Frontier Methodist Peter Cartwright recounts in his autobiography a conversation he had with a fellow Methodist preacher. The two of them were being recruited by Baptists to settle in with established congregations and give up the circuit rider life. Cartwright’s associate argued on behalf of the move. Cartwright recorded his reply in his autobiography:
If money, sir, or a good living, had been my prime object in joining a Church, I should never have joined the Methodists; but when I joined them I joined them from a firm conviction, believing them to be the best people in the world; and the longer I live with them, and the more I understand of their doctrine and system of Church government, the more firmly I am settled in mind to abide my choice; and this world has not treasure enough to allure me from the Methodist Church.
Times have indeed changed. No wonder the Methodist Church is declining in the US and thriving in Africa.
Methodist doctrine I approve. The United Methodist “system of Church government”? Not so much. The appointive system? Not at all.
Yes, but what about the fabulous riches you acquire by being a Methodist preacher?
Thanks for sharing this. It is indeed interesting. Do you recommend Cartwright’s biography?
I’ve been enjoying it. It is a good read.
I also recommend George Whitefield’s journal if you can find it. I was fascinated by it when I found it in the library at the St. Paul School of Theology.