Wesleyanische Theologie auf dem Weg von Barmherzigkeit zu Solidarität

Abstract

In the Wesleyan traditions, grace is often more powerfully experienced under pressure, in the struggles and pains of everyday life, than on the mountaintops. The means of grace illustrate this, reflected in John Wesley’s often-ignored concern to hold together works of piety and works of mercy, with works of mercy being true means of grace because God is working through them for the transformation of the world. On this background this essay focuses on the Wesleyan emphasis on the works of mercy, arguing that the fullness of a Wesleyan theology of grace can only be explored when we extend the church’s imagination beyond the current ecclesial practices of charity, service, and advocacy.