The Methodist Review (Volume 20) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1838. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... THE METHODIST MAGAZINE AND (SMtarterls ftetoieto. EDITED BY S. LUCKEY AND G. COLES. Vol. XX, No. 1. JANUARY, 1838. New Series--Vol. IX, No. 1. Art. I.--WESLEY AN METHODISM IN ENGLAND AND AMERICA NOT CHARGEABLE WITH SCHISM IN SEPARATING FROM THE ENGLISH ESTABLISHMENT. BY REV. CHARLES ELLIOTT, A. M. Continued from page 390, vol. viii. IX. Are Wesleyan Methodists chargeable with schism in separating from the English establishment 1 This question, it will be perceived at once, has no reference, except a relative one, to the Protestant Episcopal Church in this country, as neither the Methodist Episcopal Church nor the Wesleyan Methodists were ever in church fellowship with her. Indeed, as a church, she differs more widely from the English than from the Methodist Church; as her ordination and polity are, in a good degree, presbyterial, and not properly episcopal, in the customary sense of the term. To discuss fully the question proposed above would require much more space than the limits of this Magazine will allow. This is especially so, since a great number of authorities and references would be necessary to present this subject in proper detail. We will be compelled, therefore, to abridge considerably our arguments, and omit the greater part of the authorities, except by mere reference, and this, also, to a great extent. The following brief observations are given in the place of the extended discussion necessary to treat the question in full. I. That a reformation in religion, in the English church and nation, was much needed in the beginning of the last century, when Mr. Wesley commenced his labors, no person duly informed will doubt or question. The state of morals and religion among the people was such as to need immediate reform. This appears to be generally ac...