Wesleyan Church, with headquarters in Indy, emphasizes relationship with Jesus Christ

Question: It is obvious by its name that the Wesleyan Church has ties to John Wesley. But tell us who he was and how his influence is felt in your church today.

Answer: The Wesleyan Church chose to be named for John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, because of his emphasis on a life of faith, self-discipline and commitment to perfect love. John Wesley spawned a spiritual revival across England and, eventually, the United States that taught that the Christian life should be exemplified in everything we do. Every part of our daily lives should be an expression of the relationship we have with Jesus Christ.

Q: The Wesleyan Church has some historic ties to Methodists. What are those ties, and how are you similar or different from Methodists today?

A: The Wesleyan Church finds its roots in the Methodist movement. When the nation was divided over slavery, the church faced the same division. Some felt it should not be a "church" issue. The Wesleyans believed that the church should take a stand against slavery. It separated from Methodism in 1843 because Methodism had chosen not to take an official position on slavery. Although separate, there is a spirit of cooperation on issues of faith and ministry to our communities.

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Pastor rejects the 'bully pulpit'

Like most pastors who lead thriving evangelical mega-churches, the Reverend Gregory Boyd was asked frequently to give his blessing - and the church's - to conservative political candidates and causes.

The requests came from church members and visitors alike: Would he please announce a rally against gay marriage during services? Would he introduce a politician from the pulpit? Could members set up a table in the lobby promoting their anti-abortion work? Would the church distribute "voters' guides" that all but endorsed Republican candidates?

And with the country at war, please couldn't the church hang a U.S. flag in the sanctuary?

After refusing each time, Boyd finally became fed up, he said.

Before the last presidential election, he preached six sermons called "The Cross and the Sword" in which he said the church should steer clear of politics, give up moralizing on sexual issues, stop claiming the United States as a "Christian nation" and stop glorifying American military campaigns.

"When the church wins the culture wars, it inevitably loses," Boyd preached. "When it conquers the world, it becomes the world.

"When you put your trust in the sword, you lose the cross."

Boyd says he is no liberal. He is opposed to abortion and thinks homosexuality is not God's ideal.

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