Wesleyan Option

About Wesleyan Option

Wesleyan Option makes the case that Wesleyan thought and practice matter for the church and the world today. Hosts Lane Davis, Joy Moore, and Rob Haynes present Wesleyan theology as an intellectually rigorous, culturally prophetic vision. Through engaging conversations with scholars, pastors, and practitioners, they explore how the Wesley Brothers' emphasis on grace, holiness, community, and social transformation speaks powerfully to contemporary issues—critiquing both progressive and conservative cultural accommodation. Whether you're a younger Methodist wondering if your tradition is worth committing to, a church leader seeking theological depth, or a curious Christian exploring different perspectives, this podcast demonstrates why Wesleyan thought matters for navigating faith, culture, and the future of the church.

Publisher

Lane Davis, Joy Moore, Rob Haynes

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

12 Jan 2026

Latest episode

14 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   14 Aug 2026

   "Reading Scripture in Wesleyan Ways" w/ Dr. David Carr

   In this episode, Lane finally welcomes a biblical scholar to the show: Dr. David Carr (https://www.nes.edu/about/faculty-staff/faculty/david-carr-phd/), New Testament scholar and editor of Reading Scripture in Wesleyan Ways. Buy the book at Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Reading-Scripture-Weslyean-Brady-Beard/dp/1791035752/ref=sr_1_2?crid=N7JNDRUTCYPV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.LxN1VDFVvhA5Ac7ilRHuhGeToFyEeSmuCMJ-QIeIKUoSNlA3XltwiaozXHSlTY9f49k6s4GViF9MhV4fCUr3JSswcr86LSk9efPIVjqIIied6A0P72gFdh1nQxyTQb10.IQr03AZWps49LhoZPqAUv1J2R8DGunYZrsQsQ31TzXA&dib_tag=se&keywords=david+carr+wesleyan+biblical&qid=1786704428&sprefix=david+carr+wesleyan+biblical%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-2)! In this episode, Lane and David discuss: The need for accessible resources for students, pastors, and lay leaders in the Wesleyan tradition. What it means to say "scripture is primary" Why biblical interpretation must connect with praxis And why Wesleyan theology resists systematic treatment Connect with us at wesleyanoption@gmail.com.

2. 

   23 Jul 2026

   Justified, Sanctified, Still Working On It: Salvation in Wesleyan Vocabulary

   What does it actually mean to be "saved"? On this episode of The Wesleyan Option, hosts Lane Davis, Joy J. Moore, and Rob Haynes dig into soteriology (the theological study of salvation) and John Wesley's distinctive way of holding justification and sanctification together. The conversation walks through the full order of salvation: prevenient grace, justifying grace, regeneration (the new birth), and sanctifying grace, and why Wesley refused to separate any of them. Topics covered: Wesleyan theology, John Wesley, soteriology, prevenient grace, justifying grace, sanctifying grace, Christian perfection, social holiness, assurance, Methodist doctrine, N.T. Wright, James Logan, Theology and Evangelism in the Wesleyan Heritage. Email us at: WesleyanOption@gmail.com Subscribe to The Wesleyan Option for weekly conversations making the case for Wesleyan thought and practice in the church and the world.

3. 

   14 Jul 2026

   "The Four Alls" w/ Rev. Michael Carpenter

   Arminianism lives! In this episode, Lane talks with Rev. Michael Carpenter about his book "The Four Alls." The conversation gets into the challenge of compressing theology into marketable statements, the comparison between the Wesleyan Quadrilateral and The Four Alls, and the difference between Pollyannaish optimistic grace. Email us at: wesleyanoption@gmail.com

4. 

   2 Jul 2026

   No Taxation without Sanctification! - Special July 4th Episode

   On this special America! edition of Wesleyan Option, we discuss politics, nation, and the duty of Christians to God and country. Joy, Rob, and Lane dive into the historical context of Wesley's views on America, the concept of a Christian nation, and the Wesleyan aim of forming a Christian nation. We also give a shout-out to all of our Duke Divinity School listeners and discuss the post-liberal critique of the church's engagement with the state and the Wesleyan response to it. Chapters 00:00 Wesley's Views on America 14:12 The Post-Liberal Critique 27:17 Dialogue on Race and Faith Project 34:32 Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of America's Independence 44:10 Signal or Noise

5. 

   27 May 2026

   14 Sweet Caroline (Divines) and Other Wesleyan Anglophilia w/ Dr. Ryan Danker

   In this episode of Wesleyan Option, Lane sits down with “notorious Anglophile” and renowned scholar Dr. Ryan Danker to discuss his two newest books: Dynamic Grace and To Spread Scriptural Holiness. They dive deep into the fascinating historical roots of the Wesleyan movement, exploring how the Glorious Revolution and the Caroline Divines shaped John Wesley’s vision of an "evangelical Catholicism." Dr. Danker also shares his insights on why early Methodism is best understood not as a static institution, but as a dynamic movement of restoration and renewal within the church. Guest Bio Dr. Ryan Danker is the founding director of the John Wesley Institute in Washington, DC. He previously taught on the faculties of Wesley Theological Seminary and Greensboro College. He holds degrees from Northwest Nazarene University, Duke University, and Boston University, and is the author of numerous works on Wesleyan theology and early Methodism. Episode Highlights The Story of Dynamic Grace: Why Dr. Danker wrote a highly accessible, 100-page introductory book on early Methodism for the laity. The Anglican Context: How the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and the high-church "Caroline Divines" laid the foundation for Wesley's pursuit of holy living. Evangelical Catholicism: Unpacking Wesley’s unique blend of experiential faith and universal, historic church tradition. Collaborative Scholarship: A look inside the John Wesley Institute’s summits and their latest multi-denominational project, To Spread Scriptural Holiness. Movement vs. Institution: Why Methodism thrives when it operates as a leavening force of renewal rather than settling into a rigid institutional structure. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Book: Dynamic Grace: The Story of Early Methodism (https://www.amazon.com/Dynamic-Grace-Story-Early-Methodism/dp/B0GXLJQYZF) by Ryan N. Danker (Available on Amazon) Book: To Spread Scriptural Holiness: Theological, Social, and Missional Foundations for the Wesleyan Movement (https://nextmethodism.org/books/) (https://nextmethodism.org/books/)edited by Ryan N. Danker (Available on Seedbed and Amazon) Article: Dr. Danker’s essays on early Methodism and church renewal can be found at Firebrand Magazine (https://firebrandmag.com/articles/the-charism-of-the-wesleyan-movement). Organizations: Learn more about the (https://nextmethodism.org/)John Wesley Institute (https://nextmethodism.org/). (https://nextmethodism.org/) Connect With Us! We would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for future topics, please reach out to us at wesleyanoption@gmail.com (mailto:wesleyanoption@gmail.com).

6. 

   12 May 2026

   13 How Jesus Unlocks the "Old" Testament: A Discussion of Luke 24

   Email us at: wesleyanoption@gmail.com In this episode, Lane Davis, Joy J. Moore, and Rob Haynes dive into the Gospel lectionary passage of Luke 24:44-53. They explore how Jesus serves as the "key" that unlocks the Old Testament, the Wesleyan concept of the "inner veil" being removed, and how the Ascension serves as a pivot from a life of worship to a life of global mission. Key Questions Answered Why is the Gospel lectionary passage (Luke 24:44-53) often split into sections? Dr. Joy J. Moore explains that while modern Bibles use chapter and verse divisions as "zip codes" to help us navigate, these breaks can sometimes undermine our interpretation. The transition from Jesus’ teaching to His Ascension is a single, continuous drama of the Creator God’s promise being fulfilled through the life of Jesus. What is the "Wesleyan Option" for understanding difficult Scripture? Rob Haynes notes that Jesus explains Himself as the fulfillment of the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms. For Wesleyans, the "opened mind" isn't just about intellectual study; it’s about what John Wesley called the removal of the "inner veil." Through the Spirit, our hearts are illumined to grasp the scriptures we have heard but not yet fully understood. Does the Ascension mean the Church should stay in "continual worship"? While Luke 24 ends with the disciples praising God in the temple, the panel emphasizes that this is only "Volume One." By reading Luke and Acts as a continuous narrative, we see that the joy of worship is the fuel for the mission. The "continual prayer" of the disciples provided the foundation for the administrative and missional work that follows in the book of Acts. Keywords: Wesleyan Option, Luke 24, The Ascension, Methodist Theology, Lectionary Study, Inner Veil, Book of Acts, Church Mission.

7. 

   29 Apr 2026

   12 Wonder and Power and Ascension! Oh My! (Greater Works in John 14)

   What does it mean for followers of Jesus to perform "greater works" than the Messiah himself? In this episode we dive into John 14 to explore the tension between reason and wonder, activism and faith. Defining "Greater": How the church continues Christ’s mission through social holiness. The Reason/Wonder Divide: How do we live in the tension between reason and wonder? The Greatest Work: Why Wesley believed that converting hearts and practicing holiness remains our highest calling. The Summer Reading List Rob’s Pick: Love Goes First (https://www.amazon.com/Love-Goes-First-Transform-Relationships/dp/0310119413/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34VJ3A1YX6DLZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hHmspfF2_HX2owtJ0o3jVEBxSwoezXCaoh544Ja7WLqGCBqUMwEEWNZ9a5hamdXKuli6HI6W3gg8YNotKJhXUdb1KSwvOX0XWI27-t3LtTm-_b9BCt3XY477Qpcs3egNq7WaZXBCTNZlP1RA7BXQ67sVyKfTE-gjhWQdCqN44gc_etQmypQdzhzdtvdOPQbA9tGbYZokf-kFMxRYgoN9MaD374fLkjAeJGKkaGPVCzo.X6jPBbDxiGvxiaFictFKn_x5RFRc-e5-nZUIwJIDOp0&dib_tag=se&keywords=love+goes+first&qid=1777467036&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=love+goes+fi%2Caps%2C285&sr=8-1)by Andrew Forrest Joy’s Picks: Disability and Evangelism (https://www.amazon.com/Disability-Evangelism-Fullness-Kingdom-Ministry/dp/1514009781/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2O8CN1VB0VZBC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._Yom-SBh_jobco_1pM_cIZqRbG0EGWccog-UHCwRZKEVPx85RECvyyL1O2Sb-Jbpk2y3Vc8GYhmMfTNiXY6S-DSVDPZsq2MUTlsDf7eelXhINu9PdbJ4arnrHg-Sblbvm_n250A3ZpsNyzYS5qm7vkIIgmcnlqawt1JQ5XRoE5diSPqLCqTKULjQiZgbiRUwPyF1QF2yE0TwLTQj_PD4-GL9Gwt11StqPakc5YwpQBw.LvIbs-Mr713pPch7p5djWOm5_0gxjHPrUGG4KY8hpc8&dib_tag=se&keywords=disability+and+evangelism&qid=1777467070&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=disability+and+evangelis%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1)by Rochelle Scheuermann The Divided Mind of the Black Church (https://www.amazon.com/Divided-Black-Church-Religion-Ethnicity/dp/1479806005/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3KHBWTOMQ10ST&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.vi8pUp-7QZm3ixT16lYo7K7Lk5SWadJD3_aSLWC3Uvtw3Mjoz1DwP3Nf9pHv4nZM.3idoEUZRw74hkn1O00GokDwUwpnEsZXGQMoyWHt-jyg&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+divided+church+warnock&qid=1777467100&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=the+divided+church+warnock%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1) by Raphael Warnock Tony Stark, Odysseus, and the Myths Behind Marvel (https://www.amazon.com/Stark-Odysseus-Myths-Behind-Marvel/dp/0063382644/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QECTCFLAWD9B&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.iEsa17A4Ci9KNQc9Q62TXFmSTjuYIP65m8PkbZ2zGl90PHligR88V7aTYhBfDohYMVLbs1EYLmz6Fy0SUAoREzpNc8Tsfvawvj0SmjXqMFsJ9kVZVAjoPgBuImG935Erz3HU09F5TZD6szBEwEzRljNXEnEoacv5IdeT_E1UGDa_cZ3XIasFFrhbTxkzjcNX_SRCraAY01YqgD2KOpI-R6V4wi27SAXPX0qqOZ0aUoU.RdQrVFBKFyNLa2oQbcr5y3N7RwYm8_0uVBkiq5O2Smk&dib_tag=se&keywords=tony+stark+myths&qid=1777467137&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=tony+stark+myths%2Caps%2C166&sr=8-1)by Peter Meinick Lane’s Pick: Reformations (https://www.amazon.com/Reformations-Early-Modern-World-1450-1650/dp/0300240031/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HGERJCFOSLZX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fEmgd5KckJ8vtxBjzYa1v4UU_h3NhttRLKxvOjPQCbMiGlHOptKJqJF-rVdQsmUyv95EZx4kz_1lAFM1dsvsJcVCIANAipDl3js4dKnaZvI.1GX2kPofxhvVhBI5XvMY0dLBnRdrkQJ6P0iWYupSlMo&dib_tag=se&keywords=reformations+carlos+eire&qid=1777467172&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=reformations+carols+%2Caps%2C159&sr=8-1) by Carlos Eire Email: WesleyanOption@gmail.com

8. 

   23 Apr 2026

   11 Wrestling and Welcoming in the Church - Faith and Justice w/ Brandon Murphy Ward

   Email us at wesleyanoption@gmail.com (mailto:wesleyanoption@gmail.com) "I don't think seminary is about giving you ways to defend the Jesus you believe in... it's about breaking down your biases to build that faith back up even stronger." What does it mean to "grow in grace" when the institution of the church feels imperfect? In this episode, Lane sits down with Brandon Murphy-Ward, a second-year MDiv student at Duke Divinity School, to explore the beautiful, often messy intersection of theological education and pastoral calling. From a transformative childhood encounter on a Kansas highway to the academic "unraveling" of Old Testament scholarship, Brandon shares his journey of navigating the Wesleyan tradition. We dive deep into: The Calling: How a 13-year-old’s "Happy Birthday, Jesus" prayer evolved into a commitment to the elder track in the UMC. Head vs. Heart: Why the modern church has lost the art of "reasoning" and why questioning God isn't a sin—it's a tradition. Wesleyan Nerd-Out: A refreshing look at Christian Perfection and why the early Methodist movement’s focus on the marginalized is the key to modern justice work. The Seedbed of Seminary: A candid look at the "pruning" process of theological school and why wrestling with the church is a sign of a healthy vocation.

9. 

   10 Apr 2026

   10 Church Cancel Culture and Some Easter Hope

   Email us at: WesleyanOption@gmail.com In an era of "pastors not on their best behavior" and high-profile church scandals, how should Christians navigate the messy tension between righteous judgment and transformative grace? In this episode of Wesleyan Option, hosts Lane Davis, Dr. Joy J. Moore, and Dr. Rob Haynes tackle the heavy reality of leadership failures and the "shame game" of social media. Moving beyond the clickbait, the panel explores a deeply Wesleyan approach to accountability, restoration, and the "soteriological way of thinking" that defines our tradition. Key topics discussed in this episode: The Shame vs. Accountability Tension: How the Wesleyan tradition balances a strong notion of grace with a historical commitment to strict accountability. Honor and Shame Culture: A look at how biblical contexts differ from modern Western "guilt/innocence" frameworks and the impact of social media on restoration. Personal Transformation: Rob shares a powerful personal story of radical change and the role of the Holy Spirit in breaking long-held habits. The Three H’s of Community: Joy breaks down the essential relationship between Hope, Honesty, and Hospitality in the life of a disciple. The Evolution of Evangelism: Why many modern conversions are happening in the "dark of the night" rather than at the altar rail, and what that means for the local church. The Wesleyan Distinctive: Why salvation must exist within the bounds of accountability—from the early "bands and classes" to modern-day sanctification. Whether you are a leader navigating church conflict or a layperson seeking a deeper understanding of holiness and sanctification, this episode offers a grounded, theological roadmap for moving from brokenness to wholeness. Keywords: Wesleyan Theology, Grace and Accountability, Church Scandals, Sanctification, Restoration, John Wesley, Discipleship, Christian Leadership, Spiritual Transformation, Methodist History.

10. 

    24 Mar 2026

    9 Is Modern Worship Wesleyan? Wesley, Augustine, and the Theology of Flow w/ Dr. Debbie Wong

    How does a 4th-century North African bishop shape the way we sing in modern sanctuaries? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Debbie Wong (Duke Divinity School) to explore the intersection of ancient liturgical wisdom and contemporary worship practices. Dr. Wong shares insights from her research on St. Augustine, discussing how his theology of "singing as an act of love" provides a necessary framework for the "flow" of modern worship sets. We dive into the current state of contemporary worship, the importance of liturgical formation, and how to bridge the gap between the "heart and the mind" in our Sunday gatherings. In this episode, we discuss: The Theology of Flow: Understanding the transition from "presentation" to "encounter" in modern worship. Augustine as a Resource: Why ancient voices are vital for contemporary liturgical health. The Wesleyan Perspective: Applying a holiness lens to musical and spiritual formation. Worship Planning: Moving beyond song selection to intentional spiritual edification. Resources Mentioned: The UMC Top 100 Project: Exploring the most-sung songs in the church and their theological impact. Access the Project Here (https://www.umcdiscipleship.org/articles/ccli-top-100-beyond-project) Contemporary Worship Studies: For further reading on the history and development of worship movements, see the works of Lester Ruth and Lim Swee Hong, including A History of Contemporary Praise & Worship (https://www.amazon.com/History-Contemporary-Praise-Worship-Understanding/dp/0801098289). Trinitarian Theology: For a deeper look at how the Trinity shapes the life of the church, we recommend Trinitarian Matters (https://www.amazon.com/Trinitarian-Matters-Laceye-C-Warner/dp/1791040543/ref=sr_1_1?crid=T3Z3TV3NHUII&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.LwJ7uUTh7akXC9Ed3Mx24w.p6n2E-MxrMQQze5ISzDScrOhX8IveUVBNj_C1yXgK64&dib_tag=se&keywords=warner+trinitarian+matters&qid=1774282294&s=books&sprefix=warner+trinitarian+matte%2Cstripbooks%2C269&sr=1-1), edited by Laceye Warner and Cameron Merrill. Dr. Debbie Wong’s Work: Visit her website (https://www.deborahannwong.com/) to follow her latest research and leadership resources. Connect with the Show: We want to hear your thoughts on the "state of worship" in your local context. Send your questions, feedback, or episode guest suggestions to: wesleyanoption@gmail.com (mailto:wesleyanoption@gmail.com)

11. 

    17 Mar 2026

    8 Theological Education w/ Brian Fu

    On today's episode we discuss theological education and what Wesleyans get right, and wrong. Also...AI! Plus, Lane interview Brian Fu, a Methodist seminary student and pastor in Washington about his journey into Christian faith and ministry. Email us at: wesleyanoption@gmail.com

12. 

    27 Feb 2026

    7 Group Spiritual Direction and Discipleship w/ Dr. Melanie Dobson

    In this episode, we talk with Dr. Melanie Dobson about the practice of Group Spiritual Direction and its role in communal discernment. She shares her journey to spiritual direction, the need for belonging in today's culture, and the challenges of implementing communal discernment in churches. Email us at: wesleyanoption@gmail.com

13. 

    20 Feb 2026

    6 Live at the John Wesley Fellows Christmas Conference

    We recorded a live episode! Participants in the 2025 John Wesley Fellows Christmas Conference at Duke University joined us for a conversation that explores the relevance of Wesleyan theology in the 21st century and the importance of engaging with public theology. We delve into the concept of revival and the need for theological engagement, and Joy talks about the importance of art and music in how we worship. Email us at: WesleyanOption@gmail.com

14. 

    13 Feb 2026

    Ep 5 Why I Stayed United Methodist w/ Dr. Steve Rankin

    In the episode, we talk with Dr. Steve Rankin and dive into the reasons he stayed in the United Methodist Church. Our hosts also explore the impact of belonging, behavior, and belief on church affiliation as well as the challenges and complexities of church affiliation in a 21st century "vibes" culture. Email us at WesleyanOption@gmail.com

15. 

    6 Feb 2026

    Ep 4 Wesleyan Social Witness, plus The Reformation w/ Dr. Esther Chung-Kim

    In this week's episode, we're discussing a Wesleyan social witness and trying to get beyond theory to what loving our neighbors looks like in the midst of a polarized world. Plus, Lane talks with Dr. Esther Chung-Kim about the Protestant Reformation, how Wesley fits into that history, and how to talk to your kids in a distracted world. Then, our hosts offer their own "confessions" for ways they've been faithful...and sometimes fallen...in their own economic lives. We want to hear from you. Send comments or questions to wesleyanoption@gmail.com.

16. 

    30 Jan 2026

    Ep 3 Epistles from Babylon w/ Justin Bronson Berringer and Greg Coates

    In this extended interview conversation, we dive into the themes of vulnerability in friendship and reimagining church and politics. Read Justin and Greg's letters at: https://epistlesfrombabylon.substack.com/ (https://epistlesfrombabylon.substack.com/) Email us at: wesleyanoption@gmail.com

17. 

    23 Jan 2026

    Ep 2 Wesleyan Essentials w/ Dr. Sondra Wheeler

    What is essential for a Wesleyan expression of the Christian church? Rob, Joy, and Lane discuss what they think are the nonnegotiable's. Then Lane talks with Dr. Sondra Wheeler, Emerita Professor from Wesley Theological Seminary. Finally, we try to answer a listener question. If you have a question you'd like us to discuss, email us at: wesleyanoption@gmail.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wesleyan Theology and Ethics 04:57 The Wesleyan Tradition and Scripture Engagement 10:09 The Wesleyan Tradition and Community 15:01 The Wesleyan Movement and Transformational Action 20:08 The Wesleyan Tradition and the Intersection of Faith and Works 29:15 The Essence of Wesleyan Theology w/ Dr. Sondra Wheeler 01:24:18 Ask Us Anything: Variety in Wesleyan Churches

18. 

    16 Jan 2026

    Ep 1 What is a Wesleyan Option? w/ Dr. Doug Strong

    What is a Wesleyan option and why does the church need it? In this episode, we introduce our new podcast! And we talk to Dr. Doug Strong about the strengths and potential and a Wesleyan option. Stick around as we also give you "signals" and "noises" from the culture. Email us at: wesleyanoption@gmail.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wesleyan Theology 05:06 The Orienting Concern of Wesleyan Theology 10:37 The Cultural Relevance of Wesleyan Theology 16:13 Implementing Wesleyan Theology in Churches 22:22 The Medicine of Life 28:47 Introduction of Dr. Doug Strong 48:10 Wrapping Up and Call to Action

19. 

    12 Jan 2026

    Introducing Wesleyan Option

    Introducing Wesleyan Option. Join us for weekly conversations about theology, the church, and culture, all from a Wesleyan perspective.

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