Preface

Narrator: Chris Genthree
 •  1 min. read  •  grade level: 10
Listen from:
Numerous lives of well-known Christians who have done yeoman service for the Master being in print, it was thought wise to attempt a few brief records of chief men in what has become known as the Brethren Movement.
The scriptural phrase ‘Chief men among the brethren’ (Acts 15:2222Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren: (Acts 15:22)) seemed so appropriate that we have ventured to use it without in any way claiming it as a party or exclusive title.
It indicated brethren known and beloved in the first century who sought to be guided by the Scriptures; it may rightly indicate the leaders in a movement in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Any arrangement as to celebrity, ability, or position has been avoided, and the records placed, as far as possible, in order of year of birth. Much more could have been told concerning each individual but space had ever to be considered. Other names might have been added but the aim has been to select the most representative and the best known.
As far as possible those who actually knew the individual or had first-hand information have supplied the record. This will explain the variety of style, and a little repetition of facts. Initials are given unless in the case of composite records, or where the writer desired to remain anonymous.
Of the 100 records, a photograph of Francis Hutchinson was the only one unobtainable.
HyP.