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Although a difference in opinions or modes of worship may prevent an entire external union; yet need it prevent our union in affection? Though we cannot think alike, may we not Love alike? May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion? Without all doubt we may. Herein all the children of God may unite, notwithstanding these smaller differences. These remaining as they are, they may forwand one another in Love and good works.

My only question at present is this: "Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart?" First thing: Is thy heart right with God? Dost thou believe in the Lord Jesus Christ? Do you show your Love by your works? If thou art thus minded, may every Christian say, yea, if thou are but sincerely desirous of it and following on till thou attain, then 'thy heart is right, as my heart is with thy heart."

"If it be, give me thy hand," I do not mean, "Be of my opinion," You need not: I do not expect or desire it. Neither do I mean, "I will be of your opinion," I cannot. I do not mean, "Embrace my modes of Worship;" or "I will embrace yours.' Hold fast that which you believe is most acceptable to God and I will do the same.

I mean, first, love me with a very tender affection, as a friend that is closer than a brother; as a brother in Christ, a fellow-citizen of the New Jerusalem, a fellow-soldier engaged in the same warfare, under the same Captain of our salvation. Love me as a companion in the kingdom and patience of Jesus and a joint heir of his glory.

Secondly, commend me to God in all thy prayers; wrestle with him on my behalf, that he would speedily correct what he sees amiss and supply what is wanting in me,

Thirdly, provoke me to love and to good works. Yea, 'smite me friendly, and reprove me, " whereinsoever I appear to thee to be doing rather my own will than the will of Him that sent me.

Lastly, Love me not in word only, but in deed and in truth. So far as in conscience thou canst, (retaining still thy own opinions and thy own manner of worshipping God), join with me in the work of God; and let us go on hand in hand.

Excerpts from Catholic Spirit
Wesley's 52 Sermons



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		"The Catholic Spirit Excerpt from a sermon by John Wesley

		Although a difference in opinions or modes of worship may prevent an entire external union; yet need it prevent our union in affection? Though we cannot think alike, may we not Love alike? May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion? Without all doubt we may. Herein all the children of God may unite, notwithstanding these smaller differences. These remaining as they are, they may forwand one another in Love and good works. My only question at present is this: "Is thine heart right, as my heart is with thy heart?" First thing: Is thy heart right with God? Dost thou believe in the Lord Jesus Christ? Do you show your Love by your works? If thou art thus minded, may every Christian say, yea, if thou are but sincerely desirous of it and following on till thou attain, then 'thy heart is right, as my heart is with thy heart." "If it be, give me thy hand," I do not mean, "Be of my opinion," You need not: I do not expect or desire it. Neither do I mean, "I will be of your opinion," I cannot. I do not mean, "Embrace my modes of Worship;" or "I will embrace yours.' Hold fast that which you believe is most acceptable to God and I will do the same. I mean, first, love me with a very tender affection, as a friend that is closer than a brother; as a brother in Christ, a fellow-citizen of the New Jerusalem, a fellow-soldier engaged in the same warfare, under the same Captain of our salvation. Love me as a companion in the kingdom and patience of Jesus and a joint heir of his glory. Secondly, commend me to God in all thy prayers; wrestle with him on my behalf, that he would speedily correct what he sees amiss and supply what is wanting in me, Thirdly, provoke me to love and to good works. Yea, 'smite me friendly, and reprove me, " whereinsoever I appear to thee to be doing rather my own will than the will of Him that sent me. Lastly, Love me not in word only, but in deed and in truth. So far as in conscience thou canst, (retaining still thy own opinions and thy own manner of worshipping God), join with me in the work of God; and let us go on hand in hand. Excerpts from Catholic Spirit Wesley's 52 Sermons