The great preacher and founder of the Methodist movement…
““The great preacher and founder of the Methodist movement, John Wesley (1703-1791), was once approached by a man who came to him in the grip of unbelief. "All is dark; my thoughts are lost," the man said to Wesley, "but I hear that you preach to a great number of people every night and morning. Pray, what would you do with them? Whither would you lead them? What religion do you preach? What is it good for?" Wesley gave this answer to those questions: You ask, what would I do with them? I would make them virtuous and happy, easy in themselves, and useful to others. Whither would I lead them? To heaven, to God the judge, the lover of all, and to Jesus the mediator of the New Covenant. What religion do I preach? The religion of love. The law of kindness brought to light by the gospel. What is this good for? To make all who receive it enjoy God and themselves, to make them like God, lovers of all, contented in their lives, and crying out at their death, in calm assurance, "O grave where is thy victory! Thanks be to God, who giveth me victory, through my Lord Jesus Christ.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Wesley says the purpose of religion is to cultivate virtue, happiness, and usefulness, guiding people to heaven through love and kindness
In simple terms: Religion aims to make people virtuous, happy, and useful
Key Takeaway
Promote love, kindness, and personal growth
Themes
virtue
happiness
service
spirituality
love
Mood
hopeful
inspirational
reflective
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- church teaching
- personal counseling
- community outreach
- ethical education
Key Concepts
Christian ethics
theology of love
practical piety
Questions to Reflect On
- How can love be practiced in daily life?
- What obstacles hinder kindness in society?
A Different Perspective
May overlook systemic issues that also affect well‑being