Charles Wesley and the Struggle for Methodist Identity

An important new study of the life and ministry of the Anglican minister and Evangelical leader Charles Wesley (1707-88) which examines the often-neglected contribution made by John Wesley's younger brother to the early history of the Methodist movement. Charles Wesley's importance as the author of classic hymns like 'Love Divine' and 'O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing' is well known, but his wider contribution to Methodism, the Church of England and the Evangelical Revival has been overlooked. Gareth Lloyd presents a new appraisal of Charles Wesley based on his own papers and those of his friends and enemies. The picture of the Revival that results from a fresh examination of one of Methodism's most significant leaders offers a new perspective on the formative years of a denomination that today has an estimated 80 million members worldwide. excellent and throught-provoking...deserve[s] the highest praise. Barrie Tabraham, Journal of Ecclesiastical History Lloyd provides us with solidly gorunded work on Charles Wesley...He gives a focused picture of the poet-priest as paradigmatic of the Methodist movement in the eighteenth century, the legacy of which the contemporary Church wrestles with. Tim Macquiban Journal of Theological Studies a book that removes a great deal of traditional clutter...it is like seeing Charles Wesley through a window that has been freshly cleaned, so that what was blurred becomes sharp and clear. Lloyd tells the story in its familiar outlines, but with new and telling detail. J. R. Watson, Proceedings of the Wesley Historical Society This is a must read for all who are interested in the Wesleys and the development of 18th century Methodism in England. Methodist History it is one of those few books that says something really new. From henceforth, it will be indispensable to the history of Methodism. Professor J. R. Watson, Journal of the Wesley Historical Society ...well worth a read... John Samuel, Now ...well-written and readable book... Gary Best, Church Times an outstanding contribution ... ask for it in your local library or look out for the paperback, but do not miss it. John Vickers, Methodist Recorder newspaper ...meticulously researched [and] comprehensive... Betty Bookmark1. The Epworth experience; 2. Brothers in arms: the early relationship and shared ministry of John and Charles Wesley; 3. Co-operation, conflict, and controversy during the early years of the Revival; 4. Charles Wesley the paradoxical Anglican; 5. Engagements and marriages; 6. Methodism in the early 1750s; 7. Continuing family quarrels and the Methodist opinion of Charles Wesley; 8. A new phase of Charles Wesley's ministry; 9. Methodism at the crossroads; 10. Charles Wesley: his final years and legacy; 11. Concluding remarks