Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • The original Methodist Church: Refers specifically to the initial organized body of the Methodist movement founded by John Wesley and his associates in the 18th century, which later became part of the wider Methodist denomination.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The Wesleyan Methodists held their first conference in 1744. (The original Methodist Church held its first conference in 1744.)
  • Her family has been part of the Wesleyan Methodists for generations. (Her family has been part of the original Methodist Church for generations.)

Advanced Usage

• Historical reference: The term is often used in a historical context to distinguish the early, original organization from subsequent Methodist branches.
  • The theology of the Wesleyan Methodists emphasized personal faith and social holiness. (The theology of the original Methodist Church emphasized personal faith and social holiness.)

Variants and Related Words

• Methodist (noun/adjective): A member of the Protestant denomination originating from the Wesleyan Methodists; pertaining to this denomination.
  • He is a Methodist minister.
• Wesleyanism (noun): The system of Christian theological thought and practice associated with John Wesley and the Methodist movement.
  • Wesleyanism stresses the role of grace in personal salvation.

Synonyms

• Early Methodists: The first followers and the initial organized church under John Wesley.
• The Wesleyan Connection: An historical term for the original Methodist societies.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Wesleyan Methodists" specifically denotes the foundational, historical institution. It is not typically used as a general synonym for all modern Methodist churches, which may have different official names (e.g., The United Methodist Church).

Noun

1. the original Methodist Church