In the Shadow of Aldersgate: An Introduction to the Heritage and Faith of the Wesleyan Tradition

John Wesley (1703-91) was a unique character in history who left a disproportionately large imprint on the world. That imprint was a contagious passion for what he called real Christianity--the Good News of saving grace and scriptural holiness. This book examines Wesleys life and faith in order to better understand what it means to be a present-day participant in that legacy. The book begins with the story of Wesleys search for an authentic Christian experience. His steps are traced from his early days of struggle through his conversion at Aldersgate to his long years of remarkable ministry. The second part of the book outlines the basic Wesleyan understandings of sin grace redemption new birth sanctification and perfection. A concluding exploration of some practical implications of the Wesleyan doctrine of holiness is found in the third part. This book celebrates the Wesleyan tradition especially that branch known as the Holiness Movement. It is however not entirely uncritical. It seeks to provide an honest and sympathetic consideration of the heritage and faith of Wesleys lasting imprint. Dan Burnetts new book In the Shadow of Aldersgate has captured the person of John Wesley and the theological movement that followed him with clarity and freshness. . . . This doctrinal overview refers to other spiritual traditions with respect and grace but assists the reader to understand Wesleyanism in respect to other faith perspectives. [It] is a gift to those who want to understand historic Wesleyan doctrine. --Dr. Don Bray General Director Global Partners The Wesleyan Church For anyone interested in a concise biography of John Wesley and an excellent summary of his doctrine of salvation one could not go wrong in choosing In the Shadow of Aldersgate. I certainly intend to use it as a text in my course The Life and Theology of John Wesley. Mark L. Weeter Professor Division of Religion and Philosophy Oklahoma Wesleyan University In the Shadow of Aldersgate . . . moves from John Wesleys life to the thought and potential of the tradition that flows from that life. . . . Besides aiding the Wesleyan tradition in understanding its inaugural springs of authentic Christianity this book will be an introductory source to those in the wider Christian community . . . . The evangelical spirit of the writer is evident throughout but this posture does not diminish the books use for an ecumenical audience. Richard K. Eckley Professor of Theology Houghton College Daniel L. Burnett has worked in various capacities of ministry and theological education in both the USA and England. A graduate of Nazarene Theological Seminary (M.Div. D.Min.) he now serves as pastor of Central Wesleyan Church in Anderson Indiana.