Calvinistic Methodists

Like their Wesleyan Methodist counterparts, Calvinistic Methodists engage in Bible study, extemporaneous prayer, self-examination, and emphasize preaching. The sermon is the centre of Calvinistic Methodist worship. Unlike other Reformed Churches, Calvinistic Methodists teach the Methodist doctrine of the New Birth—a personal experience of salvation. George Whitefield experienced an evangelical conversion in 1735 and his sermon The Nature and Necessity of our New Birth in Christ Jesus in Order to Salvation (1737) was widely read. Calvinistic Methodists who write about their salvation do so "within the framework of the Calvinist ordo salutis—this 'order of salvation' of ruin, redemption and restoration." However, the distinctive doctrine that characterizes Wesleyan Methodism—entire sanctification—is not upheld by Calvinistic Methodists; while both Wesleyan Methodists and Calvinistic Methodists teach a growth in grace, Calvinistic Methodists do not believe that believers can be entirely sanctified in this life. Calvinistic Methodists teach believers should "expect the Christian life to be characterised by a gradual process of conquestion over indwelling sin and training in the habits of practical godliness." Tempation is addressed through participation in the means of grace. Calvinistic Methodists teach that "one who had been justified by faith could have the inner, personal assurance of their acceptance with God through the witness of the Spirit." In contrast, "Cavin believed the inner testimony of the Holy Spirit confirmed the authority of Scripture instead of confirming inwardly one's assurance of salvation; although Calvin believed the Spirit was the agent who joined the believer to Christ."