In this episode, we talk with Dr. Melanie Dobson about the practice of Group Spiritual Direction and its role in communal discernment. She shares her journey to spiritual direction, the need for belonging in today's culture, and the challenges of implementing communal discernment in churches.

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We recorded a live episode!

Participants in the 2025 John Wesley Fellows Christmas Conference at Duke University joined us for a conversation that explores the relevance of Wesleyan theology in the 21st century and the importance of engaging with public theology. We delve into the concept of revival and the need for theological engagement, and Joy talks about the importance of art and music in how we worship.

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In the episode, we talk with Dr. Steve Rankin and dive into the reasons he stayed in the United Methodist Church. Our hosts also explore the impact of belonging, behavior, and belief on church affiliation as well as the challenges and complexities of church affiliation in a 21st century "vibes" culture.

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In this week's episode, we're discussing a Wesleyan social witness and trying to get beyond theory to what loving our neighbors looks like in the midst of a polarized world. Plus, Lane talks with Dr. Esther Chung-Kim about the Protestant Reformation, how Wesley fits into that history, and how to talk to your kids in a distracted world. Then, our hosts offer their own "confessions" for ways they've been faithful...and sometimes fallen...in their own economic lives.

We want to hear from you. Send comments or questions to [email protected].

In this extended interview conversation, we dive into the themes of vulnerability in friendship and reimagining church and politics.

Read Justin and Greg's letters at: https://epistlesfrombabylon.substack.com/

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What is essential for a Wesleyan expression of the Christian church? Rob, Joy, and Lane discuss what they think are the nonnegotiable's. Then Lane talks with Dr. Sondra Wheeler, Emerita Professor from Wesley Theological Seminary. Finally, we try to answer a listener question.

If you have a question you'd like us to discuss, email us at: [email protected]

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Wesleyan Theology and Ethics
• 04:57 The Wesleyan Tradition and Scripture Engagement
• 10:09 The Wesleyan Tradition and Community
• 15:01 The Wesleyan Movement and Transformational Action
• 20:08 The Wesleyan Tradition and the Intersection of Faith and Works
• 29:15 The Essence of Wesleyan Theology w/ Dr. Sondra Wheeler
• 01:24:18 Ask Us Anything: Variety in Wesleyan Churches

What is a Wesleyan option and why does the church need it? In this episode, we introduce our new podcast! And we talk to Dr. Doug Strong about the strengths and potential and a Wesleyan option. Stick around as we also give you "signals" and "noises" from the culture.

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Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Wesleyan Theology
• 05:06 The Orienting Concern of Wesleyan Theology
• 10:37 The Cultural Relevance of Wesleyan Theology
• 16:13 Implementing Wesleyan Theology in Churches
• 22:22 The Medicine of Life
• 28:47 Introduction of Dr. Doug Strong
• 48:10 Wrapping Up and Call to Action

Introducing Wesleyan Option. Join us for weekly conversations about theology, the church, and culture, all from a Wesleyan perspective.