1. THE _distinguishing marks_ of a _Methodist_ are not his _opinions_ of any sort. His assenting to this or that scheme of religion, his embracing any particular set of notions, his espousing the judgment of one man or of another, are all quite wide of the point. Whosoever therefore imagines, that a _Methodist_ is a man of such or such an _opinion_, is grossly ignorant of the whole affair; he mistakes the truth totally. We believe indeed, that _all scripture is given by the inspiration of God_, and herein we are distinguished from _Jews_, _Turks_, and _Infidels_. We believe the written word of God to be the _only and sufficient_ rule, both of Christian faith and practice; and herein we are fundamentally distinguished from those of the _Romish church_. We believe Christ to be the eternal supreme God; and herein we are distinguished from the _Socinians_ and _Arians_. But as to all opinions which do not strike at the root of Christianity, we think and let think. So that whatsoever they are, whether right or wrong, they are no _distinguished marks of a Methodist_. 2. Neither are _words_ or _phrases_ of any sort. We do not place our religion, or any part of it, in being attached to any peculiar mode of speaking, any quaint or ♦uncommon set of expressions. The most obvious, easy, common words, wherein our meaning can be conveyed, we prefer before others, both on ordinary occasions, and when we speak of the things of God. We never therefore willingly or designedly deviate from the most usual way of speaking; unless when we express scripture truths in scripture words, (which we presume no Christian will condemn.) Neither do we affect to use any particular expressions of scripture, more frequently than others, unless they are such as are more frequently used by the inspired writers themselves. So that it is as gross an error, to place the marks of a _Methodist_ in his _words_, as in _opinions_ of any sort. ♦ “common” replaced with “uncommon” per Errata 3. Nor do we desire to be distinguished by _actions_, _customs_, or _usages_, of an _indifferent_ nature. Our religion does not lie in doing what God has not enjoined, or abstaining from what he hath not forbidden. It does not lie in the form of our apparel, in the posture of our body, or the covering of our heads; nor yet in abstaining from marriage, or from meats and drinks, which are all good if received with thanksgiving. Therefore neither will any man who knows whereof he affirms, fix the mark of a _Methodist_ here; in any actions or customs purely indifferent, undetermined by the _word of_ God.