There seems to be a common yet inaccurate perception that United Methodists don’t actually believe anything (or believe everything). That somehow, “Open Hearts. Open Minds. Open Doors.” became a statement of faith rather than a marketing campaign. Recent conversations on orthodoxy and the lack of a Wesleyan voice within church culture and broader culture in general, highlights this confusion.
To suggest United Methodists don’t actually have a core set of beliefs is unfair. One does not have to look far to find our Doctrinal Standards listed in The Book of Discipline to see that we hold certain and specific beliefs. Holding certain doctrinal beliefs does not, however, mean we are not open to lively conversation and theological exploration. The fact that we hold certain foundational beliefs is what gives us the freedom to engage in these conversations from various perspectives without becoming defensive, abrasive, or condescending (at least it should).
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