Indeed, the theology of Wesley was much more consistent – as was that
of William Booth and the Holiness Movements that followed. Would,
however, that they had evolved, as did both John Wesley in his later
life, and then the Booth family –particularly the son Bramwell – in both
practising and advocating a vegetarian life style!
It’s a strange kind of ‘sinless perfection’ or ‘second work of grace’
theology which looks upon sanctity as avoiding all alcoholic drink, a
flutter on the pools, of entering a dance hall – or as in the past –
even entering a cinema. Not to mention the evil seduction of a mini
skirt, plus rouge and lipstick
Yes, all such ‘evils’ conveniently censured and frowned upon - while
eating in to battery eggs and chickens without a qualm of conscience!
Yes, I think Christ would say, both of Roman and Reformed theologians
and the denominations they have created, words to this effect: “Woe to
you: scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You pick out moral gnats as you
swallow moral camels whole. By your traditions you make the word of God
of no effect. Yes, you err greatly because you know neither the extent
of the love of God or the true message of my Gospel.”.
Go on to Silkstone Village,
Yorkshire, and Its Churchyard Memorial
Return to Summer 2005 Issue