Free Methodism - Rooted in Wesleyan Holiness
Providing the Theological Foundation & Direction for Central and Her Mission
For more than 160 years, Free Methodists have believed we’re called to partner in God’s redemptive work — being professionally equipped, rooted in Christ, shaped by His character, civically engaged, and committed to restorative justice for others.
Preach The Truth
Follow the Spirit and He will lead you into all truth. But it will often come through study and by searching out the revelations which God has made to others. If you would grow, you must love the truth. You must go hear men and women preach who have the ability and courage to preach the truth.”
-B.T. Roberts, “Editorial Notes” The Free Methodist 1887
History of Free Methodism
Benjamin Titus (B.T.) & Ellen Roberts
B.T. Roberts, who is attributed as one of the founders of Free Methodism, was a Methodist Episcopal (ME) pastor in rural New York who promoted returning to the traditional views and practices of Methodism. In 1860, he was voted out of the ME church primarily to his growing promotion of the importance of being accessible to the poor, standing against all forms of slavery, and growing political issues in his conference. From there the movement that would become the Free Methodist Church started as a group of Methodist pastors and local leaders who worked to live out what would become their mission to “love God, love people, and make disciples.” (Book of Discipline, 2019.)
What We Believe
Free Methodists have six overarching belief statements that can be further broken down in individual doctrines of belief. The full statements can be found on FMCUSA.org or in the current Book of Discipline. The following is the overview statements.
God:
We believe in one Living God in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
The Scriptures:
We believe in the authority of God’s Word over our lives.
Humankind:
We believe humankind are created in the image of God as free moral persons.
Salvation:
We believe that new life in Christ free from the guilt and penalty of sin, is given to all who believe.
The Church:
We believe in The Church. The people of God, who exist to fulfill the purposes of God in Christ.
Last Things:
We believe in the Kingdom of God established now in the hearts of believers, the return of Christ, at a time chosen by the Father, and our hope in the resurrection and eternal glory.
The FM Way
The Free Methodist Way (FM Way) is the outcome of diligent work to clearly articulate the things that make Free Methodism unique and what the denomination offers the Church and culture at large. It is made up of 5 values that shape the corporate and personal identity of Free Methodists.
Five Freedoms of Free Methodism
Why “Free”? The word free was added as the designation for the churches because they were distinctly anti-slavery and ensured that all people had free access to church which at that time was uncommon. These things are still true but as the denomination further defined what it wanted to be known for five specific things became what they are known for.
01
Freedom of all races to worship together in unity.
02
Freedom of women and men to be treated respectfully and use their gifts equally in the church, in the home and in the world.
03
Freedom of the poor to be treated with dignity in the church and with justice in the world.
04
Freedom of the laity and clergy to be given equal authority and decision-making positions within the church.
05
Freedom of the Holy Spirit to inspire our worship.
Interested in Learning More?
Light & Life
Check out Light & Life for additional information on what is happening with Free Methodists around the world! L&L features articles and podcasts of everyone from local leaders to the bishops. Whatever your interest level, there is something for you.
Take a Class
Central offers two classes online to learn more. You can take Free Methodist History and Polity and Wesleyan Thought fully online. In these classes you will study B.T., Ellen, and John Wesley and the movements that have lead to where we are today.
Marston Memorial
With over 160 of rich history, The Marston Center is the historical arm of the denomination and houses free access to many of the impactful books or resources for Free Methodists around the world. It preserves stories and teachings that shape faith today.