“I look upon the world as my perish” said John Wesley. It was this incredible insight and belief that made John Wesley one of the great leaders of the Christian church.  He was born on June 17, 1703 in England.  He and his brother Charles were used by God to bring about the movement that grew to become the denomination known today as Methodism. 

John Wesley almost died as a boy during a fire. However, his life was saved by two villagers that saw his face through a window on the second floor of the building and rescued him. John always looked upon this event to describe himself as a branch plucked from the fire (Zach. 3:2).

While a student at Oxford University, John, his brother Charles, and George Whitfield began meeting daily for prayer and devotions. This became known as the Holy club. Because of their method of learning the Bible and growing in Christ the tem Methodist was first given to the members of this club.

After an unsuccessful  visit to America as a missionary, he returned to England. However, his visit was not completely without any fruit. Out of this visit, Charles and John discovered their need to experience saving faith in Jesus Christ, so both, at different times experienced full assurance of salvation.

John became the known as the pastor of England on his own right. It is estimated that he traveled more than 250,000 miles on horseback preaching the gospel in any place that would receive him. “I gave them all to Christ” he once said about this unparalleled effort. 

His writings and sermons are part of his legacy to us. He was a dedicated servant of Christ. It is estimated  that there are more than 23,500,000 members of the Methodist church today. However, his influence is not only felt among the Methodists, his influence is present in the entire world. (click here to learn more).