John Wesley (1703–1791) is recognized as the founder of Methodism. An acclaimed preacher, Wesley traveled extensively on horseback and drew large crowds for his outdoor sermons. A contemporary of William Wilberforce, Wesley was a strong voice opposing slavery in England and the United States. His influence upon modern Christianity can be seen by the large number of Methodist organizations in the Wesleyan tradition all over the world.
Wesley attended Christ Church College in Oxford where he was a member of the small group known as the “Holy Group,” which also included George Whitefield and Charles Wesley. Wesley spent some time in America as a missionary.
Wesley has published over 200 books, many of which can be found in the John Wesley Collection (28 vols.), including his Explanatory Notes upon the Old and New Testaments, as well as essays, sermons, and more.