Final answer:
The basic unit of Methodist spiritual formation is the Class, which served as small groups for prayer, Bible study, and sharing of religious experiences, reflecting John Wesley's systematic approach to fostering faith and accountability.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basic unit of the Methodist system of spiritual formation is the Class. This small-group structure was designed by John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, as a way to nurture faith and encourage accountability among members. Wesley's approach was practical and methodical, which is reflected in the disciplined and organized nature of these classes.
The primary function of the class meeting was to gather a small group of individuals together regularly for prayer, Bible study, and the sharing of spiritual struggles and progress. This ritual fostered a community focused on personal holiness and social justice, both of which were essential to Wesley's vision of spiritual formation within Methodism. Spiritual growth was achieved through mutual support, guidance, and open discussion of one's faith journey, thereby making these classes the foundational structure for spiritual development in the Methodist tradition.