1743 JOHN WESLEY. First Edition. An Earnest Appeal to Men of Reason - First Defense of Methodism!

Rare first edition of three items and a second edition of one, all calculated as an apologetic and explanation of the desired outcomes of Methodism, a religion of the heart that brings authentic spiritual life to the emotions, to relationships, and to ethics and holiness [which flow out of the first two]. It is also a claim to primitivism, that is, that the Methodist movement of the Great Awakening was a re-happening of the original apostolic church life as reflected in the book of Acts, etc.,  One of the earliest articulations, and certainly the most thorough, of Wesley's thoughts about the nature and intent of the Methodist movement.  Fascinating provenance as well; see that below.  Also included is the first edition of Charles Wesley's corresponding hymn, The Primitive Church.  Wesley, John. An Earnest Appeal to Men of Reason and Religion. The Second Edition. Bristol. Printed by Felix Farley; and sold by J. Wilson in Wine-street, and at the School-Room in the Hourse-Fair, etc. 1743.