John and Charles Wesley, as well as George Whitefield, John Wesley never intended to found Methodism as a separate church.

 A fascinating topic in church history!

According to the writings and sermons of John and Charles Wesley, as well as George Whitefield, John Wesley never intended to found Methodism as a separate church. Instead, Methodism emerged as a movement within the Church of England, aimed at reviving spiritual vitality and promoting personal holiness.

John Wesley, in particular, was adamant that Methodism was not a separate denomination, but rather a renewal movement within the Anglican Church. In his sermon, "The Principles of a Methodist" (1742), Wesley emphasized that Methodists were not a distinct sect, but rather a group of Christians who sought to live out their faith in a more intentional and passionate way.

Charles Wesley, John's brother and a key figure in the early Methodist movement, also stressed the importance of remaining within the Church of England. In his hymn, "For a Catholic Spirit" (1749), Charles Wesley prayed for a spirit of unity and cooperation among Christians, regardless of denominational affiliations.

George Whitefield, a close friend and collaborator of the Wesleys, also shared their commitment to remaining within the Anglican Church. In his sermon, "The Necessity of Being Born Again" (1737), Whitefield emphasized the importance of personal conversion and spiritual renewal, but did so within the context of the established Church.

In fact, John Wesley only reluctantly agreed to ordain ministers and establish a separate Methodist organization in the late 1780s, after the American Revolution had created a need for independent churches in the newly formed United States.

In terms of whether Methodism should have broken away from Anglicanism, the Wesleys and Whitefield would likely argue that it was not their intention to create a separate denomination. Instead, they sought to revitalize the Church of England from within, promoting a more vibrant and personal faith among its members.

However, as the Methodist movement grew and developed its own distinct identity, it eventually became necessary to establish a separate organizational structure. Despite this, the Wesleys and Whitefield would likely emphasize the importance of maintaining close ties with the Anglican Church and promoting unity among all Christians, regardless of denominational affiliations.