Methodism & Wesleyanism: Discipline, Holiness, and Division. Methodism, birthed in the 18th century under John and Charles Wesley, was originally a renewal movement within the Church of England. Known for its methodical devotion, fiery preaching, and emphasis on holiness, it grew rapidly into one of the most influential Protestant traditions in the world. Yet like other denominational movements, Methodism has fractured into countless branches — United Methodists, Free Methodi