The Conversation Matters: Why United Methodists Should Talk with One Another

While applauding those of the left and right for their commitments to matters of conviction, the authors point out that the acrimonious and accusatory nature of current debates does little to forward the truth that both sides contend is at stake. The authors argue for the recovery of the lost Wesleyan art of Christian conference, a way of carrying on theological debate that is (1) true to principles believed to be of crucial importance and (2) open to the possibility of changing one’s mind. Drawing on recent essays on civility in political discourse, they argue for “speaking the truth in love” in a way that makes respect and love for others the paramount concern, and in which making an argument is not the same thing as having an argument.

Don E. Saliers is William R. Cannon Distinguished Professor of  Theology  and Worship at Candler School of Theology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia. 

2011 Henry H. Knight III is Donald and Pearl Wright Professor of Wesleyan Studies at Saint Paul School of Theology in Kansas City, Missouri.