Methodism or the Methodist movement is a group of historically related denominations of Protestant Christianity. It originated in 18th century Britain, and thanks to vigorous missionary activity spread throughout the British Empire, the United States, and beyond. Originally it appealed especially to workers, poor farmers, and slaves. Theologically it emphasize that all people can be saved by receiving Jesus Christ as Lord a Saviour, and lay stress on the Bible as the sole source of authority in matters of faith) in liturgy. By 2006 it claimed some 75 million members worldwide.
The Methodist revival was started by a group of men including John Wesley ® within the Church of England in the 18th century, focused on Bible study, and a methodical approach to scriptures and Christian living. The term "Methodist" was a pejorative college nickname that was given to a small society of students at Oxford, who met together between 1729 and 1735 for the purpose of mutual improvement. They were accustomed to communicate every week, to fast regularly and to abstain from most forms of amusement and luxury. They also frequently visited poor and sick persons and prisoners in the jail.
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