Why Free? Why Free Methodist?
Historically, the Free Methodist Church was organized at Pekin, New York, August 23rd, 1860. The first bishop of the new church was Benjamin Titus (B.T.) Roberts. He was a champion for equal rights (especially for women), writer, publisher, Christian educator, and holiness preacher. The influence of his character and ministry continue today.
In 1860, the “free” in Free Methodist emphasized certain basic freedoms found in the scriptures.
The following is a 21st century articulation of our historic freedoms:
Freedom of all races to worship together in unity.
Freedom for the poor to be treated with dignity in the church and with justice in the world.
Freedom for women and men to be treated respectfully and use their gifts equally in the church, in the home, and in the world.
Freedom for laity to be fairly represented in the governing bodies of the church.
Freedom from spiritual, political, social, or conceptual alliances that compromise or subvert the exclusive allegiance we profess to Jesus Christ.
Freedom to engage in worship that is moved and inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Freedom from sin’s power through full surrender to God.
The biblical principles on which these freedoms are based are as important today as ever. We are “Methodists,” believing in a disciplined, simple lifestyle. Our witness to the world is through an enthusiastic and methodical following of Jesus.
