There is only one condition previously required of those who desire admission into these [Methodist] societies: “a desire to flee from the wrath to come, and to be saved from their sins.” But wherever this is really fixed in the soul it will be shown by its fruits. It is therefore expected of all who continue therein that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation,

First: By doing no harm, by avoiding evil of every kind, especially that which is most generally practiced, such as: The taking of the name of God in vain. The profaning the day of the Lord, either by doing ordinary work therein or by buying or selling. Drunkenness. Fighting, quarreling, brawling, brother going to law with brother, returning evil for evil, or railing for railing. Uncharitable or unprofitable conversation. Doing to others as we would not they should do unto us. Doing what we know is not for the glory of God. Borrowing without the probability of paying.

Secondly: By doing good; by being in every kind merciful after their power; as they have opportunity, doing good of every possible sort, and, as far as possible, to all men: To their bodies, of the ability which God gives, by giving food to the hungry, by clothing the naked, by visiting and helping then that are sick or in prison. To their souls, by instructing, reproving, or exhorting all we have any interaction with. By doing good, especially to them that are of the household of faith or groaning so to be; employing them preferably to others; buying one of another, helping each other in business, an so much more because the world will love its own and only them.

Thirdly: By attending upon all the ordinances of God; such are: The public worship of God. The ministry of the Word, either read or expounded. The Supper of the Lord. Family and private prayer. Searching of the Scriptures. Fasting and abstinence.

If there be any among us who observe them not, who habitually break any of them, let it be known unto them who watch over that soul as they who must give an account. We will admonish him of the error of his ways. We will bear with him for a season. But then, if he repent not, he has no more place among us. We have delivered our own souls.

—The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church

Here is another little self-check. As you read these conditions for membership, what is your reaction? Do they seem oppressive to you? Do you see them as yet another bunch of rules to be mindlessly followed? As an anachronism in today’s society? As an intrusion into your daily affairs? Something similar? If you do, you likely have some work to do in terms of your human pride.

These rules were promulgated as a means to an end, not an end to themselves. Wesley knew that we are meant to live the life of faith together, not separately. Why? Because he understood we are fallen individuals and ripe for the picking if we do not draw on all the resources we have at our disposal, and that includes the help of other faithful people. These rules help Christians to hold each other mutually accountable. They are designed to keep us focused on God, not ourselves or the world in which we live. Proud people cannot or will submit to these necessary conditions of faithful living.