Background and Development of Brethren Doctrines, 1650-1987

by Dale R. Stoffer

The Background & Development of Brethren Doctrine 1650-1987 is an extensive (327 pages) book, written by Dale R. Stoffer. It represents the best information now available on the movements which shaped the Brethren, especially Pietism & Anabaptism. Three theologians whose views shaped the Brethren movement are Alexander Mack (first Brethren minister), Peter Nead (leading 19th century churchman), & J. Allen Miller (prominent Brethren Church leader). Liberalism & fundamentalism are discussed, particularly in light of their impact upon the Brethren bodies. The divisions of the 1880s are thoroughly studied. This comprehensive monograph provides the best current analysis & orientation for the understanding the roots & fruits of the several Brethren denominations. The book includes an index of scripture references; persons, places & institutions, & theological subjects.

327 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dale has done an excellent job of writing about the development of Brethren theological thought. I think this is probably the first effort of its kind. The book was published by the Brethren Encyclopedia Foundation, and is a beautiful book to hold in your hands and read. I first met Dale many years ago at a World Brethren Assembly. Dale served as Professor of Historical Theology from 1992-2017 and Academic Dean from 2001-2012 of Ashland Theological Seminary. Since I grew up in the Church of the Brethren I found it interesting to view the tradition from the perspective of someone who grew up in the Brethren Church. Our common heritage was very familiar, but the book really became interesting to me when I started reading the section about the split that occurred in the 1880's. Especially interesting was Stoffer's description of the split that occurred between the Ashland Brethren and the Grace Brethren. As a pastor I had this volume as a reference book on my shelf, but now that I'm retired I finally read it from cover to cover. Unfortunately I have the first edition, and Dale has revised this book in a second edition that covers the period from 1987 to 2015. I'm sure I would find that interesting, but I'm not sure I'll spend the $62 required to read it. Maybe I can borrow a copy from the library. One final comment I would make. The section describing the split between the Ashland and Grace groups is very similar to the issues dividing brothers and sisters in the Church of the Brethren today. I found Dale's conclusions in the final section very helpful, and I think they could be instructive to those who have ears to hear and a heart to listen.