Reckoning Methodism addresses the brokenness of The United Methodist Church (UMC) in the United States. Homosexuality is but one of several fault lines with decades-long histories in this predominantly White denomination. Demographic shifts, racism, and imperialism are heavily implicated in the current state of division. What, then, is the true nature and mission of this church?
The UMC is the public church divided. Distinct missional theologies arise from competing commitments and priorities. When Methodist programmatic initiatives--such as vital congregations, environmental witness, and volunteers in mission--fail to account for these differences, denominational unity is weakened. Constructively, this book seeks historical clarity, collective repentance, charismatic learning, and institutional courage as United Methodists reckon with inherited animosities and divisions. This book provides no answers or programmatic fixes. Rather, it provides possibilities for repairing past harms as United Methodists seek ways to continue living out their Wesleyan faith. Reckoning with the public church divided, we glimpse the nature and mission of the church--not only as it has been but also as it could be.
Industry Reviews
“Darryl Stephens insightfully explores the many fault lines running through The United Methodist Church—including those related to race, gender, sexuality, nationality, and mission—and graciously suggests how the church may nonetheless pursue honesty, dialogue, healing, and justice. This book offers much to reflect on for those seeking to co-create a more just and equitable church.”
—David W. Scott, director of mission theology, General Board of Global Ministries, United Methodist Church
“Reckoning Methodism provides a much-needed historical, sociological, and theological analysis of the divisions, challenges, and opportunities of Methodism. With careful scholarship and a passion for the church’s mission and ministry, Darryl Stephens probes the factors leading to current brokenness within Methodism and prods us toward repentance and a new future. Though the book focuses specifically on Methodism, the ‘reckoning’ is applicable to the broader society where ideological polarization and institutional dysfunction prevail.”
—Kenneth L. Carder, distinguished professor emeritus of the practice of Christian ministry, Duke Divinity School
“Darryl Stephens is unparalleled as a scholar of United Methodist social doctrine and theology. In a season of division, he prompts us to look again to the wealth of this tradition to repair errors of the past and find new ways forward. This work is essential reading for those who care for the church.”
—Kevin Carnahan, professor of philosophy and religion, Central Methodist University
“By all accounts, The United Methodist Church finds itself in existential crisis today. Writing with the hope and anguish of an insider, Darryl Stephens expertly lays bare the deep structure of this crisis, rooted in what he calls the ‘white mind’— an imperialistic mindset buoyed by white privilege and white supremacy. A prophetic call to radical denominational renewal, Reckoning Methodism is a must-read.”
—Hendrik R. Pieterse, associate professor of global Christianity and intercultural theology, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary
