A Wesleyan-Armenian

What It Means to Be Wesleyan-Arminian in the Holiness Tradition?

To be Wesleyan-Arminian in the Holiness tradition is to embrace a theological identity shaped by the legacy of two influential thinkers—Jacobus Arminius and John Wesley—whose teachings emphasize God's grace, human freedom, and the call to live a holy life. This tradition represents a distinctive stream within evangelical Christianity, one that values both doctrinal depth and experiential transformation.

Jacobus Arminius (1560–1609), a Dutch theologian, challenged the prevailing Calvinism of his day by teaching that salvation is available to all people, not just a predetermined elect. Arminius emphasized prevenient grace—God’s grace that goes before and enables human response—thus upholding both divine sovereignty and human responsibility. He rejected the idea of unconditional election and irresistible grace, affirming instead that individuals have the genuine freedom to accept or reject God's offer of salvation. Arminius's theology laid the groundwork for a more hopeful and inclusive view of redemption.

Building on this foundation, John Wesley (1703–1791), the founder of Methodism, further shaped what would become the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition. While fully embracing Arminius’s views on free will and universal atonement, Wesley introduced a profound focus on sanctification and Christian perfection. He believed that salvation was not just about being forgiven but about being made holy. For Wesley, the Christian journey included a second work of grace—often called entire sanctification—in which the heart is cleansed from inbred sin and filled with perfect love for God and neighbor. This experience, made possible by the Holy Spirit, enables believers to live in victory over sin and grow in grace.

The Holiness movement, which began in the 19th century, was a revival of Wesley's message on sanctification. Leaders within this movement sought to recover the dynamic spiritual power and ethical purity that Wesley described. Out of this movement arose several denominations committed to these ideals, including the Church of the Nazarene, the Wesleyan Church, the Free Methodist Church, and the Church of God (Holiness). These churches continue to teach that salvation is both a personal and transformational experience, emphasizing not just initial conversion but also the pursuit of a sanctified life.

The Church of God (Holiness), in particular, embodies this tradition through its commitment to practical holiness, evangelism, and separation from worldliness. Founded in the late 19th century, it continues to emphasize the second work of grace and the call to holy living, consistent with the teachings of Arminius and Wesley.

Being Wesleyan-Arminian in the Holiness tradition means affirming a theology that is both grace-filled and discipleship-driven. It celebrates the availability of salvation to all, the power of God’s grace to transform lives, and the possibility of living a holy life through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. It is a tradition that calls believers not only to believe in Christ but to become like Christ—walking in love, humility, and holiness in every area of life.