Kitchen Table Theology
Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!
Kitchen Table Theology
250 The Wesleyan Church Overview | Polity, Doctrine, and Distinctives
With roots in 18th-century revivalism and a legacy of social action, the Wesleyan Church continues to model how deep theology fuels everyday ministry.
This is a milestone 250th episode! We wrap up the history of the Wesleyan Church. We discuss how a revival in the 1700s gave birth to a denomination known for social reform, global expansion, and a theology that empowers both clergy and laity. They explore what makes the Wesleyan Church distinct, how it’s structured, and what you might experience if you walked into a Wesleyan church today.
🎉 If you missed the interview with Dr. Bob Black, catch Episodes 248 and 249 for a deeper dive into Wesleyan history and theology.
Here’s What We Discussed:
02:48 A Quick History of the Wesleyan Church
From John Wesley’s Aldersgate conversion in 1738 to the 1968 merger that created today’s denomination, Wesleyans trace their roots through revival and reform.
05:53 Global Reach & Social Reform
Now in 99 countries, the Wesleyan Church has long championed social causes—from the Underground Railroad to ordaining the first woman pastor in U.S. history.
06:49 What You’ll Find in a Wesleyan Church Today
While worship styles may vary—traditional or modern—theology remains rooted in grace, holiness, and the empowerment of every believer.
08:53 Laity & Leadership
Wesleyans have always believed in lay involvement. From early days, the church gave significant leadership roles to non-clergy members.
10:48 How the Wesleyan Church Is Organized
More structured than independent churches but less hierarchical than others, Wesleyans operate through local boards, district superintendents, and a national office.
14:10 Distinctives That Set Them Apart
From multiple modes of baptism to the doctrine of entire sanctification, the Wesleyan Church holds unique views on salvation, maturity, and spiritual growth.
“They’ve always had a compassionate action-type of corporate heart—to reach people who were not being reached by anyone else.” — Pastor Jeff Cranston
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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!