The characteristics of a Methodist bishop:
- Humility
- Meekness
- Gentleness
- Patience
- Fortitude
- Impartiality
- Zeal
- Wisdom
- Communion with God and
- Confidence in God
- Seriousness
Advice to the Church upon Choosing Leaders
You may now easily perceive the dreadful effects of raising immoral or unconverted leaders to the government of the Church. The destructive influence of their example is so extensive, that all the skill and cruelty of Devils can hardly fabricate a greater curse than an irreligious Bishop.
But, people of God, follow after
- Righteousness,
- Godliness,
- Faith,
- Love,
- Patience and
- Meekness.
Advice to the New Bishops
Be an example to the Believers
- in Word,
- in Conversation,
- in Charity,
- in Spirit,
- in Faith,
- in Purity.
Keep that which is committed to your trust.
These are the words of Bishop Thomas Coke, the first bishop of the Methodist Church.
The complete sermon is here.