Can real Christians disagree? What should that look like? To whom can we safely say, "Give me your hand?"

These are not new questions. Almost three hundred years ago, John Wesley, father of Methodism and grandfather of the Pentecostal movement and the Salvation Army, gave an answer that is sorely needed today: Christians should join hands in love and service, even if they don't agree on every point or do everything the same way.

Wesley explained exactly what he meant in this sermon from 1740. In particular, he lays out - in a series of questions that many modern Christians might feel hit a little too close to home - just how to recognize who it is safe to offer your hand to.

Wesley was a fiery revival preacher who drew crowds of thousands, but his 18th-century English is unfamiliar to modern readers. Some words have completely changed their meanings. (The original title of this sermon was "Catholic Spirit," even though it's not about the Roman Catholic Church.) Long-time pastor David Wentz has updated Wesley's wording to restore its original clarity, force, and spirit. 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 provides an introduction that sets Wesley's words 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, the numerous Scripture quotes and allusions are identified. Wesley's full original version is included as an appendix.

John Wesley's Give Me Your Hand is part of the John Wesley in Modern Language series. In a time of renewed interest in Christianity worldwide, these brief, accessible group studies of Wesley's foundational emphases are essential.