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Theology

The Wesleyan Quadrilateral

The Book of Discipline, ¶105 — Our Theological Task

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The term "Wesleyan Quadrilateral" was coined by 20th-century scholar Albert Outler to describe John Wesley's method of theological reflection. While Wesley himself never used the term, his approach to understanding God and faith consistently drew upon four sources: Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience.

Scripture holds a primary place among these four — it is not one of four equal sources, but the foundation upon which the others build. Tradition, Reason, and Experience serve as lenses that help us interpret and apply Scripture faithfully.

Scripture

The Holy Bible is the primary source and criterion for Christian doctrine. Through the Holy Scripture, God "weights and corrects" all other sources of understanding. Wesley held Scripture in the highest regard, calling himself "a man of one book" — even as he read voraciously across many disciplines.

Tradition

The witness of the church across the centuries provides a rich inheritance of interpretation, liturgy, and practice. For Wesley, the early church fathers, the ecumenical creeds, and the Reformation writings all contributed to a faithful reading of Scripture. We do not interpret the Bible in isolation from the community of faith that preceded us.

Reason

God gave us minds to think critically and carefully about our faith. Wesley valued rational inquiry and logical argument as tools for understanding Scripture and applying it to the complexities of life. Reason guards against fanaticism and helps us discern truth from error.

Experience

Personal experience of God's grace confirms and enlivens the truths of Scripture. Wesley emphasized the "heart strangely warmed" — the inner assurance of God's love and presence that comes through the work of the Holy Spirit. Our lived experience of faith, worship, and service gives depth and meaning to doctrine.

Source: The Book of Discipline, ¶105 — Our Theological Task

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