Written by Lesallan – January 20, 2024
John Wesley’s Experience in Georgia
Written by Lesallan
Ohio Christian University
THE3360 Theology of John Wesley (ONLSP24)
Dr. Steven Gerig
January 20, 2024
John Wesley’s Experience in Georgia
This essay discusses John Wesley’s travels to Georgia in the 18th century as part of his Methodist ministry. His journey was challenging but helped him grow spiritually and find salvation. The essay examines why Wesley chose to travel to Georgia, the difficulties he faced, and how this experience impacted his ministry. The essay argues that Wesley’s time in Georgia was a significant period in his spiritual development rather than a failure.
Wesley traveled to Georgia to spread the gospel and improve himself spiritually. His goal was to convert Native Americans, and he was strongly influenced by the Moravians. Wesley saw his mission as an opportunity to serve God and grow in his own spiritual journey (Collins, 1999).
James Oglethorpe invited John Wesley to Georgia, where he was appointed Christ Church’s rector in Savannah. Wesley saw this as an opportunity to explore a new domain for his ministry and spiritual growth, as Georgia was intended to be a sanctuary for persecuted Protestants and a barrier against Spanish invasion from Florida (Hodges, 2014).
Wesley faced many challenges in Georgia. He struggled with the harsh realities of life on the frontier, conflicts with civil authorities, and his own uncertainties and anxieties. His time there was characterized by “frustration, failure, and humiliation” (Hodges, 2014).
Wesley encountered significant challenges in establishing a connection with the colonists owing to their inadequate education and dissatisfaction with his rigid worship routine.. He also had conflicts with corrupt local magistrates who opposed his views on baptism, marriage, and Sabbath observance. Wesley’s refusal to give communion to unworthy individuals, including the chief magistrate’s niece, who was also the object of his affection, further angered the magistrates (Collins, 1999).
Wesley failed to connect with the Native Americans during his mission. He held a romanticized perception of them and wanted to share the gospel of Christ with them. However, he found that they were challenging to find and untrusting. The outbreak of war between Britain and Spain in 1739 made travel and communication difficult, thwarting Wesley’s efforts (Hodges, 2014).
Wesley’s time in Georgia had a significant impact on his spiritual journey. He recognized the need for a deeper relationship with God and discovered the doctrine of justification by faith. Nevertheless, it was only upon his return to England that he experienced a profound spiritual awakening during a gathering in Aldersgate Street. His heart was “strangely warmed,” leading to newfound peace and joy (Collins, 1999).
Wesley joined the Moravian religious society during his voyage to Georgia. He learned about piety, simplicity, and community from them. The Moravian leaders challenged him to scrutinize his faith and assurance of salvation. Wesley realized he needed to rely on Christ alone for salvation (Hodges, 2014).
Wesley gained experience in Georgia, becoming a leader in the Methodist revival movement. His setbacks taught him to adjust to cultures, collaborate with others, and prioritize holiness. He introduced techniques like field preaching, class meetings, and circuit riding. Wesley’s time in Georgia also inspired him to produce his first book, A Collection of Psalms and Hymns, which became the first Anglican hymnal in America (Collins, 1999).
Wesley’s trip to Georgia was a significant moment in his life and ministry. It allowed him to understand his strengths, weaknesses, aspirations, and fears. This experience helped him prepare for his later position as a leader in the Methodist revival movement, which transformed the religious landscape of Britain and beyond. It was a transformative stage in his personal and professional growth.
References:
Collins, K. J. (1999). A Real Christian: The Life of John Wesley. Abingdon Press.
Hodges, S. (2014, July 22). Re-evaluating John Wesley’s time in Georgia. United Methodist News Service. https://www.umnews.org/en/news/re-evaluating-john-wesleys-time-in-georgia
