Final answer:
John and Charles Wesley, founders of Methodism, experienced a deep religious conversion after reading the works of Martin Luther, specifically regarding the idea of 'Justification by Faith'. Their newfound beliefs led them to preach about a personal relationship with God, which was a cornerstone of Methodist doctrine.
Step-by-step explanation:
Wesley Brothers and Their Conversion
The Wesleys, namely John and Charles Wesley, started their religious lives as members of the Anglican Church. While at Oxford, Charles Wesley established the Holy Club in 1729, which was characterized by its methodical approach to religious practice. This approach led to the coining of the term 'Methodist', which would later identify the Protestant denomination they established. Their dedication to public service and missionary work brought them to the American colonies in the 1730s. Upon their return to England, they encountered Moravian passengers on their voyage, which influenced them to explore the Moravian faith and subsequently the writings of Martin Luther. It was specifically Luther's concept of 'Justification by Faith' that inspired the Wesleys' profound religious conversion in 1738, igniting their passion to preach about a personal and emotional relationship with God.
In addressing the question about the Wesleys' inspiration for their conversion, it is clear that they were influenced by Martin Luther's writings leading to their significant spiritual transformation. Thus, the answer to the question: 'The Wesleys began as Anglicans but were inspired to conversion by the writing of whom?', the response is squarely Martin Luther.