The term "Brethren" refers to several related Christian groups with roots in different historical and theological traditions.
- The Schwarzenau Brethren (or Church of the Brethren) originated in 1708 in Germany under Alexander Mack. They are Anabaptist in tradition, emphasizing New Testament discipleship, believer's baptism by immersion, pacifism, and simple living. They migrated to America in the 18th century and continue as a denomination stressing peace, love feasts, and the example of Jesus.
- The Plymouth Brethren arose in the early 19th century (around 1825-1830) in Ireland and England, led by figures like John Nelson Darby. They sought a simple, New Testament-based Christian community independent of established churches. The movement split into Open and Exclusive Brethren in the 1840s, the latter being more separatist.
Thus, "the Brethren" broadly describe groups committed to New Testament Christianity with emphasis on simplicity, community, and often pacifism, but the term includes historically and theologically distinct bodies such as the Anabaptist-rooted Church of the Brethren and the evangelical Plymouth Brethren. If a specific "Brethren" group or context is intended, please specify for more focused information.
