The Lyrical Theology of Charles Wesley, Expanded Edition

Revised with Comprehensive Scriptural Index to Wesley's Poetry The theology of Charles Wesley is expressed primarily in hymns and sacred poems-that is, in a literary and liturgical form of art. Wesley's theological concerns, as seen through his hymns and poems, include inquiries into the meaning of the church's sacred rites, festivals, and seasons (Holy Communion, Baptism, Advent, Christmas, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost), and a host of other theological concerns, such as conversion, sanctification, perfection, holiness, grace, and love. These theological concerns are spread throughout his repertory of over 9,000 hymns and poems. There are two primary purposes of this volume: first, to prepare the reader to read Wesley's poetry, given the plethora of literary, theological, and societal influences on his thought and writing; and second, to bring together a collection of his hymns and sacred poems that are representative of his theological perspectives. Thereby the reader is given the opportunity to become better equipped to grasp the meaning of Wesley's profound lyrical theology and its implications for contemporary theology and life.