Living Our United Methodist Beliefs Learning Leading

You can believe anything and be a Methodist, just so long as you're sincere. Such a misperception has deep historical and cultural roots. Explore a basic explanation of the beliefs and practices of the United Methodist Church as defined in Part II of The Book of Discipline. Uncover a deeper understanding and experience of Christian faith as you embrace the United Methodist way. "Beliefs are to be lived; doctrine is to be practiced," writes Carder in this updated edition of his 1996 bestseller. "The authenticity of beliefs lie in their ability to shape people and communities into the image of Christ and to promote holiness and happiness. …The important test of the validity of doctrines and beliefs for United Methodists is the kind of character they produce in individuals and communities and the actions they inspire in the world." Living Our Beliefs is essential reading for new members, confirmation classes and small group studies. As one reviewer says, "Bishop Carder invites us to both understand and live our beliefs. With deep understanding of Wesley's teaching, he inspires us to practice what we preach. That is the United Methodist way." The Leader's Guide for this course, Living Our United Methodist Beliefs, by George Hovaness Donigan may be purchased here.

What beliefs set United Methodists apart from other denominations? How has Methodism changed since its beginning in the 18th century? Living Our United Methodist Beliefs is the Leader's Guide for a course that will help participants better understand United Methodist beliefs and history. It is ideal for a new members class or an adult confirmation class. Use the Leader's Guide with these companion components: Living Our Beliefs: The United Methodist Way by Kenneth L. Carder A Brief History of The United Methodist Church (scroll down the page for pdf download) In this course participants will: discover the relationship of doctrine to the missional movement of Methodism and its theological influence on the practical structure and disciplines of early Methodists learn about the formation of Methodist denominations as an important part of the history of The United Methodist Church explore the Wesleyan understanding of grace, the means of grace, and how practicing spiritual disciplines leads to holiness of heart and life.

Deepen your understanding of core Methodist beliefs.

This brief introduction spells out the major beliefs of the United Methodist Church in a clear, nontechnical style. William Willimon, the beloved United Methodist author, preacher, teacher, and bishop, discusses the great theological themes that United Methodists share in common with all Christians as well as the particular accents and emphases that characterize United Methodist understandings of Christian doctrines. In his engaging style, Willimon opens the door for further study, challenging the reader to move toward a continuing reflection on their faith. This guide will be of great value to those who are beginning their study of United Methodist beliefs as well as those who have long been in the church and want a helpful way to refresh their understandings of the distinctiveness of United Methodist doctrine.

Pastors Andy and Sally Langford take a unique approach in this six-session study by looking at how United Methodists claim and live their faith as individuals and as a denomination. Through the study, you will gain insight into the history of The United Methodist Church, its beliefs and faith practices. Living as United Methodist Christians is ideal for small groups, new member classes, and disciple training classes and includes: An introduction that sets the stage for exploring the belief and practices of United Methodist Christians Six chapters that will help learners hear and claim for themselves the Christian story, particular emphases and beliefs of United Methodists, and ways to live as a United Methodist Christian Leader and learner helps such as reflection questions placed near main text material to which they refer. These helps will stimulate discussion about the reflections or insights participants gain from the material

A resource for both newcomers to the United Methodist Church and those who have been members for decades, Our Membership Vows is a wonderful reflection on the vows each member takes upon joining the church. Members make covenant to uphold the vows, and each one is discussed in this easy-to-read booklet. A great gift idea for churches to give to new members.

Now completely revised, this discussion of the basic beliefs of The United Methodist Church is written especially for laypersons and expresses in simple language what the people called United Methodists believe and how they interpret the Bible. Includes a Leader's Guide.

Deepen your faith and enrich your life through this study of core Methodist beliefs. Written by popular seminary teachers, this book will connect you to the life and ministry of John Wesley, demonstrating relevance for the lives of Christians today as it offers an introductory examination of each. In easy-to-understand language, each chapter is divided into five sections: 1. A Wesleyan Faith: an account of the basic ideas under discussion, understood in light of some of John Wesley’s insights; 2. A Lived Faith: discussion of the practical, everyday implications for Christian living; 3. A Deeper Faith: gets into some of the more difficult ideas of Christian thinking; 4. The Catechism: shorthand way of learning the basics of Wesleyan Christianity; and 5. In Your Own Words: reflection questions that will help you take the name of Jesus with you.

Pastors Andy and Sally Langford take a unique approach in this six-session study by looking at how United Methodists claim and live their faith as individuals and as a denomination. Through the study, you will gain insight into The United Methodist Church, its beliefs and faith practices. Living as United Methodist Christians is ideal for small groups, new member classes, and disciple training classes and includes: An introduction that sets the stage for exploring the belief and practices of United Methodist Christians Six chapters that will help learners hear and claim for themselves the Christian story, particular emphases and beliefs of United Methodists, and ways to live as a United Methodist Christian Leader and learner helps such as reflection questions placed near main text material to which they refer. These helps will stimulate discussion about the reflections or insights participants gain from the material