Until now, no one has attempted in a single study to describe the close relationship of Samuel Wesley to his three sons and of his sons to each other. Yet for a true understanding of the story of Methodism in its first beginnings, it is essential to take into account the Rector's influence. Similarly, it is necessary to not only know the full nature of the partnership of John and Charles Wesley, but to understand their relation to Samuel Jr., and in particular to take account of the influence of Samuel over Charles. These varied and important relationships are the main subject of this book, but a vital last section deals with the joint manifesto of John and Charles, and what still remains of their contribution through Methodism to the universal church.Sons to Samuel is an expansion of the Quillian Lectures delivered at Emory University (Atlanta, GA), but in its vigor and clarity this fresh study of the Methodist saga will interest a far wider public than students of Methodist history, for the past is used as a challenge toward present-day Methodism.