Exclusive Brethren

religious community

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

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The Exclusive Brethren are a Christian community that originated in Plymouth, England, in 1831, with earlier roots in Ireland and England. They emphasize biblical prophecy and the Second Coming of Christ. John Nelson Darby was a key figure who founded groups across the British Isles and continental Europe.

Disputes over doctrine and church governance led to a split, forming the Exclusive Brethren and the Open Brethren. Exclusive Brethren are known for their tightly knit federation of churches and stricter membership standards. Both groups reject a distinct clergy class and hold communion services weekly. They are also active in foreign missionary work.1

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Plymouth Brethren
…churches and were known as Exclusive Brethren; the others, called Open Brethren, maintained a congregational form of church government and less rigorous standards for membership. Exclusive Brethren have suffered further divisions.
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…churches and were known as Exclusive Brethren; the others, called Open Brethren, maintained a congregational form of church government and less rigorous standards for membership. Exclusive Brethren have suffered further divisions.
Read More