Citizendia

The Brethren are a conservative non-denominational Evangelical Christian movement whose history can be traced to Dublin in the late 1820s. Evangelicalism is a theological movement tradition and system of beliefs most closely associated with Protestant Christianity, which identifies with the Gospel Dublin (ˈdʌblɨn/ /ˈdʊblɨn or /ˈdʊbəlɪn/, bˠalʲə aːha klʲiəh or cliə(ɸ is both the largest city and capital of Ireland. Events and trends Nationalistic independence helped reshape the world during this decade Greece gains independence from the Ottoman Empire [1][2] The title 'The Brethren' is one that many of their number are comfortable with, in that the Bible designates all believers in Christ as 'brethren'. Christians meeting in so-called 'Brethren assemblies' are commonly perceived as being divided into two branches, the Open Brethren and the Exclusive Brethren[3]

Contents

History

Despite what the name might suggest, the "Plymouth" brethren movement did not begin in Plymouth, nor in one particular place, but began almost simultaneously in numerous places including Dublin, London, Plymouth, and on the continent of Europe [4]. The Open Brethren, sometimes called Christian Brethren or " Plymouth Brethren " are a group of Protestant Evangelical Christian The Exclusive Brethren are a subset of the Christian evangelical movement generally described as the Plymouth Brethren. Assemblies were also formed through Leonard Strong on New Testament principles in British Guiana among the slaves circa 1836. [5][6] Those involved in this return to the simplicity of New Testament church principles were, in the beginning, largely unknown to one another, with no direct contact between the various groups. [7]

The movement found its motivation in an abandonment of many of the traditions of Christendom seen in the established Church, and from the beginning, the emphasis was on meeting together only in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, without reference to denominational differences. The Church of England is the officially established Christian church in England, the Mother Church of the worldwide Anglican Early meetings included Christians from a variety of denominations. The general feeling of dissatisfaction towards the established church also led to the formation of the Oxford movement, Irvingism and other contemporary Christian movements. The Oxford Movement or Tractarianism was an affiliation of High Church Anglicans, most of whom were members of the University of Oxford, who sought The term Catholic Apostolic Church belongs to the entire community of Christians (cf Catholic) quoting the last sentence of the Nicene Creed.

One group began by meeting in houses in Ireland and were dubbed 'brethren' because of their practice of calling each other 'brother' instead of the titles favoured by the mainstream denominations. Ireland (pronounced /ˈaɾlənd/ Éire) is the third largest island in Europe, and the twentieth-largest island in the world The first meeting in England was established in December 1831 [8] in Plymouth primarily by George Wigram, Benjamin Wills Newton and John Nelson Darby. England is a Country which is part of the United Kingdom. Its inhabitants account for more than 83% of the total UK population whilst its mainland Year 1831 ( MDCCCXXXI) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Plymouth ( is a city and unitary authority area on the coast of Devon, England about south west of London. George Vicesimus Wigram ( March 29, 1805 - February 1, 1879) was an English biblical scholar and theologian. Benjamin Wills Newton, ( 12 December 1807 - 26 June 1899) was an evangelist and author of Christian books John Nelson Darby, (18 November 1800 - 29 April 1882 was an Anglo-Irish evangelist, and an influential figure among the original Plymouth Brethren. [9] The movement soon spread throughout the UK and by 1845, the assembly in Plymouth had over 1000 in fellowship [10]. The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located Year 1845 ( MDCCCXLV) was a Common year starting on Wednesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian calendar (or a Common These became known as 'The brethren from Plymouth' and were soon simply called the 'Plymouth Brethren'. The term Darbyites has also been used, although is uncommon and refers mainly to the Exclusive branch. Many within the movement refuse to accept any name other than Christians.

The movement gained rapid popularity and spread worldwide. However, divergence of practice and belief led to the development of two separate branches of the movement in 1848 and despite the disparate nature of the movement, assemblies are still often generalized into two main categories: Open Brethren and Exclusive Brethren. The Open Brethren, sometimes called Christian Brethren or " Plymouth Brethren " are a group of Protestant Evangelical Christian The Exclusive Brethren are a subset of the Christian evangelical movement generally described as the Plymouth Brethren.

Some have argued that numbers of brethren have been in decline in the UK since the 1950s, while others argue that assemblies with more progressive approaches have prospered. A blurring of distinctions between assemblies and other non-denominational and house church congregations has occurred as some groups abandon certain principles such as salaried ministry and women's silence. [11] Others have maintained these distinctive principles while updating many traditions and practices, while yet others continue in much the same way as they have for the most part of the 20th Century. The main concentrations of more traditional assemblies in the UK today can be found in Northern Ireland, Scotland, Northern England and parts of the South of England like Hampshire.

Open and Exclusive Brethren

The term "Exclusive" is most commonly used in the media to describe one separatist group known as Taylorites or Taylor-Hales brethren. However, the majority of Christians known as 'brethren' are not in any way connected with the Taylorites who are known for their denial of the eternal sonship of Christ, extreme isolationism, whiskey drinking, refusal to use computers or the internet and a cult like submission to their chosen leader.

With the exception of the separatist Raven-Taylor-Hales Brethren, so-called 'open brethren' and 'exclusive brethren' differ on few theological issues. The Raven-Taylor-Hales Brethren are an austere Protestant Sect, and a branch of the Exclusive Brethren. Some exclusives hold to 'household baptism' as opposed to 'believers' baptism' practised by the 'open brethren'. With the exception of the separatist Taylor-Hales brethren, all assemblies welcome visitors to gospel meetings and other gatherings. Some 'open brethren' assemblies allow any believer to 'break bread' with them. These meetings are said to have an 'open table' approach to strangers. Others believe that only those formally recognised as part of that or another equivalent assembly should break bread. Similarly, practices of reception amongst exclusive assemblies vary - many tending to operate a cautious or 'guarded' approach to reception and others being more liberal. It is felt by many Brethren that the mutual communion of their fellowship with bread and wine can be tainted by those partaking whose hearts are not pure before God. Fellowship in the Lord's Supper is not considered a private matter but a corporate expression, 'Because we, being many, are one loaf, one body; for we all partake of that one loaf. ' 1 Corinthians 10:17 a further verse that Brethren refer to is 'Shall two walk together except they be agreed?' Amos 3:3. Many, both Closed and Open brethren hold that association with evil defiles and that the communion meal can bring that association. Their support text is from 1 Corinthians 15:33 'Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. '

A clearer difference between Open and Exclusive assemblies is in the nature of relationships between meetings. Open Brethren meetings are generally local assemblies that are autonomous but often informally linked with each other. Exclusive Brethren are generally "connexional" and so recognize the obligation to recognize and adhere to the disciplinary actions of other associated assemblies. One practical result of this might be that, amongst Open Brethren, should a member be "disciplined" in one assembly, other assemblies may feel free to allow the member to break bread with them, if they are not concerned by whatever caused the disciplinary action. A numerically small movement known as the Needed Truth Brethren emerged out of the Open Brethren around 1892 partially in an attempt to address the problem of making discipline more effective. Needed Truth Brethren, as they are sometimes known call themselves “ The Churches of God in the Fellowship of the Son of God the Lord Jesus Christ "

Reasons for being put under discipline by both the Open and Exclusive Brethren include gross doctrinal error and sexual immorality (including adulterous, homosexual or premarital sex). Adultery is the voluntary Sexual intercourse between a married person and another person who is not his or her Spouse, though in many places it is Homosexuality refers to sexual behavior with or attraction to people of the same sex or to a Homosexual orientation. In Exclusive meetings, a member "under discipline" in one Assembly would not be accepted in another Assembly, as the elders generally respect the decisions made by elders of other Assemblies. As Exclusives have developed into a number of different branches, often when there was not universal agreement amongst the assemblies in a specific case of excommunication, a particular act of discipline may not be recognised by all assemblies.

Another, less clear, difference between assemblies lies in their approach to collaborating with other Christians. Some Open Brethren will hold Gospel meetings, youth events or other activities in partnership with Evangelical Christian churches, while others (and perhaps the majority of Exclusive Brethren) tend not to support activities outside their own meetings.

Since the formation of the Exclusives in 1848 there have been a great number of sub-divisions into separate groups, but most groups have since re-joined with the exception of the separatist Taylor-Hales groups who practise extreme separation and whom other brethren generally believe to be a cult. Except for this group, the so-called exclusives (closed brethren) prefer not be known by any name.

Both Open and Exclusive assemblies generally maintain relations within their respective groups through common support of missionaries, area conferences, and the ministry of travelling preachers.

Characteristics

The Plymouth Brethren are basically conservative evangelical Christians, generally dispensational and cessationists in their theology, and have much in common with other conservative evangelical Christian groups. Dispensationalism is a Christian theological view of history and Biblical interpretation that became popular during the 1800s and early 1900s and is In Christian Theology, cessationism is the view that the Charismatic Gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as tongues, Prophecy They believe in the eternal security of the true believer with each believer being subject to grace and not law. Perseverance of the saints is a controversial Christian teaching that none who are truly saved can be condemned for their Sins or finally fall away from the faith [12] In the Open Brethren meetings, each local assembly is independent and autonomous, and therefore the characteristics of each may differ to a greater or lesser degree and therefore describing distinctive characteristics is made difficult. Exclusive Brethren meetings are more affiliated to one another, but characterising their meetings is made difficult due to the fact that over the years they have split many times into many divisions. Essentially, therefore, the Brethren have no central hierarchy to dictate a statement of faith, and even local Assemblies tend not to give tacit adherence to any of the historic Creeds and Confessions of Faith such as are found in many Protestant denominations. This is not because they are opposed to the central sentiments and doctrines expressed in such formulations, but rather because they hold the Bible as their sole authority in regard to matters of doctrine and practice.

Like many non-conformist churches, Brethren observe only the two ordinances of Baptism and Communion. In Christianity, baptism ( Greek, "immersing" "performing Ablutions " is the ritual act with the use of water by which one is admitted Brethren generally adhere to the practice of full immersion baptism for believers, with the exception of some Exclusive Brethren who practice household baptism.

Their notable differences lie in a number of doctrinal beliefs that affect the practice of their gatherings and behaviour. These difference can be summarized as follows:[13]

Avoidance of traditional symbols

Traditionally, meetings would not have a cross displayed inside or outside their place of worship as the focus is on Christ and the Word of God. Christ is the English term for the Greek ( Khristós) meaning "the anointed " [14] The Plymouth Brethren view is that an unembellished room is more effective. [15][16] Crosses are not typically placed inside homes or worn around the neck. Other symbols used by other denominations have been traditionally discouraged. Their meeting places sometimes have Bible names e. g. Ebenezer, Hebron, Shiloh and Bethel. Services do not follow a set liturgy nor the liturgical calendar of "high church" groups such as the Anglican or Lutheran churches.

Fellowship, not membership

Traditionally the assemblies have rejected the concept of anyone "joining" as a member of a particular local gathering of believers, and the maintenance of any list of such members. [17] Brethren emphasize the Christian doctrine of the one 'Church' made up of all believers and enumerated in heaven in "The Lamb's Book of Life" rather than by humans. However, as a practical matter, many open U. S. assemblies, by the late 20th century, did maintain informal lists of those in regular attendance at services. This was often to comply with secular governance issues or to offer a directory of attendees for internal use. The Open Brethren emphasize that meeting attendance for the nonbeliever has no direct spiritual benefit (though it is hoped the individual may be influenced to convert). Nonbelievers are not to partake of the breaking of bread, though this proves generally difficult to enforce in larger open assemblies. Regardless, regular attendance for the believer is an act of obedience to the New Testament command that believers should not neglect assembling together.

No clergy

While much of typical Brethren theology closely parallels non-Calvinist English and American Baptist traditions on many points, the view on clergy is much closer to the Radical wing of the Protestant Reformation in rejecting the idea of clergy. Calvinism (sometimes called the Reformed tradition, the Reformed faith, or Reformed theology) is a theological system and an approach to the Baptist is a term describing individuals belonging to a Baptist church or a Baptist denomination. The Protestant Reformation was a reform movement in Europe that began in 1517 though its roots lie further back in time Clergy is the generic term used to describe the formal religious leadership within a given Religion. Many Protestant denominations claim adherence to the New Testament doctrine of the "priesthood of all believers" to varying extents. The Plymouth Brethren embrace the most extensive form of that idea: there is no ordained or unordained person or group employed to function as a minister or pastor. However, the Plymouth Brethren, as a movement, cannot claim full adherence to the doctrine of the "priesthood of all believers". [18] Due to the autonomous nature of the Open Brethren assemblies, each assembly is able, and sometimes does, adhere fully to the doctrine. The spiritual leaders of Plymouth Brethren assemblies or meetings are called Elders and sometimes more practical leaders called Deacons are identified. The term "elder" is based on the same Scriptures that are used to justify "bishops" in other Christian circles. [19] There are nearly always more than one elder and although officially naming and designating eldership is common in the Open Brethren, there are many Exclusive assemblies who believe that granting a man the title of "elder" is too close to having clergy, and therefore a group of "leading brothers," none of whom has an official title of any kind, attempts to present issues to the entire group, for it to decide upon, believing that the whole group must decide, not merely a body of elders. (As in all Exclusive Brethren meetings, women are generally not permitted to speak at these meetings at which the entire group makes "assembly decisions. ")

Plymouth Brethren groups generally recognize, from the teachings of Paul's epistles, that people are not all suited to the same role. [20] They believe that each believer receives at least one specific gift and that those gift(s) should be employed within the assembly. [21]

As a practical matter, many Open assemblies have come to embrace the need to financially compensate an individual who has made pastoral work and public speaking his full-time occupation, and these people are sometimes salaried. Such an individual may be termed a "full-time worker" (or a "labouring brother" or "on the Lord's work"). At a given assembly, there may be no full-time workers, one, or several. It is generally up to the elders and dependent on the availability of such an individual and the financial means of the assembly. Some Exclusive Assemblies 'commend' men who are dedicated to the work of preaching. Although they usually do not receive a salary as such, gifts are often given to them by the separate assemblies.

Traditionally the assemblies have placed an emphasis on New Testament passages that seem to deny speaking and teaching roles to women, except when working with children or with other women. Some women may also be full-time workers, but their efforts are often limited to these areas or to supporting roles.

Women are generally not allowed to participate in individual speech during the breaking of bread service. It is not strictly accurate to say that the assemblies reject the ordination of women. The assemblies reject the concept of ordination altogether. As a substitute practice, a full-time worker often receives a "commendation" to service that demonstrates the blessing and support of the assembly of origin, but does not connote a transfer of any special spiritual authority. In some groups, both men and women may be commended to service, but the role of women is limited. In recent years some American assemblies have loosened the rules on women participating, though others have reacted by placing more emphasis on this traditional teaching.

Weekly Remembrance Meeting

A distinctive practice of the Brethren is a separate weekly communion meeting, referred to as 'The Breaking of Bread' or 'The Lord's Supper'. Although specific practices will vary from meeting to meeting, there are general similarities.

Other Sunday meetings

Following the remembrance meeting, there may be one other Sunday meeting, or perhaps more. Whereas the purpose of the Lord's Supper is predominantly for worship, recalling the person and work of Christ, other meetings will involve Bible teaching, evangelism and gospel preaching (among young and old). Sunday Schools and Bible Classes are common. In ministry and gospel meetings the congregation, seated in rows facing a pulpit or platform, will sing hymns and choruses, and listen to scripture readings and a sermon preached by one of the gifted brethren. Bible teaching may be given either in the form of a ministry meeting in which a sermon is delivered or in a 'Bible reading' or 'Bible study' in which the men discuss a portion of Scripture.

No solicitation for funds

The assemblies do not take up an offering during their meetings, except at the breaking of bread, but even then only those in fellowship are expected to give. Tithing - giving 10% of one's income - is seen as a Mosaic requirement not applicable to the church. Instead, the amount given is left to the giver and is a private matter between the individual and the Lord. [24]

One reason for not taking up an offering at all meetings is to avoid causing any unbelievers who may be present to think that they might gain a spiritual benefit by making a donation. Some assemblies never send an offering bag round the congregation even at the breaking of bread preferring to simply have a box or two located at the back of the meeting hall, thus avoiding even the appearance of solicitation for funds. Many assemblies operate a 'back seat' or 'guest row' during the breaking of bread, so that neither the offering bag nor the emblems of bread and wine will not pass down the row of those not in fellowship.

No salaried ministry

See comments on clergy above. Most assemblies are guided by a group of unordained (for ordination is anathema to Plymouth Brethren because it does not appear in the New Testament and because ordination appears to unblblically separate believers into distinct classes [25]) overseers or elders. The elders conduct many duties that would be typically performed by clergy of more orthodox Christian groups, including: counselling those who have decided to be baptised, performing baptisms, visiting the sick and giving general spiritual advice. Some Open assemblies, especially the larger assemblies in North America, have salaried staff, including some designated as "Teaching Elders" or "Teaching Pastors. " Normally, sermons are given by both elders and other members of the meeting. Visiting speakers, however, are usually paid to cover expenses such as the cost of travel. Full-Time missionaries are often financially supported by assemblies known by them, particularly their home assemblies.

Separate roles of men and women

There is no distinction made in Brethren teaching between men and women in their individual relation to Christ or position before God as believers. However, in most Brethren meetings, the principle of male "headship" is applied in accordance with teaching found in 1 Corinthians chapter 11, verse 3 and elsewhere in the Bible. 1 Corinthians 11:3 says:

But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.

From this, Brethren teaching traditionally (there are regional exceptions) outlines a system in which the men take the "vocal" and leadership roles, and the women take supportive and "silent" roles. In practical terms, what is traditionally seen is the men being fully responsible for all preaching, teaching, and leading of worship. Therefore, in most Brethren groups, women will be heard to sing the hymns along with the group, but their voices will not otherwise be heard during the service. Often the men are, practically speaking, the only ones involved fully and vocally in all discussions leading up to administrative decision making as well. Within Exclusive groups in particular, matters up for debate may be discussed at special meetings attended solely by adult males, called, in some groups "Brothers meetings. "

As to the reason behind women covering their heads in some groups, 1 Corinthians 11:5,6 says:

But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. 6 For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.

For this reason, some meetings will be characterised by the women wearing head coverings ("loaners" in some places are available at the back, for women who have come without a covering). It is not traditional, however, for Brethren groups to insist that women who are "not covered" be "shorn" or "shaven," despite the wording of 1 Corinthians 11:6. Head coverings typically take the form of a tam, beret, or similar hat which can be more aptly described as a "head topping" rather than as covering the head in any real way. A beret (ber-HET in French or /ˈBer-EHT/ in English, except in the USA, where it is usually pronounced /ber-EHT is a soft round Cap, usually Sisters in Exclusive gatherings quite commonly wear a headscarf or "mantilla" (a lace/doily-like Spanish veil) on their heads. A mantilla is "a lightweight lace or silk scarf worn over the head and shoulders often over a high comb by women in Spain and Latin America" ( The American Heritage Dictionary It is a fairly common misconception that Exclusive women characteristically wear a shawl over their heads, though no doubt individual women may at one time or other have resorted to this.

Further, due to the wording of 1 Corinthians 11:3 and some other passages, in regards to family relationships, in many groups, wives are expected to "be in subjection unto their own husband as unto the Lord", husbands are to "love their wives even as Christ loved the Church" and children are to "obey their parents in the Lord" as stated in the Letter to the Ephesians. There is no controversy over the last two phrases, though there may be over the first.

Over recent years the practice in some Open and Closed Brethren assemblies throughout the world has developed to leave questions of head coverings, levels of female participation and responsibility mainly to the discretion of individual people and groups.

Some Brethren of both Open and Exclusive persuasion seek to be completely untouched by changing attitudes within society regarding the role of women. They view the abandonment of the traditionally practised doctrine of "headship" as evidence of an overall apostasy (or moral deterioration) within Christendom, and as leading to disorder and eventual ecclesiastical anarchy.

Non charismatic

Assembly meetings hold a cessationist view in regards to charismatic gifts. In Christian Theology, cessationism is the view that the Charismatic Gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as tongues, Prophecy Spiritual gifts (or Charismata, according to some Christian denominations such as Pentecostal, are gifts that are bestowed on Christians each having his or her It has been known, however, for individuals to leave an assembly to meet with other Christians who hold charismatic views. Conversely, it has been known for Christians leaving a charismatic circle and meeting up with a brethren assembly after being unconvinced of the reality of the gifts being displayed. It has also been known for an Open meeting to split over charismatic/non charismatic disagreements. Exclusive meetings are firmly aligned to the teachings of John Nelson Darby and his followers and therefore more tied down to a cessationist view. John Nelson Darby, (18 November 1800 - 29 April 1882 was an Anglo-Irish evangelist, and an influential figure among the original Plymouth Brethren.

In the UK, Smith Wigglesworth and W F Burton left Brethren assemblies and became well known pentecostalists. Smith Wigglesworth (1859 - 1947 was a British religious figure and an important figure in the early history of Pentecostalism. Pentecostalism is a renewalist religious movement within Christianity that places special emphasis on the direct personal experience of God through the Baptism In the 1960s Arthur Wallis [26] and David Lillie personally became convinced of the validity of spiritual gifts and formed in effect a hybrid, Pentecostalised Brethrenism, with what they consider as New Testament styles of church government. Arthur Wallis may refer to A pseudonym of British actor and writer Nicholas Briggs Arthur Wallis (wrestler, British Olympic wrestler Roger Forster[27], the founder of Ichthus Christian Fellowship, and Gerald Coates [28], another eminent leader in the charismatic movement, also originated from the brethren. Ichthus Christian Fellowship is a Christian church movement based in London United Kingdom.

Many Christian leaders now outside of the assemblies appear to have benefited from assembly fellowship earlier in their lives.

Other practices

Gatherings and meetings

Assemblies might also have weekly meetings which might include: preaching/teaching services, missionary reports, bible studies and prayer meetings. There is frequently a Sunday School for children and youth groups for teens. Although women do not verbally participate in the Breaking of Bread service, in some groups they take part in Sunday School, teach classes, conduct ladies meetings, and are generally very active in "Camp" work.

Music

During the weekly breaking of bread service, hymns are traditionally sung unaccompanied by any musical instrument, though some assemblies may have instrumental accompaniment. A cappella (Italian or Latin "From the chapel/choir" Music is Vocal music or Singing without instrumental Accompaniment A musical instrument is a device constructed or modified for the purpose of making Music. In some assemblies, hymns sung during the other types of meeting are accompanied by piano or electronic organ, though this practice varies from place to place. The piano is a Musical instrument played by means of a keyboard that produces sound by striking steel strings with Felt covered hammers An electronic organ is an Electronic keyboard instrument originally designed to imitate the sound of a Pipe organ. Other musical instruments are used at some assemblies. Some assemblies blend traditional hymns with contemporary praise & worship music accompanied by bands. One of the unifying features in each of the different branches of the Brethren is a common hymnbook. A hymn is a type of Song, usually religious specifically written for the purpose of praise adoration or Prayer, and typically addressed to a deity/deities The first collection used among the united assemblies was "Hymns for the Poor of the Flock", 1838 and again 1840. Another such hymnbook, used by exclusive brethren (Tunbridge-Wells and Ames) dates back to 1856 is called, Hymns for the Little Flock, the first edition of which was compiled by G. Year 1856 ( MDCCCLVI) was a Leap year starting on Tuesday (link will display the full calendar of the Gregorian Calendar (or a Leap year V. Wigram a revision was made in 1881 by J N Darby. Also widely used among open brethren are "Believers Hymnbook", "Hymns of Light and Love" "Echoes of Grace" and "Hymns of Worship and Remembrance", sometimes known simply as "the black book".

Influence

The influence of the Plymouth Brethren upon evangelical Christianity exceeds their relatively small numerical proportion. The movement today has many congregations around the world.

A number of doctrines that are now widely held within evangelical circles were first introduced by the Brethren or were promoted and propagated by the Brethren. In no particular order these include [29]:

Christian Missions in Many Lands (CMML) in the United States, Missionary Service Committee (MSC) in Canada and Echoes of Service in the United Kingdom, serve as support agencies for Brethren missionaries, helping with logistics and material support. Dispensationalism is a Christian theological view of history and Biblical interpretation that became popular during the 1800s and early 1900s and is The United States of America —commonly referred to as the Country to "Dominion of Canada" or "Canadian Federation" or anything else please read the Talk Page Echoes of Service is a missionary support agency founded in 1872 based in Bath, UK The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the United Kingdom, the UK or Britain,is a Sovereign state located These agencies help to equip and support those sent from local churches. Hudson Taylor, the founder of the China Inland Mission, kept strong ties with the Open Brethren, even though he was raised a Methodist and later a member of a Baptist Church. Youth and early work Taylor was born in Barnsley, Yorkshire, England, the son of a chemist ( Pharmacist) and Methodist OMF International (formerly Overseas Missionary Fellowship and before that the China Inland Mission before 1964 is an interdenominational Methodism is a movement within Protestant Christianity represented by a number of denominations and organizations Baptist is a term describing individuals belonging to a Baptist church or a Baptist denomination. The concept of 'Faith Missions' can be traced back through Hudson Taylor to the example of the early Brethren missionary, Anthony Norris Groves. Biography Early life Groves was born in Newton Valance, Hampshire, England

J. N. Darby, one of the original members and perhaps the most well known of the movement, wrote over fifty books including a translation of the New Testament and is often credited with the development of the theology of dispensationalism. John Nelson Darby, (18 November 1800 - 29 April 1882 was an Anglo-Irish evangelist, and an influential figure among the original Plymouth Brethren. Dispensationalism is a Christian theological view of history and Biblical interpretation that became popular during the 1800s and early 1900s and is

Many leaders of the contemporary evangelical movement came from Brethren backgrounds. These include Geoff Tunnicliffe, CEO of the World Evangelical Alliance; the late British scholar F.F. Bruce; Brian McLaren of the Emerging Church movement; 1950s Auca missionary martyrs Ed McCully, Jim Elliot, Peter Fleming, and Roger Youderian; Walter Liefeld, NT professor at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School; Jim Wallis, American Christian activist and founder of Sojourners Magazine; and the late preacher Dr. The World Evangelical Alliance (WEA is a global association with its leadership office in Vancouver Canada which serves as a network for evangelical organizations and Frederick Fyvie Bruce ( 12 October 1910 – 11 September 1990) was a Bible scholar and one of the founders of the modern evangelical Brian D McLaren is a prominent controversial voice in the Emerging church movement The emerging church (sometimes referred to as the emergent church movement) is a Christian movement whose participants seek to live their faith in modern society by The 1950s Decade refers to the years of 1950 to 1959 inclusive The term martyr ( Greek μάρτυς martys "witness" is most commonly used today to describe an individual who sacrifices their life (or personal freedom Edward "Ed" McCully (1927 &ndash 1956 was an evangelical Christian Missionary to Ecuador who along with four other missionaries Philip James Elliot ( October 8, 1927 &ndash January 8, 1956) was an evangelical Christian Missionary to Peter Sillence Fleming (1928-1956 was an evangelical Christian Missionary to Ecuador who along with four others was Roger Youderian of Armenian descent ( January 21, 1924 &ndash January 8, 1956) was an evangelical Christian Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS is an evangelical Christian seminary located in Deerfield Illinois. The Reverend Jim Wallis (b June 4 1948, Detroit Michigan) is an evangelical Christian writer and political activist best known as the founder Sojourners Magazine, a monthly publication of the Christian social justice organization Sojourners was first published in 1971 under the original title of The Post-American. Harry A. Ironside who wrote the Historical Sketch of the Brethren Movement. Henry Allen "Harry" Ironside (October 14 1876-January 15 1951 was a Bible teacher preacher pastor and author in the late 19th- and early 20th centuries Radio personality Garrison Keillor was raised among the Plymouth Brethren, whom he sometimes refers to as the 'sanctified brethren' in his News from Lake Wobegon monologues. Gary Edward "Garrison" Keillor (born August 7, 1942) is an American Author, Storyteller, Humorist, Peter Maiden,the current leader of Operation Mobilization, also came from the brethren. Operation Mobilisation is an Evangelical Christian organization founded by George Verwer to mobilise young people to live and share the Gospel Operation Mobilisation is an Evangelical Christian organization founded by George Verwer to mobilise young people to live and share the Gospel [30]

Since 2004, the separatist Raven-Taylor-Hales Exclusive Brethren have become politically active. Formerly, they embraced non-involvement 'in the things of the world' because they are 'citizens of heaven'. These heterodox Taylor Exclusive Brethren have been responsible for the production and distribution of political literature in Australian, United States, Swedish, Canadian and New Zealand national elections. [31] For more details, see Exclusive Brethren. The Exclusive Brethren are a subset of the Christian evangelical movement generally described as the Plymouth Brethren. These Taylor Brethren are atypical of other streams of Plymouth Brethren which distance themselves from the Taylorites. Many mainstream assemblies discourage political involvement, sometimes to the extent of not voting in democratic elections [32]. A criticism could be levelled that the movement, with its upper class roots, lacks compassion for the plight of the underprivileged. For example, it was left to William Wilberforce and other politically active Christians to work towards the abolishment of slavery in the 19th Century. William Wilberforce (24 August 1759 – 29 July 1833 was a British Politician, a Philanthropist However, this can be viewed as unfair criticism when reflecting on the light of George Müller's ministry caring for homeless orphans and also on some of the sacrifices of its missionaries such as Anthony Norris Groves. George Fredrick Müller (German Georg Friedrich Müller) ( September 27, 1805 &ndash March 10, 1898) a Christian Biography Early life Groves was born in Newton Valance, Hampshire, England It is more reasonable to state that the brethren are more concerned with the spiritual rather than the physical condition, but where physical help is given, it is tended to be done directly and not through secular organisations.

Notable members

Film portrayal

The Exclusive Hales branch of the Plymouth Brethren are portrayed in the film Son of Rambow as trying to restrict the creativity and freedom of the film's main character. Edward Wilson may refer to Edward Adrian Wilson (1872–1912 English Antarctic explorer Edward Osborne Wilson (b Major-General Orde Charles Wingate, DSO and two bars ( February 26, 1903 &ndash March 24, 1944) was a Son of Rambow is a 2007 Comedy-drama film written and directed by Garth Jennings. The Plymouth Brethren also feature in the book Oscar and Lucinda by [Peter Carey], and in the film adaptation. Oscar and Lucinda is a Novel by Peter Carey, which won the 1988 Booker Prize, and the 1989 Miles Franklin Award. Oscar is raised by a strict Plymouth Brethren father, and rebels by becoming an Anglican priest.

Notes and references

  1. ^ Ekoinonia
  2. ^ H. G. Mackay. "Assembly Distinctives". Everyday Publications Inc. 1981.
  3. ^ http://pnavce.tripod.com/brethrenhistory/id2.html Schematic Diagram of Brethren History]
  4. ^ William Blair Neatby, A History of the Plymouth Brethren (2nd ed. ; London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1902), p. 24
  5. ^ T. C. F. Stunt, "Leonard Strong: The motives and experiences of early missionary work in British Guiana," Christian Brethren Review 34 (1984): 95-105.
  6. ^ plymouthbrethren.org: Strong , Leonard Bio
  7. ^ H. G. Mackay. "Assembly Distinctives". Everyday Publications Inc. 1981.
  8. ^ Chapter 4 'The Emergence of the Plymouth Brethen' in 'A Story of Conflict : The Controversial Relationship between Benjamin Wills Newton and John Nelson Darby' by Jonathan Burnham, Paternoster Press, 2004,ISBN 1-84227-191-1
  9. ^ E. A. Livingstone. "The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church". Oxford University Press. 2000.
  10. ^ The History of the Brethren by Napolean Noel p. 46
  11. ^ G. Brown. "Whatever Happened to the Brethren?" Partnership, Paternoster Press. 2003.
  12. ^ Which Is Stronger: Law Or Grace?
  13. ^ Harold G. Mackay. "Assembly Distinctives". Everyday Publications Inc. 1981.
  14. ^ http://www.assemblycare.org/library/books/WHTFOUND.pdf
  15. ^ http://www.pembrokebiblechapel.com/pdf/TheBrethrenAndrewMiller.pdf - page 10
  16. ^ What I have Found
  17. ^ Who are the brethren
  18. ^ The Priesthood of All Believers
  19. ^ Elders And Bishops
  20. ^ http://www.blueletterbible.org/cgi-bin/tools/printer-friendly.pl?book=Eph&chapter=4&version=NKJV#11 Eph 4 v 11
  21. ^ Precious Seed
  22. ^ The Mystery Worshipper: Downshire Road Hall, Holywood, County Down, Northern Ireland
  23. ^ http://www.bruederbewegung.de/pdf/embley.pdf
  24. ^ Precious Seed
  25. ^ Defining Religion In American Law
  26. ^ Lausanne World Pulse - House Churches in the United Kingdom
  27. ^ The Spiritual Gifts of the Holy Spirit - Did They Cease When the Apostles Died?
  28. ^ <http://www.christian-witness.org/archives/van1997/gcoates_2.html
  29. ^ Plymouth Brethren FAQ
  30. ^ Who is Peter Maiden? - OM International
  31. ^ Marr, David. "Hidden prophets", Sydney Morning Herald, 2006-07-01. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. "July 1st" redirects here For the Ayumi Hamasaki song see H (song. Retrieved on 2006-07-01. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. "July 1st" redirects here For the Ayumi Hamasaki song see H (song.  
  32. ^ Precious Seed
  33. ^ Cullen, Pamela V. , "A Stranger in Blood: The Case Files on Dr John Bodkin Adams", London, Elliott & Thompson, 2006, ISBN 1-904027-19-9
  34. ^ Sir Robert Anderson and Daniel 9
  35. ^ Dr Thomas John Barnardo: homes, schools and other works
  36. ^ The Septuagint LXX
  37. ^ BBC - Religion & Ethics - Exclusive Brethren: Introduction
  38. ^ The Times, Sept 28 1942 - Carlile's obituary
  39. ^ Brother Indeed - Robert Chapman « Articles & Links
  40. ^ Edward Cronin (1801-?) — Pioneers of homeopathy by T. L. Bradford
  41. ^ The Times, Feb. The Times is a daily national Newspaper published in the United Kingdom since 1785 when it was known as The Daily Universal Register. The Times is a daily national Newspaper published in the United Kingdom since 1785 when it was known as The Daily Universal Register. 21 1977 - Crosland's obituary
  42. ^ The Confessions by Aleister Crowley
  43. ^ The Brethren Writers' Hall of Fame
  44. ^ http://www.dnzb.govt.nz
  45. ^ Papers of Philip James Elliot - Collection 277
  46. ^ About Anthony Norris Groves
  47. ^ Dictionary of Canadian Biography Online
  48. ^ John Haigh: The Acid Bath Murderer - Famous Criminal - Homepage - Crime And Investigation Network
  49. ^ Cult Help and Information - Roots of Hendricks' religion traced
  50. ^ http://www.gotell.gracenet.org/m_harry_ironside.htm
  51. ^ Radiocarbon Dating and American Evangelical Christians
  52. ^ A Brief History of the Modern American Creation Movement
  53. ^ emergent-us: Brian McLaren on "Becoming Convergent" - Part 1 of 3
  54. ^ Charles Henry Mackintosh Bio
  55. ^ History
  56. ^ Biography - Thomas Newberry
  57. ^ http://sof.wellington.net.nz/maindonald0501.doc
  58. ^ Mr. Newton and the "Brethren"
  59. ^ The Times, April 23 1962 - Page's obituary
  60. ^ El Predicador Bilingue (The Bilingual Preacher) By John M. DeMarco - Charisma Magazine
  61. ^ Cult Help and Information - Father Ostracised by Sect Axed Family to Death
  62. ^ W. The Times is a daily national Newspaper published in the United Kingdom since 1785 when it was known as The Daily Universal Register. Melville Capper and Douglas Johnson, "Arthur Rendle Short", Inter Varsity, 1954
  63. ^ Behind Closed Doors
  64. ^ http://www.wordsearchbible.com/
  65. ^ Albert Hibbert, "Smith Wiggleworth - The Secret of His Power",ISBN 1 85240 004 8
  66. ^ GV Wigram Bio
  67. ^ My Brethren - History

Bibliography

For hostile criticism:

Other sources of information are writings by B. W. Newton and W. Kelly.

See also

External links

There is no single official website that represents the movement as a whole. The Open Brethren, sometimes called Christian Brethren or " Plymouth Brethren " are a group of Protestant Evangelical Christian The assemblies of the Open Brethren movement that generally call their building a " Gospel Hall " Needed Truth Brethren, as they are sometimes known call themselves “ The Churches of God in the Fellowship of the Son of God the Lord Jesus Christ " The Exclusive Brethren are a subset of the Christian evangelical movement generally described as the Plymouth Brethren.

Open Brethren

Exclusive Brethren

Brethren Of 1827

Sites critical of the Exclusive Brethren

Research libraries

The John Rylands University Library (JRUL is the University of Manchester 's library and information service The University of Manchester is a " red brick " civic University located in Manchester, England.
© 2009 citizendia.org; parts available under the terms of GNU Free Documentation License, from http://en.wikipedia.org