What major doctrine did John Wesley emphasize while preaching?

John Wesley emphasized the doctrine of conversion while preaching, highlighting the transformative experience of an individual who turns to God in faith and repentance. This emphasis on conversion reflects Wesley's belief in the necessity of personal faith and the experience of being born again, which he articulated as a central aspect of his theological perspective.

Wesley's approach stressed the importance of a heartfelt relationship with God, which involves an initial act of faith resulting in salvation and a continual process of sanctification. He encouraged believers to seek personal holiness and a vibrant faith that manifests in a changed life, aligning with the broader Methodist movement that he founded, which emphasizes personal piety and social action.

Understanding this focus helps to contextualize Wesley's broader theological contributions, especially his view on the role of grace and human agency in salvation. While other concepts such as predestination, elemental salvation, and the inevitability of grace hold relevance in theological discourse, conversion remains at the heart of Wesley's message, making it the crucial doctrine in his preaching.