Customer Reviews

Chief Men Among the Brethren (Powerscourt Classic Library)

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Chief Men Among the Brethren provides a fascinating survey into the lives of nineteenth century Christians. Pickering communicates a story about Englishmen and Irishmen of almost ultra apostolic character and lifestyle (but not office ! ) who left fortunes, vocations and clerical positions in the established church to spawn a movement which has had a far reaching (albeit largely unknown) influence on the theology of much of conservative Christianity, Baptists and American Fundamentalists. The format offers pictures and biographies of most of the early "Plymouth Brethren" including the insightful Mr. John Nelson Darby, his colleague, the brilliant William Kelly with his mind for the universe and the ever popular yet poignant C.H.M. (Charles Henry Macintosh). The book serves as an ample historical resource for anyone studying this movement. Yet, shining through this historical sketch is their Biblical theology, their simplicity, their disdain for the clergy and their personal sacrifice and adoration for the ascended Christ. It is clearly written and at times inspirational. It incites the reader to desire to follow on in their footsteps. Indeed, for those seeking spiritual encouragement, Chief Men Among the Brethren describes the lives of men who believed God, walked with God and desired to raise the standard of historic New Testament Christianity beyond the baneful confines of denominational bigotry. Henry Pickering has provided material on their conversion, the circumstances that led to their understanding of the simplicity of gathering alone to the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ on the ground of the Unity of the One Body of Christ (the Church) and separation from the world. In his effort, he does not fail to evoke the excitement of those early days. I highly recommend this excellent resource.