The Wesleyan Holiness Movement

The Wesleyan Holiness Movement emerged in the 19th century from John Wesley’s Methodist teachings, emphasizing a personal and transformative faith experience. Central to the movement is the belief that Christians can pursue “entire sanctification,” a stage of spiritual maturity where one’s heart is fully devoted to God, resulting in freedom from sin’s power. It advocates for holy living, moral integrity, and active service. The movement influenced various Christian denominations, emphasizing holiness as an ongoing, attainable goal for believers, and stressing the importance of personal devotion, ethical living, and social compassion.