Overview

"Is being good the way to heaven? Being religious? Jesus said, ""You must be born again."" John Wesley, spiritual forefather of Methodist, Pentecostal, and Holiness churches and the Salvation Army, explains in this brief classic. One of the standard sermons Wesley required his circuit riders to learn and re-preach, The New Birth shows that religion and morality are good but new life in Jesus is vital. Wesley pulls no punches. But his 18th-century English is hard for most modern readers. As with his best-selling John Wesley's The Character of a Methodist, David Wentz has updated the language to restore its original force and verve. The result is a text that readers of all levels of theological interest and expertise will understand and enjoy. This short book is ideal for small groups and adult Sunday School classes. Dr. Wentz has added an introduction that sets the work in context, thoughtful discussion questions at the end of each section, a brief guide on how to lead small groups, and a suggested six-week schedule. For further study, Wesley's numerous Scripture quotes and allusions are identified. Wesley's full original version is included as an appendix. John Wesley's The New Birth is part of The John Wesley in Modern Language Series. In a time of upheaval in global Christianity, these brief, accessible summaries of Wesley's foundational emphases are required reading."

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Reviews

"""An elegant and inspiring guide for personal transformation."" -- Online review ""Perfect for study groups."" -- Online review ""This concise yet profound book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the core of Christian faith and the roots of the Methodist, Pentecostal, and Holiness movements. Wesley's message is clear: being good and being religious are not enough to guarantee salvation. Rather, it is the transformative experience of being 'born again' that brings true spiritual life. Wentz's updated language makes Wesley's words feel fresh and relevant, while the added introduction, discussion questions, and study guide make this book an ideal resource for small groups and adult Sunday School classes. What sets this book apart is its ability to speak to readers of all theological backgrounds and levels of interest. Whether you're a seasoned theologian or simply curious about the Christian faith, 'The New Birth' will challenge and inspire you to rethink your understanding of salvation and spiritual growth."" -- Online review"

Author Information

"Best known internationally as author of PASTORING: THE NUTS AND BOLTS, in print in seven languages, David Wentz has a passion for helping people connect with God and make a difference. Combining 38 years as a pastor with a first career in engineering and graduate degrees from three very different seminaries (charismatic, mainstream, and Wesleyan-evangelical), he expresses God's truth in ways everyone can appreciate.Raised in the Episcopal church, Dr. Wentz has also been part of Nazarene, Pentecostal Holiness, and non-denominational congregations. As a Methodist pastor he served small, large, and multicultural churches in rural, small-town, suburban, and urban settings, served as a regional church consultant in the Maryland - D.C. area, and led workshops for pastors internationally. In 2015 he retired to the rural Ozarks, where he writes, works in God's great outdoors, and oversees Doing Christianity, Inc., a small non-profit devoted to equipping pastors in developing and minority-Christian countries.In 1974, David married his college sweetheart, Paula. They have five children and fourteen grandchildren.The book of Ezekiel describes David's calling. Twenty-five hundred years ago God called Ezekiel to teach God's ways and proclaim the Holy Spirit, the one who revives dry bones and forms them into a dwelling for God and a source of living water that heals nations.Bones are still dry today. God still wants to dwell among his people. Nations still need healing. And people still need to be taught God's ways and be moved by God's Spirit. That's what David calls ""Doing Christianity."""

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