The Asbury Journal

Article Title

Ecclesia Semper Sanctificanda: Historic Models of Catechesis and the Cultivation of Social Holiness

Authors

Jonathan A. Powers, Asbury Theological Seminary

Abstract

This study aims to show how the maintenance of holy life and love in the church requires intentional and continual cultivation by the church. If the church is to be continually sanctified then it must intentionally invest in the sanctification of its members. The article examines three historic examples of catechesis in order to exhibit models whereby the church has taken seriously the task of forming disciples who display holiness of heart and life. This article looks at the Didache and On the Apostolic Tradition, as well a John Wesley's use of societies, class meetings, and band meetings to encourage sanctification within the catechesis process. Finally, this paper offers a few thoughts on the critical need for the implementation of similar catechetical models in the church today. This paper was originally presented at a Social Holiness Colloquium held from April 26-27, 2018 at Asbury Theological Seminary.

DOI

10.7252/Journal.01.2019S.05

Recommended Citation

Powers, Jonathan A. (2019) "Ecclesia Semper Sanctificanda: Historic Models of Catechesis and the Cultivation of Social Holiness," The Asbury Journal: Vol. 74: No. 1, p. 85-107.
Available at: https://place.asburyseminary.edu/asburyjournal/vol74/iss1/6