Turning the World Upside Down: Paul and Privilege with These People Called Methodist

Paul's witness speaks to a church seeking renewal today. Paul advanced the mission of the church by planting seeds of equity--at times leveraging his privilege for good, at other times laying it aside for the sake of others, and always yearning to hear the often-silenced voices of the marginalized. His life and ministry--both his strengths and his shortcomings--offer vital wisdom for those committed to dismantling false hierarchies of human worth. In a season when The United Methodist Church is seeking a renewed identity after disaffiliation, Turning the World Upside Down invites readers into a deep exploration of the Acts of the Apostles. Through Paul's story, the book offers insight and encouragement for reclaiming our identity as a Spirit-led movement that resists evil, injustice, and oppression in all its forms. Accessible and engaging, this resource will appeal to both clergy and laity who seek biblically grounded and socially conscious study. While it includes specific sections on Methodist history and polity, the themes and lessons extend broadly to all Christians seeking a faithful witness in today's world. Reflection questions are included at the end of each chapter to encourage individual reflection and for small groups to use as discussion starters.

Author: Michael Baughman,Ashley Boggan,Aleze M. Fulbright
Publisher: Abingdon Press
Published: 08/04/2026
Pages: 160
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.39lbs
Size: 8.50h x 5.50w x 0.41d
ISBN13: 9781791041038
ISBN10: 1791041035
BISAC Categories:
- Religion | Christian Education | Adult
- Religion | Biblical Studies | New Testament | Jesus, the Gospels & Acts

About the Author
Michael Baughman (Author)
Michael Baughman is an ordained elder with experience as a church planter, fundraiser, and nonprofit executive in Dallas, Texas. He currently serves as Executive Director, Development & Operations for the General Commission on Archives and History and previously served the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. Mike compiled and edited the book Flipping Church and wrote Worship Feast: Lent & Easter.

Ashley Boggan (Author)
Ashley Boggan is a scholar, laywoman, and currently the General Secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History. In this role, she ensures that The United Methodist Church understands its past in order to envision a more equitable future for all. She is the author of Nevertheless: American Methodists and Women's Rights (2020) and Entangled: A History of American Methodism, Politics, and Sexuality (2018) and contributed to American Methodism: Revised and Updated (2022).

Aleze M. Fulbright (Author)
Aleze M. Fulbright is an ordained elder who has served in varying capacities, including campus minister, leadership development director, district superintendent, and conference superintendent. She currently serves as the Secretary of the General Conference. She is a contributing author in the book Understanding Your Call.