The Wesleyan Concept of Grace
The Book of Discipline, ¶102 — Our Doctrinal Heritage
Grace is central to United Methodist theology. John Wesley understood grace not as a single moment but as an ongoing, dynamic relationship between God and humanity. He described three distinct but connected movements of grace that mark the Christian journey.
This understanding sets United Methodists apart from traditions that emphasize a single moment of conversion. For Wesley, God is always at work — before, during, and after our response to the gospel.
Prevenient Grace
Before we are even aware of God, God is at work in our lives. Prevenient grace — the grace that "comes before" — is God's active presence in every human life from birth. It stirs our conscience, creates a longing for something more, and draws us toward God even when we do not yet know the name for what we seek. No one is beyond the reach of prevenient grace.
Justifying Grace
When we respond to God's invitation with repentance and faith, we experience justifying grace — God's forgiveness and acceptance. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are pardoned from sin and restored to a right relationship with God. Wesley described this as the moment of new birth, when we receive the assurance that we are children of God.
Sanctifying Grace
The Christian life does not end at justification — it deepens. Sanctifying grace is God's ongoing work of transformation, shaping us more fully into the image of Christ. Through worship, prayer, study, service, and fellowship (the "means of grace"), we grow in holiness. Wesley believed in the possibility of entire sanctification — a life wholly devoted to love of God and neighbor.
Source: The Book of Discipline, ¶102 — Our Doctrinal Heritage
Related Documents
The Wesleyan Quadrilateral
The Sacrament of Baptism
Membership Vows
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