ABSTRACT
The introduction sets the scene for the discussion of resignation and establishes the nature of the study as a theological one which explores a significant aspect of the theology of Charles Wesley, primarily through his poetic texts. The introduction indicates the approach of the research and also discusses the use of poetic texts to determine theological truth. It recognises that style, format, metre, and rhythm are central to poetic texts, and notes their use of metaphor and rhyme. Furthermore, the nature of hymn texts as primarily doxological and spiritual in intention is indicated. The concept of resignation is introduced with an explanation of how Charles Wesley uses it. The structure of the book is also outlined, with a brief description given of the contents of the three parts to come.
