Why I Am a United Methodist

by William H. Willimon

In seven chapters, Willimon examines United Methodism and the ways it has made and continues to make a difference in his life. In an inspiring and enlightening way, he writes of his pride in being part of a church that has grown from one man's experience to a worldwide movement covering the globe with its message. A learning guide for groups and individuals is included.

Chapter
Because Religion Is of the Heart Because the Bible Is Our Book Because Religion Is Practical Because Christians Are to Witness Because Christians Are to Grow Because Religion Is Not a Private Affair

128 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1990

About the author

The Reverend Dr. William H. Willimon is Professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry at the Divinity School, Duke University. He served eight years as Bishop of the North Alabama Conference of The United Methodist Church, where he led the 157,000 Methodists and 792 pastors in North Alabama. For twenty years prior to the episcopacy, he was Dean of the Chapel and Professor of Christian Ministry at Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.

Reviews

[Libby · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one took me awhile because I kept putting it down. I appreciate Willimon's honest, but heartfelt assessment, that the main reason he is Methodist is because that is the church he was raised and baptized in (like me). I think he also, however, lays out a pretty good picture of the United Methodist Church, what it is Methodists contribute to the church universal, and why someone might want to consider joining the UMC. I do wonder what would be different about the book, if anything, if it were written today.

[JohnClellan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having left the Methodist ministry a few years ago, I read this while pondering returning the the church. I don’t think I learned anything new, but it was a good refresher. Two quotes:

Wesley called his theology, as embodied in his hymns and sermons, "practical divinity"—that is, thoughts about God which are meant to be put into practice.

(Great past leaders of the church, Methodists and otherwise) are united by one factor: all of them were troublemakers, disturbers of the peaceful status quo.

[Linda Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good history on the founding of the United Methodist Church and background on the founding father, John Wesley.

[Lori Schwilling · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am looking forward to sharing this in a small group study with new members of the United Methodist Church.

[Evableeker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful for understanding my new church.