John Wesley's vision of social justice provides a framework for understanding Jesus's teachings in the Beatitudes and challenges us to transform personal faith into active compassion.
• Social justice defined as the belief in equal rights, opportunities and treatment for all people regardless of characteristics
• The Beatitudes begin with blessing those who seem least blessed—the poor in spirit, mourners, the meek
• Spiritual poverty, mourning and meekness often become moments when God can work most deeply in our lives
• The Beatitudes show a progression from spiritual emptiness to active faith strong enough to withstand persecution
• Wesley spoke of "social holiness" rather than just personal holiness, believing faith must lead to action
• Wesley actively fought against poverty, slavery, and advocated for prison reform
• Methodist social justice legacy includes founding the Salvation Army and championing various social causes
• The Social Principles document represents Methodism's ongoing commitment to address contemporary issues
• Unity amid disagreement and wrestling with difficult questions remains a core Methodist value
