best pursue them in the next fifty years. Moreover, I intend to document this journey by sharing thoughts, experiences, and dreams along the way, and in so doing, I hope to encourage and even inspire those who will be elected in 2025 to be present at General Conference in 2026 to imagine what could and should be.