A Theology of Love: The Dynamic of Wesleyanism

by Mildred Bangs Wynkoop

In this seminal work on holiness Mildred Wynkoop brought to the forefront the understanding that holiness is relational. Here she explains that loving God and loving neighbor find articulate expression in the holy life--a life oriented in dynamic and loving relationship toward God that in turn reaches out and embraces others. A Theology of Love reinvigorated for new generations the meaning of John Wesley's concept of perfect love. Since its publication, A Theology of Love has influenced countless scholars, pastors, teachers, and students. Now this new edition of the monumental work includes the original text plus a previously unpublished chapter. This enhanced version is the ideal addition to anyone desiring a deeper grasp of the theological insights and contributions of this exceptional scholar, and a provocative exercise in rethinking John Wesley's concept of holiness.

Genres: Theology, Religion, Christianity, Nonfiction, Church

414 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 1972

Reviews

[Huw]

If only the Wesleyan took her seriously

[Rick Lee Lee James]

Plain and simple, this is an essential read on the topic of holiness. I can’t believe I waited so long to read it in its entirety. So many myths and misconceptions are clear up with amazing insight and academic excellence. Probably a good book to revisit annually.

[Quincy Wheeler]

A classic of Wesleyan theology

[Bethany]

#gonazarenego

[Lee]

A profound wrestling with the Wesleyan doctrine of holiness. Wynkoop sees it most basically as a perpetual dependence on the grace of God and an ever-increasing disposition to love.

[Lynn]

Prof. Wynkoop is concerned about relationships, not doctrines. Her idea is that holiness is a lifestyle that takes the follower on an increasingly challenging journey as one more and more understands what it means to love Christ and our fellow humans. I grew up in the Church of the Nazarene, but I left it because I found that most of the preaching drew lines about who was in and who was out of the fold. I found a fellowship that drew no lines and challenged us to love one another "every single other." So I believe that I have found a fellowship nearer to Wynkoop's (and if her claims are correct as I believe they are) the life and teaching of Jesus.

I have found a place where I can practice the life that Wesley urged us to practice, even though it is not, strictly speaking, a "Wesleyan church." As a matter of fact, we have no doctrines in the United Church of Christ. We covenant with each other to live a life of love, so perhaps what we have is a "Theology of Love."

[Todd Brown]

OK, I read this over and over, but I finished it again and wanted to put it here as 'Read'. It so completely tells the story of our relationship with God. I come to tears each time I read it. I literally say 'Amen' out loud.

The idea that our relationship with the very real God is static is ludicrous. Wynkoop takes this concept and fleshes I out completely. When we say that we are complete in Christ and know that we change and grow everyday then we have an integrity problem unless we grasp that our completeness is Christ. This relationship is dynamic and a life long journey.

[Jon]

Great book on Wesley's theology of love. Contains many reminders of how easy it is to misinterpret his beliefs. Good read!

[David Campton]

A great analysis of love as the key dynamic in Wesleyan theology and spirituality