7.28.24 WHO WE ARE: "In Context” - Our Scriptural Process
Acts 11:1-18, Matthew 22:34-40
Dear Trinity Family & Friends:
As we continue our sermon series “Who We Are,” we come to a very distinctive aspect of our identity as United Methodists: our scriptural process. This week, using Acts 11:1-18 (CEB) and Matthew 22:34-40 (CEB) as our guide, we will explore together how we as United Methodists approach scripture and why we approach it the way we do.
As United Methodists, we believe the Holy Spirit continually guides God’s people into deeper understanding and interpretation of God’s word. As we faithfully and fervently study the scriptures, the Holy Spirit uses our collective tradition, experience, and reason to lead us closer to God’s Truth. This approach of our Methodist heritage has come to be known as the Wesleyan Quadrilateral.
For United Methodists, Scripture is considered the primary source and standard for Christian doctrine. Tradition considers the development and growth of the faith through past centuries and in many nations and cultures. Experience is the individual's understanding and appropriating of the faith in the light of his or her own life. Through reason, the individual Christian brings to bear on the Christian faith discerning and cogent thought. These four elements taken together bring the individual Christian to a mature and fulfilling understanding of the Christian faith and the required response of worship and service.
As you prepare for Sunday worship, read Acts 11:1-18 and consider the following questions:
- What tradition and interpretation of the Law (scripture) is called into question within this passage?
- What experience does Peter have that changes his understanding?
- How do the leaders of the early church respond to Peter’s testimony about the movement of the Holy Spirit?
- Where do you see the Wesleyan Quadrilateral at work in this passage?
As we reflect on these passages and the distinctive aspects of our United Methodist identity, let's embrace the journey of discovery and growth the Holy Spirit invites us into. May our study and contemplation deepen our faith, enrich our understanding, and inspire us to live out God’s Truth in our daily lives.
I look forward to worshiping with you this Sunday at 9 am Traditional or 10:30 am Contemporary. See you there!
Blessings,
Pastor Carrie