Perhaps you’ve noticed the simple yet profound name: Free Methodist Church. It speaks volumes about its origins and enduring values. This isn’t just another church. It is a testament to a movement born from conviction.
The Free Methodist Church emerged from the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1860. Its founders, led by Benjamin Titus Roberts, sought a return to authentic Wesleyan Methodism. Roberts and his followers felt excluded for advocating what they believed were the true doctrines. These doctrines included practices of early Methodism. The establishment of the Free Methodist Church occurred in Pekin, New York.
Why “Free”? The name encapsulates several core principles. It stood against slavery. The church offered free pews for all, unlike the common practice of renting or selling them. “Free” also meant freedom of worship in the Holy Spirit. This stood in contrast to stifling formality. The Free Methodist Church also promoted freedom from secret societies. It desired full loyalty to Christ. Finally, it championed freedom from ecclesiastical abuse. It invited members to experience entire sanctification through faith.
One pivotal figure in the Free Methodist Church’s history is B. T. Roberts. He started a monthly journal, The Earnest Christian. This publication helped spread the church’s message. Later, in 1868, The Free Methodist, now Light & Life, was established. In 1886, a publishing house emerged. Its purpose was to produce books and Sunday school materials. Roberts’ dedication had a lasting impact.
In 1910, a significant event took place at the Methodist Church’s General Conference. The church acknowledged the wrong done to Roberts. They restored his credentials to his son. This act symbolized reconciliation. It also highlighted the importance of Roberts’ work.
The Free Methodist Church’s commitment to its principles has sometimes led to divisions. Some Holiness Conservatives left to form other churches. Despite these separations, the Free Methodist Church continued to grow. It adapted while staying true to its core beliefs.
Today, the Free Methodist Church has a global presence. It has over 1.5 million members worldwide. The Free Methodist Church World Ministries Center is in Indianapolis, Indiana. The church has a significant presence in East Central Africa.
The Free Methodist Church embraces a set of historic freedoms. These include freedom for all races to worship together in unity. It includes freedom for the poor to be treated with dignity. It also includes freedom for women and men to use their gifts equally. Laity can be fairly represented in governing bodies. The church encourages freedom from alliances that compromise allegiance to Jesus. It supports Spirit-led worship. Ultimately, it seeks freedom from sin through surrender to God.
The Free Methodist Church maintains connections to educational institutions. These include Roberts Wesleyan University and Seattle Pacific University. These institutions reflect the church’s commitment to education. They also reinforce its values.
Light & Life Communications is the publishing arm of the Free Methodist Church. It produces Light & Life Magazine. This magazine explores Christian faith. It offers resources for discussing important issues.
The Free Methodist Church continues to evolve. It responds to modern challenges while holding fast to its Wesleyan-Arminian roots. It remains committed to its mission. The Free Methodist Church seeks to love God, love people, and make disciples. Its history is a testament to faith, freedom, and a desire to live out authentic Christian principles. It is not just a building. It is a community. It is a journey. It is a living legacy.