In Radical Grace, Dr Kimbrough brings together the writings of Charles Wesley on the theme of justice for the poor and the marginalized, drawing upon his sermons, manuscript journal, poetry and a few letters. The author studies the theology of these texts (most of which were unpublished at the time of his death) and evaluates its viability both at the time of writing and today. Wesley's views of how Christians may 'use the grace divine' in seeking justice for the poor have radical implications, advocating behaviour that is often quite contrary to generally accepted Christian practise. This volume argues that the radical grace he espouses is consistent with Holy Scripture and should indeed be practised by Christians today. The liturgies and musical settings of some of the hymn texts addressing the poor and marginalized provide a pragmatic means for the worshipping community to integrate the principles of radical grace into their theology and praxis.

The theological concerns of Charles Wesley are expressed primarily through his repertory of over 9,000 hymns and sacred poems. They include inquiries into the meaning of the Church's sacred rites, festivals, and seasons (e.g., Holy Communion, Baptism, Advent, Christmas, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost) and a host of other concerns, such as conversion, sanctification, perfection, holiness, grace, and love. This volume prepares the reader to read Wesley's poetry, showing the plethora of literary, theological, and societal influences on his thought and writing; and brings together a collection of hymns and sacred poems that are representative of his theological perspectives. The reader is given the opportunity to become better equipped to grasp the meaning of Wesley's profound lyrical theology and its implications for contemporary theology and life.