Abstract
This article will look at methodological parallels between John B. Wesley and Donald A. McGavran. The influence of both men arose during similar social shifts that were accompanied by a perception of ecclesial apathy. Parallels will be demonstrated in McGavran’s principles of 1) conversion as a priority, 2) effective evangelism as a process model, 3) the danger of redemption and lift, 4) the importance of multiplication, and 5) pragmatism in methodology. A final section will look at the legacy of these two men and will suggest how identification can help retain focus on principles rather than on contextually-bound tactics.
Recommended Citation
Whitesel, B. (2015). Church Growth Before McGavran: The Methodological Parallels of John Wesley. Great Commission Research Journal, 6(2), 187-202. Retrieved from https://place.asburyseminary.edu/gcrj/vol6/iss2/3
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