Most of the children you minister to can't even conceive how long 300 years is. So does that mean that John Wesley is out of date and not relevant in today's world? How can someone born 300 years ago still have something to say to the kids of a postmodern world? Well, some things don't change.

We still need to think clearly as we make decisions. Dr. Elaine Robinson discussed the Wesleyan quadrilateral as a method for theological reflection in a postmodern world. I think it would be helpful to introduce children to this important part of the Wesleyan tradition. (I suggest that you read Dr. Robinson's article before proceeding.)

Group Activity

Briefly teach about the quadrilateral, explaining what each term means. (See suggestions below for possible ways to describe each part.) Talk about how John Wesley thought it was a good way to approach the tough issues of life and faith — that it was a better idea than just saying, "We have always done it this way" or "This feels right to me."

Scripture:
Remembering that Scripture is primary; each of the other three elements of the quadrilateral is informed and shaped by the authority of Scripture: What does the Bible say about this issue? What does Jesus say about it?

Tradition:
What has our congregation done or believed? What has The United Methodist Church done or believed? (Look in the Book of Discipline or the Book of Resolutions for help here.) What has the universal, ecumenical church done or believed throughout history?

Experience:
What do I know about this issue? How have I experienced it? Do I know people who have "lived" it?

Reason:
What are the facts? How do the facts align with what Scripture, tradition, and experience have to say. What do the experts in this area say?

Once you have explained the quadrilateral, use it to explore a justice or theological issue that you think your group needs to understand. Here is how it might work with hunger, but it will work with almost any issue you'd like to use. Depending on your time, you could divide into groups, have each group take one aspect, then report and discuss. Or you could have the entire group explore each step. This would be a good way to start your next justice issue. Learn about the issue by using the Wesleyan quadrilateral.

Edie Harris is the Volunteer/Casework Coordinator for St. Laurence Chapel: Caring Center for Homeless People, Pompano Beach, Florida, where she also serves on the Methodist Federation for Social Action Board of Directors. With Shirley Ramsey, she co-authored Sprouts: Nurturing Children through Covenant Discipleship.