Lutherans and Methodists have much in common. Both movements were church reform movements.
Today, March 2, Bishop Abraham Allende reminded the ELCA bishops gathered together that this is the commemoration of John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church. He reminded us that the Wesley brothers sparked an evangelical revival at time of church decline in England. Buildings were falling down and the poor were being neglected. It is well-known that his own conversion took place during a reading of Luther’s commentary on Romans.
Whether you like it or not, read and pray daily. It is for your life; there is no other way… do justice to your own soul; give it time and means to grow. Do not starve yourself any longer.
– John Wesley, in a letter ot a pastor in 1760
John Wesley’s two most frequently preached sermons were
1. “Justification by Faith,” and
2. “The Use of Money”
Wesley on money:
Make all you can…
Save all you can…
Give all you can…
Bishop Michael Rinehart 