FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

*What is the “Recovery of the Truth”?
*What does the term “Minister Of The Lord in The Recovery” mean?
*Does this mean effectively that the Minister of the Lord in the Recovery is the only person who
  can say who is in the church and who is not?
*Doesn’t this mean legally or practically that the Minister of the Lord in the Recovery runs all the
  property trusts and funds?
*What do the terms “elect vessel” and “man of God” mean?
*Has the Brethren approach to technology changed in recent years, and why?
*What was the purpose of the “relocation for the testimony”?
*Are government funds provided to Brethren schools used properly?
*Brethren schools are not for profit entities, there have been reports they operate companies,
  is this true?
*How are the Brethren schools funded?
*Are schools funds diverted to other entities as suggested by some?
*People have suggested that government funds granted to Australian schools have
  been sent to countries overseas to prop up the Brethren schools in those countries?
  Is this a breach of the funding guidelines?
*Do you keep adequate financial records to demonstrate the schools are operating within the
  parameters of the legislation?
*What is the Brethren Church’s position on sexual abuse?
*Does the Church or its leaders cover up sex abuse and other illegal activities?
*Are the Brethren a Cult?
*Why aren’t students allowed to go to University, yet you are free to use university trained people?
*Are Brethren disciplined for going to University?
*Are the Police investigating the Church for election activity?
*How could computers and cell phones have been evil when you now use them?
*How do you explain all the Ministry that was against technology?
*People lost jobs and were withdrawn from because of technology, how can something that was
  evil then not be now?
*How will the Man of Sin utilize IT?
*Why did the Brethren change their minds on fax machines?
*What do you say to allegations made by several former members that they were asked by the
  church to carry cash gifts into foreign countries, gifts that exceeded the legal limits imposed in
  the countries concerned?
*Do the leaders of the Brethren get given large amounts of tax free money and tithes each month?
*Is the ministry of any of the churches leaders equal to scripture?
*Do you believe that the Lord has chosen Mr Bruce Hales as his sole representative on earth to
  lead the church on earth until the rapture?
*How much of the brethren’s belief, is based on the idea that their leader is God's only
  representative on earth in the current day.
*Is the leader the only person capable of interpreting scripture and past ministry to suit the present?
*Is Mr Hales infallible, are his words law to the Brethren?
*How is the leader appointed?
*You say there is no overall corporate controlling entity, however how do you explain that the
  Minister of the Lord in the Recovery is used as a legal term to decide who is in the church
  or out and what happens to things if there is a rift within the group.
*Is there an overall leadership structure, spoken or not?
*How are funds properly controlled?
*Are all Brethren businesses controlled by National Office Assist or Brethren leaders?
*Are Brethren the only ones who will be saved?
*If others are to be saved why do you have to live such strict lives?
*Do you believe that the rapture is going to happen when all governments are conservative ones?
*What do you say to people who claim Bruce Hales wants to see John Howard elected
  and other conservative governments so the second coming of Jesus Christ is hastened?
*Do the Brethren consider themselves Philadelphia and the rest of the churches those
  mentioned in the book of Revelation?
*Are all outsiders considered evil?
*There are some who would say that the Brethren businesses may not use tax havens but they
  structure their businesses in many cases  as charities or provide significant funds to the church
  through their own charitable trust.
  What do you say to those who say this is just another way of tax avoidance?
*If someone is gifted funds regularly and it becomes their main income, isn’t this taxable income?
*It is reported that Brethren charities manipulate the taxation laws, what do you say to that?
*What involvement will the members of the church have in the upcoming  2007 Australian election?
*Why do you like conservative governments?
*Has Mr Hales given direction to the flock to be involved in politics?
*Are the Brethren supporting the Liberal Coalition in this 2007 election?
*Do you believe that church has a role in government and the shaping of both international
  and domestic politics?
*What would be the Brethren’s feeling towards a female President or Prime Minister?
*Why did Mr Bruce Hales meet with Prime Minister Howard and what was discussed?
*Why did these other people go to this meeting?
*Is it not a contradiction to not vote and yet to spend hundreds of thousands on election ads,
  and if some do vote, are they disciplined?
  Is the position allowing for campaigning but not voting, hypocritical?
*Do the Brethren break up families?
*The Brethren have never said publicly that they may have got it wrong from time to time,
  and some former members want a public apology. What does the church say to this?
*When will the church make a public apology to the people it has hurt?
*What about payment for people who have lost families, inheritances, business etc?
*What would you say to a class action against the brethren?
*Are former members stories true that some people have committed suicide because of pressure
  from the Church?
*What do you do as a church to identify and help those who may be at risk?
*What has caused these deaths?
*Mr Hales in an open letter in 2003, wrote about mobile phones as worldly, how do you explain how
  the brethren are now able to have mobile phones?
*Is it that there is one rule for those that are more senior and another for the rank and file?
*When was it ok for someone to have a mobile phone and internet access given the 2003 letter?
*Do brethren hate gays?
*Do brethren hate the Greens?
*Why can’t gay people be left to live their lives?
*How do you treat gays in the church? Can they participate like others?
*You don’t support gay marriage and you try and help homosexuals, isn’t that another way of saying
  they are wrong and you are right and you dislike their lifestyle?
*Do Brethren think they are the highest court in the land and therefore can disregard laws
  which don’t suit them including family court law?
*Do the Brethren recognize the Courts of the Land?
*Do the Brethren see themselves as above the law?
*Is anyone welcome at your services and if so why are the doors closed?
*Why are there no windows?
*Why are there locked gates and fences?
*Didn’t Jesus direct the gospel was to be spread to the entire world freely, what are you afraid of?
*Why do you not recruit?
*Do the Brethren adhere to family court rulings?
*Do the Brethren bank roll court action for members?
*Some say the Brethren continually obstruct and break court rulings?
*Brethren children go to your schools, socialize with you, and are taught to shun the world outside;
  does this produce socially deformed people?
*What is involved in the doctrine of separation?

What is the “Recovery of the Truth”?

In the early 1800’s, many Christians in the UK became concerned at the failures of the major churches to teach and adhere to the truth of scripture. Mr. John Nelson Darby and other godly men led a movement to recover the teachings of Christ and His apostles and this quickly spread universally and has been maintained ever since, in spite of attacks from various sources. It is referred to by us as the “recovery of the truth”.

What does the term “Minister Of The Lord in The Recovery” mean?

The term “Minister of the Lord in the Recovery” was a descriptive phrase suggested by eminent lawyers when the church was renewing their trust documents after a division in the 1970’s. The term was suggested as a means of allowing the church to identify those who remained with the original fellowship and in particular provided a reference point as to who were subscribing to the faith in the unlikely event of a division. It describes the person the Brethren look to for universal leadership, following the unbroken line from Mr John Nelson Darby to the present.

Does this mean effectively that the Minister of the Lord in the Recovery is the only person who can say who is in the church and who is not?

In practice this provision is seldom used. It has not been required at all in the last 25 years and only exists for an extreme event such as a division. It is a legal provision to protect property and avoid uncertainty in the courts.

Doesn’t this mean legally or practically that the Minister of the Lord in the Recovery runs all the property trusts and funds?

No it does not. All Trustees of charitable trusts are bound by the terms of the trust deed. The Minister of the Lord in the Recovery has no beneficial ownership in any church or charitable trust assets.

What do the terms “elect vessel” and “man of God” mean?

The term “elect vessel” is used to describe the Apostle Paul. (Acts 9 v15) Although it may have been used 30years ago it is not in common use among the Brethren now. No person in the Brethren takes that ground. “Man of God” would literally mean a “man with God” and while the importance of this is recognized it is not used to single anyone out. It is used quite widely in Christendom generally. (2Tim3 v17)

Has the Brethren approach to technology changed in recent years, and why?

The Brethren are active participants in the community and recognize the need to make careful use of technology. We have never allowed and still do not allow unchecked access to morally questionable material but use technology where appropriate. Equipment which was not in use 10 years ago, may be today. In fact it is not possible to replace typewriters in the present day and we have had to act appropriately. Our aim is to maintain a simple approach to the use of technology.

What was the purpose of the “relocation for the testimony”?

Brethren are free to move from larger congregations to smaller ones to strengthen the local community. This has been a feature of the last 30 or 40 years.

Are government funds provided to Brethren schools used properly?

Absolutely, all funds are used for the purposes for which they are intended, and audited to ensure full compliance with funding guidelines.

Brethren schools are not for profit entities, there have been reports they operate companies, is this true?

Schools (Australia) can not and do not operate for profit enterprises as this would breach the requirements laid down by the government in legislation. Sprinter Tyres, the company mentioned in media reports is a separate entity and is not owned or operated by any school or charity.

How are the Brethren schools funded?

The majority of school funding comes from school fees and generous donations from parents and the Brethren community. In addition the schools access normal funding available to all independent schools which satisfy the required government criteria. In Australia in 2006, the recurrent operational funding from government sources was less than half of annual operating costs and public funding for capital works was 3% of capital expenditure nationally.

Are schools funds diverted to other entities as suggested by some?

No. School funds are only used for the advancement of education and are never used for any other purpose other than what they are provided for. Detailed financial statements and reports are required by government departments and Brethren schools are compliant. There is no basis for these suggestions.

People have suggested that government funds granted to Australian schools have been sent to countries overseas to prop up the Brethren schools in those countries? Is this a breach of the funding guidelines?

All government funds that are granted to our schools are only used for the advancement of education in Australia. The disbursement of government monies is subject to audit and any such suggestion is without foundation. No government funds are expended outside of Australia. Brethren members may from time to time raise funds in order to provide some aid to Brethren schools in less prosperous countries, however these are private funds and no guidelines or regulations are breached.

Do you keep adequate financial records to demonstrate the schools are operating within the parameters of the legislation?

Yes we do. Annual returns are required to be lodged with government authorities. Our schools are financially accountable to the donors and funding bodies and regular and comprehensive reporting is provided.

What is the Brethren Church’s position on sexual abuse?

The Church finds sexual abuse of any person, and certainly of children, to be abhorrent and evil. The Church views such matters seriously and takes all the necessary precautions to ensure this does not occur within the church. Whilst cases which have been raised are not of an institutionalized nature, the Church nevertheless recognizes the seriousness of these matters and has introduced further safeguards to reduce the risk of an offence being committed. The Church believes that these matters must be dealt with by the Police and any other relevant authority to ensure the protection of others and a fair, impartial and comprehensive investigation can be carried out.

Does the Church or its leaders cover up sex abuse and other illegal activities?

Brethren consider sexual abuse of any nature to be abhorrent and evil, and consequently offending of this type seldom occurs. Furthermore, we do not conceal situations of this nature, but rather have urged persons who have bought these matters to our attention to take them to the police and other relevant authorities. Such serious issues should never be politicized but should rather be handled professionally and with consideration to all parties involved.

Are the Brethren a Cult?

The brethren utterly reject the label of cult. We are a diverse community living in global locations and while we are a very organized community, no one person has absolute control over any individual. Our allegiance is to God and His teachings as contained in the Holy Scriptures.

Why aren’t students allowed to go to University, yet you are free to use university trained people?

We recognize the need for and have no difficulty with professional vocations; however we feel that the campus lifestyle is detrimental to the pursuit of our Christian ideals. Where professional qualifications can be gained externally, including business, marketing, accounting and law, this is encouraged.

Are Brethren disciplined for going to University?

When a person chooses to take up the full time University and campus lifestyle, they are joining another fellowship and this would put them in conflict with their church fellowship.

Are the Police investigating the Church for election activity?

This is a common misunderstanding. The Church has never been investigated by any authority for election activity. This has been reported in many news articles but is misleading and false.

How could computers and cell phones have been evil when you now use them?

The Brethren have always taken a conservative approach to adopting new technology for a number of reasons. Ministry through the years has encouraged Brethren not to become slaves to technology and have the very best and latest equipment. Members are exhorted to live simple lives, free from the pursuit of every modern convenience. Another core reason Brethren have demonstrated caution in their approach to new technologies has been the exposure to immoral influences. As time has passed, new ways of restricting these influences have been developed and applied.

How do you explain all the Ministry that was against technology?

Today, Brethren do utilize equipment as we deem it to be appropriate and particular care is taken to ensure that access to corrupt and defiling material is limited. The stance taken on technology has generally been in reference to its potential applications rather than the device itself. Brethren don’t normally have computers in their homes except where required to carry out work on not for profit matters and charitable causes.

People lost jobs and were withdrawn from because of technology, how can something that was evil then not be now?

Brethren do utilize equipment as it is deemed to be appropriate and particular care is taken to ensure that access to corrupt and defiling material is limited. The position held on technology has not changed to the extent that the exhortation to members to live free from the pursuit of every modern convenience continues today. Historically, where safeguards were not in place and there was a determination by a member to pursue materialism, congregations may have felt this influence and the potential for unchecked corruption was not conducive to a Christian lifestyle.

How will the Man of Sin utilize IT?

We believe that the world is building up to a system of lawlessness, headed up by the man of sin (the anti christ). We now live in an electronic age, where electronic information systems are used to monitor and control transactions globally. In this age of global terror, we have seen the introduction of even more electronic identification and intelligence. We believe this is the precursor to a more uniform world electronic system that will be used by the anti christ to influence, control and deceive, prior to the Lord Jesus Christ returning to defeat the enemy and to establish His kingdom.

Why did the Brethren change their minds on fax machines?

The practice of receiving and sending faxes at neighboring businesses became untenable as some members were being exposed to adverse and immoral influences. Where once fax machines were sophisticated, they are no longer, and Brethren use them as a tool to effectively communicate in business.

What do you say to allegations made by several former members that they were asked by the church to carry cash gifts into foreign countries, gifts that exceeded the legal limits imposed in the countries concerned?

While the congregations have always distributed gifts to further the Lords work, the Church would never ask a person to break the law in this way. Although we believe it is highly improbable that this has ever happened, it would be up to the individual to comply with any border declarations.

Do the leaders of the Brethren get given large amounts of tax free money and tithes each month?

The Brethren distribute gifts to persons in need and to further the Lord’s work, and many across the world are recipients of these gifts, which are used to offset expenses. No tax exemptions or concessions are claimed on this money. Any recipient of a gift receives it on trust to further the work of the Glad Tidings. The brethren have never practiced tithing and no formal regular payments to any individual occur. Leaders along with others are recipients of gifts totally devoted to furthering the work of the Lord.

Is the ministry of any of the churches leaders equal to scripture?

The Holy Scriptures stand alone as the inspired word of God. The Brethren view the published works of their leaders as valuable and authoritative. Our leaders have not and would not mislead the congregation as to doctrine. The Scriptures are used as the foundation and authority for any ministry given.

Do you believe that the Lord has chosen Mr Bruce Hales as his sole representative on earth to lead the church on earth until the rapture?

We are not told what day or hour the rapture will occur (Matt 25V13) but are assured the Lord will provide necessary leadership for Christians until He comes.

How much of the brethren’s belief, is based on the idea that their leader is Gods only representative on earth in the current day.

We believe God speaks through the Bible and through the Holy Spirit. God raises up people in each period of time to lead, encourage and teach His people. What holds the Brethren together is their united love for Christ and the Scriptures and the knowledge that although we do not know the day or the hour of His return, it is imminent.

Is the leader the only person capable of interpreting scripture and past ministry to suit the present?

We believe that the Holy Spirit’s guidance is available to any true believer (John16v13). We do not believe that our leaders would lead us astray as to doctrine. All ministries follow the Scriptures which do not change; they are the inspired word of God.

Is Mr Hales infallible, are his words law to the Brethren?

All have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3V23), so infallible no, however we do believe that he would never preach unsound doctrines contrary to the Scriptures and he serves the church in good faith and with a heart for the welfare and uplifting of the flock, not its destruction. We believe that God speaks authoritatively through persons of moral worth and integrity and we recognize Mr Hales as one of these persons.

How is the leader appointed?

There is no formal appointment or selection process but rather that moral leadership and authority become evident.

You say there is no overall corporate controlling entity, however how do you explain that the Minister of the Lord in the Recovery is used as a legal term to decide who is in the church or out and what happens to things if there is a rift within the group.

Again, this is legal terminology used as suggested by an eminent attorney to define our identity in different jurisdictions should a division occur. This provision has not been used in the last 25 years and would only be used as a defining point to determine whether persons are Brethren or not, in the event of a schism.

Is there an overall leadership structure, spoken or not?

Every organization must have some form of leadership or structure whether formal or not. The Brethren recognize the need of leadership and while they have no appointed positions, a structure and authority akin to that of a family operates. A well coordinated and active group such as the Brethren requires leadership to be effective. The Brethren enjoy a definite, forthright and stable leadership, not driven by popularity or election cycles. The Brethren look to universal leadership for the whole of that person’s natural life bringing stability, consistency and direction.

How are funds properly controlled?

Any charitable organization has a legally binding charter and operating guidelines and Brethren entities are no different.

Are all Brethren businesses controlled by National Office Assist or Brethren leaders?

No, all businesses owned by Brethren operate independently with no Church involvement whatsoever. While an active and effective mentoring programme operates this is informal and not subject to any central control. National Office Assist is a provider of equipment and services which do not extend to control or management of any other entities.

Are Brethren the only ones who will be saved?

We believe the Lord knows those that are His, and any who call on His name and believe in His blood will be saved. (Romans 10v13) The Brethren do not hold the belief they are the only ones who will be in Heaven.

If others are to be saved why do you have to live such strict lives?

We believe we must live true to the light and understanding which we have been given. We are responsible to God for how we live our lives.

Do you believe that the rapture is going to happen when all governments are conservative ones?

That is not a notion that has any currency amongst the Brethren.

What do you say to people who claim Bruce Hales wants to see John Howard elected and other conservative governments so the second coming of Jesus Christ is hastened?

Mr Hales has never made private or public statements to this effect.

Do the Brethren consider themselves Philadelphia and the rest of the churches those mentioned in the book of Revelation?

The Brethren do not take this ground.

Are all outsiders considered evil?

We know there is evil in the world, the Bible says “The whole world lies in the wicked one” however we would never say or think that all persons outside the Brethren are evil, as there are many true believers outside of the Brethren.

There are some who would say that the Brethren businesses may not use tax havens but they structure their businesses in many cases as charities or provide significant funds to the church through their own charitable trust. What do you say to those who say this is just another way of tax avoidance?

Brethren are encouraged to conduct their affairs in a simple, law abiding and honest fashion. No tax havens are used, and no tax evasion is condoned. The church would regard any breach of these matters as serious. There are no independent business structures set up as charities.

If someone is gifted funds regularly and it becomes their main income, isn’t this taxable income?

Individual’s taxation matters are their responsibility. It is their responsibility to seek their own independent professional taxation advice and to abide by it.

It is reported that Brethren charities manipulate the taxation laws, what do you say to that?

Brethren charities operate scrupulously within the laws governing charitable bodies while utilizing the benefits granted for charitable aims.

What involvement will the members of the church have in the upcoming  2007 Australian election?

None, the Brethren church will have no involvement whatsoever in this election campaign. The church is not aware of any plans by individuals to conduct campaigning. However members are free to support causes as individuals and to have a voice on issues that affect them, like all other Australians.

Why do you like conservative governments?

Conservative Christians by nature tend to support conservative policies and our members tend to support a range of parties who support those policies. The church itself doesn’t engage in partisan politics.

Has Mr Hales given direction to the flock to be involved in politics?

No. Mr Hales has always encouraged interest in good government but has never given any direction to be involved in politics.

Are the Brethren supporting the Liberal Coalition in this election?

The church is not involved in partisan politics.

Do you believe that church has a role in government and the shaping of both international and domestic politics?

The church has no role in politics; however as Christians we are exhorted to support and pray for government and we take a strong position on moral issues in opposition to the decline in the moral fabric of society.

What would be the Brethren’s feeling towards a female President or Prime Minister?

The Brethren would generally evaluate a leader on their moral judgment and management capabilities regardless of gender.

Why did Mr Bruce Hales meet with Prime Minister Howard and what was discussed?

Mr Hales met with the Prime Minister principally as a long time constituent of his electorate. They discussed general economic matters and Mr Hales assured the Prime Minister of his prayers as the Head of an elected government. Mr Howard himself has said there was nothing wrong with such a meeting, pointing to the Brethren as a lawful organization and that he considers it his job to meet with many groups.

Why did these other people go to this meeting?

The other attendees were traveling with Mr Hales and were able to be included in the meeting with Mr Howard.

Is it not a contradiction to not vote and yet to spend hundreds of thousands on election ads, and if some do vote, are they disciplined? Is the position allowing for campaigning but not voting, hypocritical?

Voting is a matter for individual conscience. All our members are registered voters and are required to give an account to the authorities if they don’t. (Australia) This is a personal matter and the church does not know if members vote or not. Generally we would be considered to be a non voting group. If a member chooses to issue campaign information and material, we would expect the views put forward to be the subject of debate, not whether that person had cast a vote.

Do the Brethren break up families?

The Brethren as a group hate the break up of families. The statistics show the incidence of this among brethren is lower than societal norms. However adherence to the doctrine of separation prevents normal relations between family members when one of them leaves the fellowship. Fortunately this is rare. For example in Sydney there is an average population of 700 Brethren. Over the past 20 years 10 members have left while an additional 8 former members have returned after a considerable time away. Where family breakdown occurs this is always tragic, however this usually occurs when sin brings in irreconcilable difference. The Brethren have never claimed to be immune from marital breakdown although the rate within the church is 1/20th of what we see in general society.

The Brethren have never said publicly that they may have got it wrong from time to time, and some former members want a public apology. What does the church say to this?

Where an injustice may have occurred, congregations have conveyed their sorrow and apologies to those concerned. There has never been a requirement to make a general statement about individual matters. Individual congregations have looked at individual cases and have made assessments and have adjusted matters where required, however these matters relate to person,s private lives and it would be improper to make public statements regarding private matters. The Brethren have been preserved from many of the institutionalized challenges faced by other churches although regular review is a responsibility of all local congregations.

When will the church make a public apology to the people it has hurt?

Sadly there are those that have left the church and feel a hurt that is the consequence of unconfessed sin. Where action by a local congregation should have been handled in a different way, those people affected are spoken to and the matters remain private. If apologies are offered these are no less valuable and genuine than a public statement.

What about payment for people who have lost families, inheritances, business etc?

Individual congregations would look at the facts of any case that was raised with them and make their judgment accordingly.

What would you say to a class action against the brethren?

We are not aware of any basis to bring any class action against any congregation or the church as a whole.

Are former members stories true that some people have committed suicide because of pressure from the Church?

Suicide is a very complex and tragic matter involving many factors such as mental illness, financial pressure etc. Statistics show that rather than there being a high rate of suicide among brethren and former brethren, the true rate is many times less than that of wider society. In any instance the circumstances are complex however the facts suggest it is not a systemic issue among the brethren but rather the opposite.

What do you do as a church to identify and help those who may be at risk?

The Church provides special support for persons that may be at risk and persons under emotional strain as is done in wider society.

What has caused these deaths?

As experts have made clear, there is no one answer to the enigma which is suicide. All cases are tragic and one death is always one too many.

Mr Hales in an open letter in 2003, wrote about mobile phones as worldly, how do you explain how the brethren are now able to have mobile phones?

This letter was directed at the youth and was warning of the dangers of unchecked access to corruption through mobile phones. Progress has been subsequently been made to allow for restricted use of these devices.

Is it that there is one rule for those that are more senior and another for the rank and file?

There is no truth to this assertion although it is recognized that an older and more responsible person would use greater discernment in using these devices than say a teenager.

When was it ok for someone to have a mobile phone and internet access given the 2003 letter?

There has never been a date or event that can be pointed to; however as a protective measure our young people still do not have unrestricted access to computers or mobile phones.

Do brethren hate gays?

The brethren do not hate the gays but rather have a disagreement with the homosexual lifestyle. Although the brethren see it as a deviation from a normal, Godly lifestyle; they exhibit compassion and sympathy towards homosexual people. There is no hatred from the Brethren, but we believe in the preservation of the traditional family unit.

Do brethren hate the Greens?

Brethren members would generally agree with the Greens on the need to protect the environment, however the Greens (Australia), led by Senator Brown actively promote policies of moral decline and this is where members would have a significant disagreement with the Party.

Why can’t gay people be left to live their lives?

We wouldn’t seek to dictate to people outside the church on how to live, although we disagree with the promotion of the gay lifestyle and gay marriage.

How do you treat gays in the church? Can they participate like others?

There is no restriction placed on those who are leading their lives based on scripture. Where someone is pursuing a gay lifestyle they are encouraged to give that lifestyle up.

You don’t support gay marriage and you try and help homosexuals, isn’t that another way of saying they are wrong and you are right and you dislike their lifestyle?

The church is sympathetic towards gay people; however we can not support the pursuit and promotion of the gay lifestyle and gay marriage. We support the teachings contained in Scripture.

Do Brethren think they are the highest court in the land and therefore can disregard laws which don’t suit them including family court law?

This is theological reference, not a reference to Courts of Law. The Brethren abide by the courts of the land and are taught to respect and obey Courts of Law and to abide by their rulings. The reference to the Highest Court in the Land is a biblical allusion which speaks of the power and ultimate judgment of God, whereby God is ultimately fair and just.

Do the Brethren recognize the Courts of the Land?

Absolutely. Brethren are encouraged to live law abiding lifestyles and to respect the legal institutions.

Do the Brethren see themselves as above the law?

No, Brethren have never held this view and are subject to the law like all Australians.

Is anyone welcome at your services and if so why are the doors closed?

Meeting rooms are open to those who are well disposed and contact names and numbers are always available for further enquiries. When the Disciples had entered the Upper Room to meet with the Lord, the door was shut behind them, and so to limit distraction, we do likewise.

Why are there no windows?

This is simply a design feature that suits our needs. There are many large modern churches which don’t have large window space as it isn’t always practical when considering the interior design and function.

Why are there locked gates and fences?

For security reasons our meeting rooms generally have fencing and gates. The meeting rooms are not occupied at all times and there have been occasions where property has been damaged including while a service is underway, so this is just a security measure.

Didn’t Jesus direct the gospel was to be spread to the entire world freely, what are you afraid of?

Our congregations spread the Gospel by way of preaching it on street corners and in the market place, so far from being secret about what we believe; we actually publicly proclaim the gospel every day in the streets.

Why do you not recruit?

We are aware that the Brethren lifestyle is not for everyone and the doctrine of separation can be difficult for some and so we don’t force our beliefs on anyone, however there are those without a Brethren background who have joined and they are most welcome and valuable. The gospel is for everyone, not just a few.

Do the Brethren adhere to family court rulings?

The Brethren seek to up hold the rule of law at all times including abiding by Family Court rulings. Where custody matters are involved, the Brethren encourage members to abide by these rulings and there are numerous cases where joint custody arrangements are working smoothly.

Do the Brethren bank roll court action for members?

There was a case recently where a member of the church borrowed to pay her court costs, her costs were not paid for by the Church. The Brethren aren’t party to these matters, by their very nature, Family Court issues are between a husband and wife.

Some say the Brethren continually obstruct and break court rulings?

We don’t accept that this is the case. The church encourages its members to abide by any court rulings that may be handed down.

Brethren children go to your schools, socialize with you, and are taught to shun the world outside; does this produce socially deformed people?

The great thing about the Brethren is the feeling of family, the support, the love and the friendships. When a member is in need, the Brethren are always there, and so this actually makes for rather the opposite, it makes for socially developed people. The love and care and interaction amongst church members are in fact hallmarks of our Church. The personal testimony of many thousands acquainted with the Brethren completely disproves this allegation.

What is involved in the doctrine of separation?

The Brethren practice separation from evil, recognising this as God's principle of unity. Our charter is 2 Timothy 2:19 "The Lord knows those that are his; and, Let every one who names the name of the Lord withdraw from iniquity." As a matter of conscience, our social activities and links are reserved exclusively for those with whom we celebrate the Lord's Supper. This sacred remembrance of the Lord Jesus and His death is the core of our Christian fellowship, and the inspiration to live a life apart from worldly pleasures and pursuits; a precious heritage passed down the generations. Israel was sanctified as a nation and to us separation is the key to our success, keeping us free of so many harmful influences abroad in society.

HOME PAGE