Publisher Description

What I purpose in the following papers is to give a plain and distinct account of the steps by which I was led...to embrace the doctrine of Christian perfection.So begins John Wesley's classic work on the central emphasis of his theology. In A Plain Account of Christian Perfection this Anglican priest and founder of Methodism brings to the forefront what he considers the goal of the Christian life-the fullest possible love of God and neighbor. Drawing from several of his earlier writings, Wesley thoughtfully presents his understanding of perfect love or Christian perfection.Although published in many versions, this edition of Wesley's foundational text is annotated to identify Wesley's sources and clarify his citations and allusions. His original notes are also included. A timeless treasure and resource, this pivotal work belongs in every Christian's library.

Author Biography

Paul W. Chilcote is academic dean and professor of historical theology and Wesleyan studies at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio. He has been involved in theological education on three continents. The author of twenty books, including Praying in the Wesleyan Spirit and Recapturing the Wesleys' Vision, Chilcote is a frequent speaker and workshop leader in applied Wesleyan studies, particularly in the areas of spirituality, worship, discipleship, and mission/evangelism. Randy L. Maddox is the William Kellon Quick Professor of Wesleyan and Methodist Studies at the Divinity School, Duke University. He holds a BA from Northwest Nazarene College, an MDiv from Nazarene Theological Seminary, and a PhD in theological studies from Emory University. An ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, Maddox is the institute secreatry of the Oxford Institute of Methodist Theological Studies and associate general editor of the John Wesley Works Editorial Project. In addition to numerous articles he is author of Responsible Grace: John Wesley's Practical Theology and editor of several works, including volume 12 of The Bicentennial Edition of the Works of John Wesley.

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