Christadelphians

John Thomas

Christadelphian Hall (Bath)

Gate of Christadephian Cemetery near Hye, Texas (2018)

Richmond Chapel sign

2002 Christadelphian hymnbook

Christadelphians are a Christian denomination with a non-trinitarian belief system that emerged in the 19th century. Founded by John Thomas in 1848, after he left the Disciples of Christ in the United States, the movement grew out of the Restoration Movement and shares some beliefs with other Christian groups but differs significantly in its understanding of the nature of Jesus Christ, the Godhead, and the Kingdom of God.

Beliefs and Practices

Christadelphians hold a number of key beliefs that distinguish them from mainstream Christianity. They are Biblical Unitarians, believing that God is one and that Jesus Christ is God's son, but not divine. They reject the doctrine of the Trinity, which is a cornerstone of the faith for most Christian denominations. Christadelphians also believe in the imminent return of Jesus Christ to the earth to establish the Kingdom of God. They emphasize living a life of morality and simplicity, closely adhering to the teachings found in the Bible.

Baptism

For Christadelphians, baptism is an essential step for salvation and is performed by full immersion in water. It is considered a public declaration of faith and repentance, only undertaken by individuals who are old enough to understand and believe in the teachings of the Bible.

The Bible

The Bible is the sole authority for Christadelphians, and they reject the use of Creeds and traditions that are not found in the scriptures. They engage in regular Bible study both individually and collectively, and their interpretations of the Bible lead to a distinctive set of doctrines.

The Kingdom of God

Christadelphians believe that the Kingdom of God will be established on Earth with Jesus Christ ruling as king from Jerusalem. This future kingdom will replace human governments and bring peace and righteousness to the world.

Worship and Community Life

Christadelphians meet in homes or in their own meeting halls, which are typically called "Ecclesias". Their worship services include singing hymns, prayer, reading the Bible, and a talk or exhortation based on a Bible passage. They also observe the Lord's Supper weekly, in remembrance of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection.

Conscientious Objection

Due to their interpretation of Jesus' teachings on nonviolence, Christadelphians have historically been conscientious objectors during times of war, refusing to bear arms. They may serve in non-combatant roles or perform alternative service when conscription is in effect.

Demographics and Distribution

The Christadelphian movement is global, with ecclesias in many countries around the world. The largest concentrations are in the United Kingdom, Australia, North America, and parts of Africa. Membership numbers are relatively small compared to larger Christian denominations, with estimates ranging from 50,000 to 60,000 worldwide.

Controversies and Criticisms

Christadelphians have faced criticism from mainstream Christian denominations for their non-trinitarian beliefs and their interpretation of the Bible. Their stance on pacifism and conscientious objection has also been a point of contention, especially during times of national conflict.

Conclusion

Christadelphians represent a unique strand within Christianity, characterized by their commitment to Biblical authority, their anticipation of the Kingdom of God, and their practices of baptism, pacifism, and communal worship. Despite their small numbers, they have maintained a distinct identity and set of beliefs within the broader Christian tradition.