Living Our Beliefs: The United Methodist Way

by Kenneth L. Carder

You can believe anything and be a Methodist, just so long as you're sincere. Such a misperception has deep historical and cultural roots. Explore a basic explanation of the beliefs and practices of the United Methodist Church as defined in Part II of The Book of Discipline . Uncover a deeper understanding and experience of Christian faith as you embrace the United Methodist way. "Beliefs are to be lived; doctrine is to be practiced," writes Carder in this updated edition of his 1996 bestseller. "The authenticity of beliefs lie in their ability to shape people and communities into the image of Christ and to promote holiness and happiness. ...The important test of the validity of doctrines and beliefs for United Methodists is the kind of character they produce in individuals and communities and the actions they inspire in the world." Living Our Beliefs is essential reading for new members, confirmation classes and small group studies. As one reviewer says, "Bishop Carder invites us to both understand and live our beliefs. With deep understanding of Wesley's teaching, he inspires us to practice what we preach. That is the United Methodist way."

Genres: Christian, Faith, Nonfiction, Christianity, Religion

144 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2003

Reviews

[Will Waller · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent and intellectual manual on United Methodist beliefs. Not so much a history book although there are some forays into Wesleyan history. Utilized this book for a class that I taught in January 2024. Would recommend it highly to lay and clergy alike. It is especially strong in the sections around idolatry.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was given to me by our pastor as part of a new members orientation. I found it to be very well written and informative. It presented some difficult concepts in very understandable language and gave me a new perspective on several issues.

[Dee Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will read this again. There was so much here. Not only does this book clarify the basic beliefs of the Methodist Church, it for me distilled and defined basic beliefs of the Christina church in general. It gave me a lot to think about and helped solidify and clarify and sometimes define things like grace, who we are and who we are to be, who God is and what He expects and why, what is sin and how we are to function in the modern world as Christians. I found myself agreeing with much of what Methodism is while also feeling okay with the things I don't completely agree with. The things I don't agree with are not theological, more church organizational and yet at the same time, I understand the need for the organizational. I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the Methodist church and anyone who is already a Methodist.

[Ifeoma Aduba · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a excellent book for anyone who wants to understand being a United Methodist. Whether you are one or just want to know more, this book is clear and inspiring. In all my years of faith, this is the most thoughtful and intentional I have been about my faith and I credit this book for really making me think and helping me to live my beliefs.

[Bob Buice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written. Makes clear our United Methodist doctrines & beliefs, from the vantage point of living them. Textbook for a course.

[Rev. Val Ohle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am convinced after reading this book that a) it should be required reading with homework, pop quizzes and a final test for all those in the process of certifying for Candidacy in the UMC, b) all current UMC clergy should be required to read it, c) it should be presented as a churchwide/small group study in all UMC churches, and d) the Conferences should prepare for not a massive, but a significant exodus of clergy who are not in agreement with much of anything in this book.

Not an easy read, but a critically important and massively informative read. I never learned this as a parishioner. We just touched on parts of it over a year of Candidacy mentoring and licensing school. I am glad I read it and already working on a plan to present it churchwide.

[Alan Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

a simple telling of a complex subject

Bishop Carder’s explanation of Christian living for both individuals and communities of faith is important. All united Methodists and former United Methodists would especially benefit from this compact and well written book. This is a textbook for certified lay ministers and wonderful read for scoffers and skeptics too. Have you ever wondered what this Christian thing is all about? Give this book an hour of your time.

[Sarah Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this explanation of what beliefs the United Methodist Church holds, and how to put the beliefs into daily practice. I enjoyed the history of why and how practices began, and really enjoyed learning about the views on grace and Communion. If you are a member of the United Methodist faith or interested in learning more about this denomination, it was a great book to learn through.

[M. Sprouse · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very concise book loaded with spiritual discernment and practices. As some point as they mature in faith, all United Methodist should read this book. At 160 pages this book is still not a quick read. To get what was intended from the author one needs to read, reflect and apply. The application is the hard part, but should be the best part.

[Diane Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as part of a class for lay training. It was a comprehensive look at the foundations of Methodist values with in-depth explanations of their background and rationale. I found the book to be thorough and thought-provoking.

[Christy Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderfully Accessible

I am a candidate for Ordained Ministry in the UMC and this book was recommended know the resources offered, questions asked and wisdom shared will help me immensely. It's short, accessible and relevant as a refresher or intro to Methodism.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Textbook for a class.
Carder summarizes the doctrine and beliefs of the United Methodist Church clearly and succinctly. He also offers some history of the movement. Each chapter ends with discussion questions that can be used for personal reflection along with group discussion.

[MaryMargaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s always good to be reminded of the legacies that are left to us by past generations. I loved this book. If you want to be reminded (again or for the first time, 😁) of what makes you a Christian of the United Methodist persuasion, this is the book for you.

[Laird Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

An essential read for anyone trying to figure out what Methodists believe. It is full of hope for the future of the world.

[Gary Gomes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finished reading it as part of my United Methodist Lay Servant class on "Living our Beliefs" but fairly certain I read it before. Good reading for a Methodist.

[Ken · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Sunday School primer on Methodism.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Accessible exploration of theology and practice of United Methodists. Recommend for someone just joining a UMC church or for a membership exploration class. Also great for lifelong attenders who want to go deeper in knowledge of theology. Good discussion questions at the end of each chapter.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource on Methodist beliefs.

[Caroline · Rating 3 out of 5]

Helpful and concise for newbie Methodists.