Conclusion

Abstract

The conclusion summarizes the argument and highlights the potential contributions of the book. Old or New School Methodism? has implications for understanding the beginning of the Church of the Nazarene. This study also has implications for Methodist theological education and diverging understandings of the purpose of theological education. The chapter points to Borden Parker Bowne and Henry Clay Morrison as illustrative of this tension. The conclusion also argues that this study offers a challenge to contemporary big-tent visions for American Methodism, noting that this vision came out of a moment of transition that was seen by Methodists like B.T. Roberts as a betrayal of Methodism’s theological heritage. Finally, it is argued that this study contributes to contemporary Wesleyan/Methodist communities wrestling with their own theological heritage by pointing to the importance of entire sanctification for this tradition and the value of Christian ecumenical engagement outside of Methodism.