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Paul's Mission / The Origin of the Vaudois Apostles/Disciples

Part II

(Matthew 24:14) Jesus said to His disciples, "And this Gospel of the Kingdom shall be Preached in ALL the world as a Witness to ALL nations, and then shall the End Come." After Jesus' resurrection In (Matthew 28:16-20) Jesus spoke to the 11 apostles, "....Go ye therefore and Teach ALL nations, Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to Observe ALL things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the End of the world." In (Acts 1:1-11) Jesus said unto his disciples, "Ye shall receive Power, when the Holy Ghost comes upon you, and ye shall be "Witnesses" unto ME, both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the End part of the earth."

Paul's Fourth Mission Journey

It is clear from (Acts 13:1-21; 17) that Paul went on three journeys. There is also reason to believe that he made a "Fourth" journey after his "Release" from the Roman imprisonment recorded in (Acts 28). The conclusion that such a journey did, indeed, take place is based on:

1) Paul's declared intention to go to Spain (Romans 15:24,28).

2) Eusebius' implication that Paul was released following his first Roman imprisonment (Ecclesiastical History, 2.22.2-3).

3) Statements in early Christians literature that he took the gospel as far as Spain (Clement of Rome, epistle to the Corinthians, Chapter 5: actus Petri Vercellenses, chapter 1-3; Muratiorian Canon, lines 34-39). [New International Version].

The place Paul may have visited after his release from prison is indicated by statements of intention in his earlier writings, and by subsequent mention in the Pastoral letters. The order of his travel cannot be determined with certainty, but the itinerary below seems likely.

1. Rome--- released from prison (Acts 28) in A.D. 62

2. Spain--- 62-64 (Romans 15:24,28)

3. Crete---64-65 (Titus 1:5)

4. Miletus--- 65 (II Timothy 4:20)

5. Colosse---66 (Philemon 22)

6. Ephesus---66 (I Timothy 1:3)

7. Philippi--- 66 (Philippians; I Timothy 1:3)

8. Nicopolis---66, 67 (Titus 3:12)

9. Rome again---67

10. Martyrdom --- 67/68 Paul was beheaded by Emperor Nero in Rome.

After the church had received the power of the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2), it began, at once, to greatly multiply, and 8,000 souls were saved (Acts 2:41; Acts 4:4), to extend itself to the different cities and town of Judea. At the close of the "apostolic period", the church had spread beyond the limits of Judea to Macedonia, Crete, Asia Minor (Turkey today), Pisidia, Greece, Italy, Cilicia, Pontus, Cappadocia, Bithynia, Spain, Gaul (France) and Britain. The successors of the "Apostles," who were commonly called the "Apostolic fathers," were Polycarp, Hermas, Clement or Rome, Ignatius, and Papias.

Apostolic Fathers' Writings

Clement of Rome 1st century. He may well have been a companion of both Peter and Paul (Phil. 4:3). On the behalf of the church in Rome, he wrote a letter to the Corinthian church, in aid the church leaders who had been ousted by a minority faction.

Ignatius (A.D. 35-107) A personal disciple of one or more apostles. He was executed in Rome A.D. 107. On his way to Rome as a prisoner, Ignatius wrote letters to several churches; these letters give considerable insight into the structure and beliefs of the churches in Asia Minor (Turkey) at the close of the apostolic age.

Papias (A.D.60-130) A disciple of John the apostle and a friend of Polycarp. He was a Bishop (pastor) of Hierapolis in Asia Minor (Turkey today). His testimony concerning the Gospels of Matthew and Mark has been invaluable to the church.

Polycarp (A.D. 69-156) Another disciple of John apostle. He was faithful bishop (pastor) of Smyrna. He was arrested in his old age and was burned to death.

Justin Martyr (A.D. 160) When the disciples had seen Jesus ascending into heaven, and had believed, and received the Power, He sent upon them from heaven, they went to Every race of men. And, they taught these things and were called apostles. These Twelve disciples went forth throughout the known parts of the world, and continued to show His greatness with all modesty and uprightness.

Clement of Alexandria (A.D. 195) Christ is said to have baptized Peter alone and Peter baptized Andrew; Andrew and, John. The two of them baptized James and the rest. To Jeame the Just. John, and Peter, the Lord imparted knowledge after His resurrection. These imparted it to the rest of the apostles. And the rest of the apostles imparted it to the "Seventy" (in Luke 10:1-2), of whom Barnabas was one.

Tertullian (A.D. 197) As their Divine Master commanded them, "When He, the Spirit of Truth will come, He will lead you into ALL truth." You have the work of the apostles also predicted: How beautiful are the feet of those who Preach the gospel of peace, which bring glad tidings of good NOT of war, nor evil tidings (Isa. 52:7). In response to which is the (Psalm 19:5) "Their voice is gone through all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world." We see the voice of the apostles have gone forth into all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. His disciples, also spreading over the world, did as their Master commanded them.

Origin (A.D. 245) On this account, the apostles LEFT Israel and accomplished that which had been commanded them by the Savior: "Make disciples of ALL the nations." It was by the help of a Divine power that these men taught Christianity, and succeeded in leading others to embrace the Word of God. For it was NOT any power of theirs speaking. At the request of their Master and God, the disciples scattered over the world and gave forth his teachings for Salvation.

Lactantius (A.D. 304-313) At this time after the ascension, his apostles were 11 in number. To them was added Matthias, in the place of the traitor Judas Isccariot. And, afterward Paul was added. Then they were dispersed throughout ALL the earth to Preach the gospel of the Lord, as their Master had commanded them. For the next 25 years (until the beginning of the reign of Emperor Nero), they busied themselves in laying the foundations of the churches in every province and city.

Paul's Missions' Journey and the Vaudois Christians/Apostles

(Romans 15:24) Paul wrote approximately (A.D. 67) Whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you. (Col. 1:23) The gospel which you heard... was preached to every creature under heaven.

Clement of Rome (A.D.96) After preaching both in the east and west, Paul gained the illustrious reputation due to his faith, having taught righteousness to the whole world, and having come to the extreme limit of the west [the extreme limit of the west refers to either Spain or Britain.] Irenaeus (A.D. 180) The churches which have been planted in Germany do not believe or hand down anything different, nor do those in Spain, nor those in Gaul (France).

Tertullian (A.D. 197)... By this time, the name of Christ has reached the manifold confines of the Moors, (Germany) all the limits of Spain, the diverse nations of the Gaul (France) and the haunts the Britons inaccessible to the Romans, but subjugated to Christ... furthermore, there are Germans, Scythians, and persons of many remote nations and provinces and islands many to us unknown and which we can scarcely enumerate. In all the places, the name of Christ (who is already come) reigns. Christ's name extending everywhere, believed everywhere, worshipped by all the above-enumerated nations, and is reigning everywhere.

Mutatorian Fragment (A.D. 200) The principle on which Luke wrote was to write only of what fell under his own notice. And, he shows this clearly by the omission of martyrdom of Peter, and also of the journey of Paul, when he went from the city of Rome to Spain.

The Pilgrim Church by E.H. Broadbent Page 81-101

The Vaudois (A.D.68-1800) are, in fact, "Descended" from those refugees from ITALY who after Paul (A.D. 68) apostle had there "Preached" the Gospel, abandoned their beautiful country and FLED, like the Woman mentioned in the Book of (Revelation, Chapter 12), to these Wild mountains (Swiss Alps), where they have to, this day, handed down the Gospel from "father to son," in the SAME purity and simplicity as it was preached by Paul apostle.

The Brethren in the valleys NEVER lost the knowledge and consciousness of their "Origin" and "Unbroken" history there. In the Alpine Valleys of Piedmont (Italy) there had been, for centuries, congregations of believers calling themselves brethren, who came widely known as "Waldenses or Vaudois," though they did NOT, themselves, accept the name. They trace their "Origin" in those parts, back to Apostolic times. Like many of the so-called Cathar, Paulican, and other churches, these were NOT "Reformed" NEVER having degenerated from the New Testament patterns, as had the Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox and some others, but having ALWAYS maintained, in varying degree, the Apostolic tradition.

From the time of the Emperor Constantine (3rd century) there HAD continued to be a "Succession" of those who preached the Gospel and founded churches, uninfluenced by the relations between Church and State existing at the time. This accounts for the large bodies of Christians, well established in the Scriptures, and free from idolatry and the other evils prevailing in the dominant professing Church, to be found in the Taurus Mountains and Alpine valleys.

These latter, in the quiet seclusion of their mountains, had remained unaffected by the development of the Roman Catholic Church. The "Vaudois" considered the Scriptures, both for doctrine and church order, to be binding of their time, and NOT rendered obsolete by change of circumstances. It was SAID of them that their whole manner of thought and Action was an endeavor to "HOLD FAST" the character of Original Christianity.

When, from the 14th century onward, the valleys were invaded and the people had to negotiate with surrounding rulers, they always emphasized this to the Prince of Savoy, who had the longest dealings with them, they could "ALWAYS" assert without fear of contradiction the uniformity of their faith, from Father to Son through time immemorial, even the Very AGE of the Apostles.

To Francis I of France they said, in 1544: "This confession is that which we have received from our ancestors, even from Hand to Hand, according as their predecessors in ALL time and EVERY Age have Taught and delivered. Let your Highness consider, that this Religion, in which we live, is NOT merely our religion of the present day, or a religion discovered for the FIRST time only a few years ago, as our enemies Falsely pretend, but it is religion of our fathers and of our grandfathers, yea, of our forefathers and of our predecessors still more remote. It is the religion of the Saints and of the Martyrs, of the Confessors and of the Apostles."

When they came into contact with the Reformers in the 16th century, they said, "Our ancestors have often recounted us that we have EXISTED from the time of the Apostles. In all matters nevertheless we agree with you, and thinking as you think, from the Very days of the apostles themselves, we have ever been consistent respecting the faith."

http://www.ccel.org/b/bevan/friends, The Three Friends of God in the 14th Century.

The short account given in the following pages of Three of the "Friends of God" of the 14th century, is but a small fragment of a history which would form itself a voluminous library, the history of the "Brethren" of the Middle Ages known to us "Many names", but in England chiefly as the Lollards or Boni Homines....

In the 14th history of the "Friends of God" who stood in immediate connection with "Vaudois and Waldensian", the Brethren wrote: They said that about the year (A.D. 320) after Christ, the Church in Rome!! had fallen into worldliness, and was "Corrupted" through evil teaching. For the Roman emperor Constantine, instead of persecuting the Christians, had begun to honor them, and to give them "Worldly" Power and riches, and the "Bishops"

became lords and princes, and the things of God were judged by worldly judges, and NOT by the Word of the Lord. And, because their fathers had

"Held Fast" to the Ancient teachings of the apostles of the Lord, they had been KILLED. Many of them had FLED to the mountains in Italy, and Switzerland (Alps mountains), France and some to other countries. God had kept them as the apple of His eye, and they could "NEVER" be destroyed though they had to suffer hardship, persecution, death, from generation to generation. So, as time went on, they were found in many races, and in many lands, and wherever they went, they brought the Word of God, as they "Believed" the apostles taught it.

A Condensed History of the Early Church

by J.V. Kirkland

The churches of Rome, Antioch, Alexandria, and Carthage now (A.D. 240), began to be great centers of religious power, and had, by a surprising extent, changed the form of government. Instead of old government of democracy, they had become to be monarchies; and the purity and simplicity of the "Primitive" churches were given up for worldly pride and "Superstition." Even in those churches where so much corruption had crept in, there were many pious men, who groaned under these innovation and impositions, which were so sad corrupting their beloved Zion.

From the reign of Emperor Septimius Severus, in (A.D 210) till the reign of Decius, Christians were allowed a great deal of religious liberty. When Decicus came to the throne in (A.D.249), he required, by edict, all persons in the empire to conform to pagan worship. This edict rent asunder the churches. Hundreds apostatized, and many were martyred. When this trial abated after two years, many apostates applied to the church for restoration, and the lovers of popularity were ready at once to accept them.

The was a Bishop (Pastor) in the church at Rome at this time named

"Novatian," marked piety and learning. His address was eloquent and insinuating, and his moral were irreproachable. Novatian strongly opposed the admission of such, as had accepted the pagan worship and blasphemed the name of Jesus, to escape suffering during the time of persecution.

Bishop Fabian, who was the pastor of the church in Rome, was martyred during the persecution under Decius (A.D. 249); and Cornelius, a man who was eager to take in all who had denied the faith during the times of persecution, was elected which resulted in a permanent "Division" in the church of Rome. This Division resulted in TWO denominations. Once continued upon the original principle, while the other developed into the form of government the "Roman Catholic (universal) Church."

Emperor Constantine came to the throne of the empire in (A.D. 306), and during his conflict with Maximus in (A.D. 312), he professed the Christian religion. He first tried to unite the "Novatians" with the "Cornelius' party", but the Novatianists refused this union on account of the corruption of the Cornelius party. Constantine finally joined the Christian church (the Cornelius party) on May 22, A.D 337. He now establishes the Christian religion by LAW. They called their party the "Catholic Church."

The term "Catholic" denotes anything Universal, or Entire. The church Catholic means all the members of Christ's body; hence the extravagance of the claim. This party being now established by law, began to incorporate almost ALL the heathern festivals that were celebrated while the empire was under pagan religion.

The Christians were so proud to think that they had an emperor to protect them, that they submitted almost all control in his hands. The whole body of the church now took the side and power and worldly show. It began to hold councils, instead of consulting the Scriptures, to decide all the affairs of doctrine and practice. The chairman of these councils finally began to be called "Universal Bishops," and was regarded as having general ecclesiastical authority. The first to assume this title was John, the Faster in A.D. 588. Boniface, III seemed to be the first to establish the "Succession of Popes!"

It is evident, from an abundance of undoubted evidence, that the Novatianists resorted to the Valleys of Piedmont (Italy) about the beginning of the 5th century and were called "Waldenses." Some of the prominent ministers and writers of the church, while they were called "Novatianinsts"

were Novatian, Novatus, Sampronianus, Cyril, Albanus, Agelius, Acesius, Sisinnius, Marcian, Mark, and Leo. These exercise their ministry from (A.D. 240-439.)

There are various opinions as to the origin of the name "Waldenses." The most popular opinion is that they derived their names from the Valleys of Piedmont. Dr. McLean, the learned translator of Mosheim's "History" in a note on Mosheim's account of the Waldenses, who supposes that they derived their name from Peter Waldo (A.D. 1160) says, "We may venture to affirm the Contrary, with the learned Beza and other writers of note; for it seems evident from the best record that "Valdus" derived his name from the true Valdenses of Piedmont, who doctrine he "ADOPTED" and who were known by the name "Vaudois" and "Valdenses' " before he or his immediate followers existed."

If the Valdenses had derived their name from any eminent teacher, it would have been from Valdo, who was remarkable for the purity of his doctrine in the 9th century, and who was the contemporary and chief counselor of "Berengarius"; but the truth is that they derived their name from their Valley's in Piedmont, which is their language, and are called 'Vauz'hence' Vaudois,' hence "Vaudois," their true name. Hence, Peter Waldo, or as others call him, "John"---of Lyons, France was called in Latin, "Valdus," because he had "ADOPTED" their doctrine; hence the terms "Valdenses" and "Waldenses" used by those who write in English or Latin in the place of "Vaudois."

Reinerius Saccho, a former Waldensian who later became a Catholic inquisitor, excreted such a furious zeal for the "Destruction" of the Waldenses, lived but about 80 years after Valdus (Peter Waldo, of France A.D. 1160) must, therefore, be supposed to have known whether he was the real "Founder" of the "Valdenses or Leonists". Yet, it is remarkable that he speaks of the "Leonists" as a sect that had flourished above 500 years, and even mentions authors of note who make their antiquity remount the apostolic age, Reinerius also observes: "The Vaudois declare themselves to be the "Apostles' Successors" to have apostolic authority and the keys of binding and loosing. They say that a man is then first baptized when he is received into their community." Of all the sects, observes Reinerius, which have been or now exist, now is more injurious to the Church of Rome, for 3 reasons:

1) Because it is more ancient. Some say their existence from the time of pope Sylvester (A.D. 320); others, from the time of the apostles.

2) Because it is so universal; there is scarcely any country into which this sect has not crept.

3) Because all other heretics excite horror by the greatness of their blasphemies against God; but these have a great appearance of piety, as they live justly before men. (Brown's Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge), Page 1148.

It has been said that they could travel all over the country and stay every night with some of their brethren. In times of persecution, they would often carry baskets of goods with them as peddlers; and after showing their goods, they would say: "We have something of more value than these goods that we will tell you, if you will promise NOT to tell the clergy." After obtaining a promise of protection, they would tell the beautiful story of their doctrine. Often the people would "Profess" their faith, and under the cover of night, would be carried to a suitable place and baptized.

Peter Waldo, a rich merchant of Lyons, France, who it is said derived his name from the Waldenses, after he "Professed" faith in Christ and "JOINED" these people (A.D. 1170), sold his merchandise and appropriate the proceeds to the furtherance of the gospel. He translated the Bible into the vernacular language of Gaul (French). He was hunted down, like a beast of prey, by the Catholic clergy of the established religion, but traveled to Belgium, Germany, Vandals, and Bohemia.

In J.Newton Brown's "Encyclopedia of religious Knowledge": We are given the following account of the Origin of the name "Waldenses:" The Valleys are called 'Vaux', whence 'Vaudois' and Peter Waldo is said to have borne the name "Waldo", because he was a "Follower" of that sect. The Waldenses taught that the Roman Church DEPARTED from it former sanctity and purity in the time of Emperor Constantine the Great (A.D. 320). The Waldenses, therefore, "Refused" to submit to the usurped power of its pontiff.

In Germany---and later, in England---many of the Waldenses were called

"Lollards," as some believe, after the celebrated Water Lollard, of Germany, who exercised his ministry in the early part of the 14th century. Fuller, However, informed us that in the reign of Edward III, about (A.D. 1315), Walter Lollard, a German preacher or as Perrin in his "History of the Waldenses," calls him one of the "Barbs" (Pastor) of great renown among them, came into England, and was so eminent in England, and as in France they were called "Berengarians" from Berengarius, and "Petrobrusians" from Peter Bruis; and in Italy and Flanders "Arnoldists" from the famous Arnold of Brescia. So did the Waldensian Christians, for many generations afterwards, bear the name of this worthy man, being called "Lollards."

Long before the Reformation, the Waldenses had planted their churches and disseminated their doctrine in almost all the provinces of Europe, particular in France, Germany, Bohemia, Moravia, Switzerland, Holland, and England. In about (A.D. 1158), about 30 persons of Waldensian sect came over into England to disseminate their doctrine. We have mentioned of them in England in (A.D. 1182). Bishop Usher mentions the order of the Friar Minorities coming to England in (A.D. 1235) to "Surpress" the Waldensian heresy.

History the Friends of God

http://www.ccel.org/b/bevan/friends/friends.htm

The history of these communities of "Brethren" who called themselves simply "Christians," reminds us, in a remarkable manner, in the mode by which they are described, and in the course of their destiny, of the incidents of the earliest Christians centuries. For it was just those "Christians," who were represented by the chief authors of antiquity as the 'off scouring of all thing' who were HATED and Persecuted as sectaries by the Jewish and heathen priesthood. We may recall that Paul, himself, was brought to trial as a 'leader of the sect of Nazarenes' it was those despised men, who were the beginning of the new era for the heathen and Jewish world.

In accordance with the prediction of Christ. "If they have persecuted ME, they will also persecute you." The true Christians have, in ALL Ages, been persecuted as being a sect, or sectaries; have been calumniated and hated. But, according to the further prediction of the Redeemer, they have arisen as it were from the ashes, and the hatred of the world has been no avail. Thus, though an "Exterminating" war was carried on against these earlier Reformers, we find that TWO centuries after the event related in the stories that follow, the hidden stream of life burst forth afresh into the daylight, and "MARTIN LUTHER" rejoiced to reprint and circulate the writings of the "Friends of God."

Their preachers were talked of in France, Switzerland, and in Italy, as well as in the German towns far and near. For instance, in 1150 they are heard of at Cologne, in 1177, Frankurt, Nuremberg, and other German towns. In 1170, they were forbidden to preach at Lyons, France. Large meetings were held by them at Metz in 1180; in Spain they were persecuted in 1192, by Alfonso of Aragon, who mentions in his edict against them that he follows the example of his forefathers in forbidding their preaching. Pope Lucius III published an edict against them in 1184.

Brethren from Bosnia and other Balkan countries making their way through Italy came into the South of France, finding everywhere those who shared their faith. The teaching they brought with them found ready acceptance. The Roman Clergy called them Bulgarians, Cathars, Patarenes, and other names, following the habit of centuries in Asia Minor (Turkey today) and in the Balkan countries affirmed that they were Manichaens.

Prominent among such teachers was Pierce de Bruey, an able and diligent preacher who, for 20 years, braving all dangers, traveled throughout Dauphiny, Provence, Languedoc, and Gascony, drawing multitudes from the superstition in which they had been brought up, BACK to the teachings of Scripture, until he was burned at St. Gilles (1126). He showed, from scripture, that NONE should be baptized until they had attained to the full use of their reason; that it is "Useless" to build churches, as God accepts sincere worship wherever offered; that crucifixes should NOT be venerated, but rather looked upon with horror, as representing the instrument on which our Lord suffered; that the bread and wine are NOT changed into the body of Christ, but are symbols commemorative of His death; and that the prayers and good works of the living cannot benefit the dead.

Pierce de Bruey, was joined by Henri, a monk of Clumy in deacon's order whose striking appearance, powerful voice, and great gift of oratory compelled action, while his denunciation of the crying evils that abounded, his convincing expositions of scripture, and his zeal and devotion, TURNED many to repentance and faith, among them "notorious" sinners, who were converted and became changed in life. Priests who tried to oppose were terrified by the power of his preaching, and at the sight of the multitudes that followed him.

Undeterred by the violent death of his elder and admired brother and

"Fellow-Worker," he continued his testimony until Bernard of Clairvaus, at that time, the most powerful man in Europe, was called to oppose him, as being the only one who could hope to do successfully. Bernard found the Catholic churches "Deserted" and people wholly turned from the clergy, and, although Henri was obliged to flee from his powerful opponent, all Bernard oratory and authority could only put a temporary check on the movement, which was not dependent on any individual, but was a spiritual one affecting the whole population. Henri was able to "Elude" capture for a long time and continue his fearless work, but falling at last into the hands of the clergy, he was imprisoned and either died in prison, or was put to death there (1147).

In accordance with the inveterate habit of attaching some sectarian name to any who endeavored to return to the teaching of the Scripture, many were called, at this time, "Petrobrussians" or "Henricans" names which they, themselves, NEVER acknowledged. Bernard of Clairvaux complained bitterly of their objection to taking the name of anyone as their "Founder." Bernard said, "Inquired of them the author of Their SECT, and they will assign NONE, what heresy is there, which, from among men, has NOT had its own heresiarch?" The Manichaeans had Manes for their Prince and Preceptor, the Sabellians Sabellius, the Arians Arius, the Eenomians Eunomius. Thus, all others pests of this stamp are known to have had each MAN as their "Founders," whence they have, at once, derived both their ORIGIN and their NAME. But, by what appellation, or by what title, will you enroll these heretics? ,Truly by None!.. ,,For their heresy is not derived from man, neither through man have they received it... He then comes to the conclusion that they had received it from demons.

The Albigenses

The name of Albigenses does NOT appear until after the Council of Lombers, near Albi about the middle of the 12th century. In Languedoc and Provence in the South of France, there was a civilization in advance of that in other countries. The congregation of believers who met apart from the Catholic Church were numerous and increasing. They are often called "Albigense," a name taken from Albi, a district where there were many of them, but this name was NEVER used by them, nor of them until the later period. They HAD intimate connection with the Brethren---whether called "Waldenses, Poor men of Lyons, Bogomils," or otherwise---in the surrounding countries, where churches spread among the various people. Pope Innocent III required of the Council of Toulose, Raymond VI, who ruled the Provence, and of the other rulers and prelates (priests) in the South of France, that the heretics should be "Banished."

The Inquisition finished what the crusade had left undone. Many of the brethren FLED to the Balkan countries, others were scattered throughout the neighboring lands, the civilization of Provence disappeared, and the independent provinces of the South were incorporated into the kingdom of France. Early in the next century we hear of them at Turin, in Savoy, and in Austria, where they were severely persecuted later on (A.D 1260), we hear of 42 communities of them near Passau; in 1257 they were persecuted in Bohemia. They abounded at this time in Piedmont, and Dauphine; all over the South of France, at Naples, in Sicily, and Southern Italy---in Netherlands, Flanders, and Brabant in Northern France and in England.

"Belief of the Brethren" In order, they said to learn the mind of Christ, and to understand His desires for His church; it is needful to GO BACK to the teaching of Christ and His apostles. They said also that it is an error to suppose that the directions given in the New Testament for Christians to "Worship" and were only fitted for those times. On the contrary, they were to HOLD good even to the end, for God changes NOT and he gave rules and precepts which needed NO Change to make them suitable for following ages!! http://www.ccel.org/b/bevan/friends/friends.html

Human learning, they said, could add nothing to God's teaching. For did He choose and send forth fisherman and working men, armed only with His power and wisdom? And, was not that the time when He was most glorified before men? And, was it not because men Fell AWAY from the teaching of these apostles, that ruin, and misery, and darkness came upon the Churches in Asia, Europe, and Africa. Therefore, said they, "Let our objection be to GO Back to the days of the apostles, and draw from the fountain head, rather than from the polluted streams." But, alas, there is a sad side to this bright picture and to trace the cause of it we also must go to the Word of God. We there read that even in the days of Paul, "MANY" had turned aside from the TRUTH that he taught, and he foretold that in this respect, matters would wax worse and worse, that men should TURN AWAY their ears from the teachings of the apostles of the Lord, and give heed to those who ADD the Law to the Gospel. Already in the days of Pau,l we see how many there were who would fain make up "another gospel" by adding on the law; as if the Church of God were but a "Continuous" of His Old Testament people. Many who would prefer to the Old garment patched with the New cloth, and who would put the new Wine into the old bottles. We need NOT, therefore, be surprised to find that while the "Brethren" regarded EVERY word of Christ as Infallible, they considered the word of the apostles as of LESS authority. They went consequently to the Sermon on the Mount, rather than to the Epistles, for rules of practice; and supposed that the apostles were more or less enlightened according to the states of their souls. They did not, therefor,e regard the Epistles simple as the Word of God Himself, in whom is no variableness nor shadow of turning. They held them in reverence, and do NOT seem to have denied or disputed any part of them, but they considered that the words spoken by Christ when on earth, were more to be regarded. But, the truth is, that the doctrines we profess, even if perfectly in accordance with the Bible, may or may not have been taught us by God Himself.

Each one really learns only as MUCH as he has, himself, received from God. And, the Lord teaches most to those who look simply to HIM, and who walk according to that which they have already received. This, too, is the true explanation of the darkness of those ages in which the despised "Brethren" shone as light in the world. Without Creed or Catechisms---scattered aboard from Spain to Hungary, from Calabria (Italy) to England from provence to Eastern Prussia, their faith was one and the SAME their teaching all alike for their one authority was the Word of God.

And so it came to pass, that long before the first flight of the ancestors of the Vaudois/Waldenses to the mountain valleys Piedmont, the blessed Gospel of the Lord was, but half believed, among the most enlightened. They had forgotten the great and wonderful teachings of Paul, and understood but little which they remembered. They went back to the days before the death and resurrection and ascension of the Lord Jesus, not seeing that as the seal set upon His blessed work, God was calling out from ALL nations those who should be joined to Christ in heaven by the Holy Ghost, to be ONE body, the Body of Christ.

The Preaching of the Two and Two Brethren

The "Brethren", themselves, were great preachers, for there had always been amongst them missionary preachers, called "apostles," simply meaning thereby, "Person Sent." These apostles went out TWO and TWO, generally an older and a younger man. When they reached a house of a "Brother," they were lodged and fed gladly, for all the "Brethren" were taught that God was pleased, if His messengers were lovingly welcome in his name. Many of these preachers were students of medicine, and, therefore, their journey from land to land were what we should call a "medical mission." But, the object was the SOUL. And, faithfully, bravely, and diligently did they give themselves up to this great and blessed work. It was a day to be remembered by many, now "present with the Lord," when the "Friends of God," as they were commonly called, were lodged for awhile---perhaps in some stately castle or perhaps in some cowherd's cottage, wherever there was an open door, they were to be found preaching and teachings Jesus Christ. It was a custom among those who could NOT travel about, but who had been taught of the Lord, and who cared for souls to send letters addressed to the different meetings of the brethren in the distant places. Thus, was the teaching spread aboard, by means of the traveling apostles, who were told privately to which meetings the letters were to be taken. It would have been dangerous to write any address, so they were merely directed to "Christian Brethren" in general. The apostles preached wherever they could, generally in the open air. They also had prayer meetings and Bible reading in "PRIVATE houses." We find that amongst all the "Brethren," in whatever country they might be, they were regular in the habit of daily family prayers, and giving thanks before their meals.

The Friends of God Did NOT Build Church Buildings

They went from time to time with their neighbors to the services in the churches, but though this was NOT against their conscience, it was against their inclination. In those days, when the magnificent cathedrals of Europe were rising in all their glory from amongst the dark and narrow streets, the "Brethren" turned sadly away, and said, "The Lord dwelleth NOT in temples made with hands, for we are the LIVING temple in whom God the Spirit dwells." They buil,t for themselves, simple and modest houses of prayer, and refuges for the poor adjoining. They sang no masses, and made no attempt to please the eye or charm the ear. "For Christ," they said, "has promised, that where Two or Three are gathered together in His name there is He;" and where He is the solemn sense of His presence, and there is comfort, strength and joy. They ate the Lord's Supper together, taking both the Bread and Wine. They said that the Supper was "Remembrance of Him" who became the Bread of Life for His own, whose body was broken on the cross. And, it should remind us also, said they, the we are ALL one body in Him, and that we should be ready to lay down our lives for the brethren loving one another as He has loved us.

The Pilgrim Church

by E.H. Broadbent

Was Peter Waldo in 1160 A.D the Founder of the Vaudois Apostles?

Peter Waldo of Lyons, France, a successful merchant and banker, was aroused to see his need of Salvation, by a sudden death of one of the guest at a feast he had given. He became so much interested in the Scriptures that in (A.D. 1160) he employed clerks to translate parts into the Romance dialect. A theologian directed Waldo to the Lord Jesus' words in (Matthew 19:21) "If thou will be Perfect, go and SELL that thou has and give to the poor, and thou shall have treasure in heaven and come and Follow me."

Peter Waldo, therefore, in (A.D. 1173) made over his land property to his WIFE, sold the remainder and distributed it among the poor. For a time he devoted himself to study the scriptures, and then in (A.D. 1180), gave himself to traveling and preaching, taking as guide the Lord's words in (Matthew 10:1; Luke 10:1) Jesus sent His disciples TWO and TWO before his face into every city and place whither He himself would come. Therefore, Jesus said unto His disciples, "The Harvest truly is great, but the laborers are FEW; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest (the Father) that He would send forth laborers into His harvest. Go your ways. Carry neither purse nor script nor shoes."

Companions joined him and traveling and preaching in this Way came to be known as the "Poor of Lyons (France)". Their appeal for recognition (1179) to the third Lateran Council under Pope Alexander III, had already been scornfully refused. They were driven out of Lyons by Imperial edict and (1184) Excommunicated. Scattered over the surrounding countries, their preaching proved very effectual, and "Poor men of Lyons" became One of the many names attached to those who followed Christ and His disciples.

An old chronicles tells how as early as the year (1177) disciples of Peter Waldo came from Lyons, France to Germany and began to preach in Frankfurt (Germany) and in Nuremberg but, because, the Council in Nuremberg was warned that they should seize and burn them, they disappeared into Bohemia.

It has "Often" been said that a man called Peter Waldo, who lived in France about the year (A.D.1170), was really the "Founder" of this Sect, that was everywhere spoken against. But, history "Proves" that such could NOT be the case, as the tradition of their existence from the days of the Apostles can be traced back the years (A.D. 1311), and in the 13th century they are NOT only spoken of as having been known for a long while back, but as being numerous ALL over Western Europe. For instance, in (A.D.1150) they are heard of at Cologne, in (A.D. 1177) at Frankfurt, Nuremberg, and other Germans towns; in (A.D. 1170) they were forbidding their preaching. Pope Lucius III published an edict against them in (A.D.1184). Early in the next century we hear of them at Turin, in Savoy, and in Austria, where they were severed persecuted. They abound, at this time, in Piedmont and in Dauphins; ALL over the South of France, at Naples, in Sicily and southern Italy---in Netherland, Flanders, and Brabant--in Northern France and in England.

Peter Waldo was NOT the Founder of the Vaudois

The relations of "Peter Waldo" with the "Waldenses/Vaudois" were so intimate that many call him the "Founder" of a sect of that name, though others derive the name from the Alpine Valleys, Vallenses, in which so MANY of those believers lived. It is TRUE that Peter Waldo was highly esteemed among them, but "NOT" Possible that he should have been their "Founder" since they (Vaudois/Vallenses) founded their faith and practice on the scriptures and were followers of those who from the earliest time had done the same. For outsiders to give them the name of a man "Prominent" among them was ONLY to follow the usual habit of their opponents, who did NOT like to admit their Right to call, themselves as they did, "Christians" or "Brethren".

Peter Waldo continued his travels and eventually reached Bohemia, where he died (1217), having labored there for years and sown much seed. The accession of Peter Waldo and his band of preachers gave an extraordinary impetus to the missionary activities of the "Waldenses," who, until this time, had somewhat isolated in their remote valleys Piedmont, but now went Everywhere preaching.

Some have suggested that Claudius of Turin, was the "Founder" of the Waldenses in the mountains of Piedmont (Italy). He and they had much in common, and must have strengthened and encouraged one another, but the brethren called "Waldenses" were of much older Origin. A prior of St. Roch at Turin, Marco Aurelio Rorenco, was ordered in (A.D 1630) to write an account of the history and opinions of the Waldenses. He wrote that the Waldenses are so ANCIENT as to afford no absolute certainty in regard to the precise time as to their Origin, but that, at all events, in the 9th and 10th centuries they were NOT a New Sect.

The Apostles/Disciples of Vaudois

Some among the brethren devoted themselves entirely to traveling and ministering the Word and were called "the Perfect" and in accordance with the Lord's word in (Matthew 19:21) "If thou will be Perfect, go and SELL that thou has, and give to the poor, and thou shall have treasures in heaven, and come and follow me." The apostles or the Perfect "Possess nothing," they had NO homes, and Literally Acted upon this command. It was recognize that ALL believers are NOT call to such a path, and that the MAJORITY of believers, while acknowledge that they and ALL belong to Christ, should serve Him while "Remaining" in their families and continuing their usual occupations.

Those whom they called "Apostles" played an important part in their testimony. While the elders of the churches and believers "Remained" in their homes, the "Apostles" traveled continually, visiting the churches. A distinction was made between those called to be Apostles or Perfect, and others followers of Christ, based on the fact that in the Gospel some were called to SELL ALL that they had and follow Christ, while others of His disciples were equally called to serve Him in the surroundings in which He found them.

The Vaudois Apostles

The Vaudois/Waldensian Apostles had NO property or goods or home or family; if they HAD these they left them. Their life was one of self-denial, hardship and danger. They traveled in utmost simplicity, without money, without second suit, their needs being supplied by the "Believers" among whom they ministered the Word. They Always go Two and Two, an elder and a younger man, of whom the latter waited on his older companion. (no need for theological training since the younger companion gets on-the-job training guidance from the older companion and the Holy Spirit). No need for seminary school since the Holy Spirit is the only Teacher they need. Their visits were highly esteemed, and they were treated with every token of respect and affection. They NEVER ask for anything; indeed, many undertook serious medical studies that they might be able to care for the bodies of those they met with. The Name "Friends of God" was often given to them.

The Heroic Men/Women For Religion of Jesus Christ

by James D. Mc Caabe (1888)

(II Timothy 2:1,2) Paul wrote to Timothy, a younger companion or fellow-worker. Thou. therefore. my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And, the things that thou has HEARD of me, saying in the presence of many Witnesses, the same "Entrust" thou to faithful MEN who shall be qualified to teach others also.

The apostles Always went Two and Two, a younger man and an older one. The younger ones were thus "Imitated" into the dedicated duties of evangelization, each of them under "Experience" guidance of a man of years who, according to the disciples of the Church was his superior, and whom he bound to everything as a matter of duty and not merely out of respect. The older man on his part, thus made his "Preparation" on by training for the church "Successors" worthy of it and of himself.

The older ones task being accomplished, he could die in peace, with consolatory assurance of having committed the "Sacred Trust" of the Gospel into Prudence and Zealous hands. Their maintenance of the Obsolete authority of the Word of God, and of the doctrine of Salvation through Jesus Christ. The Vaudois, therefore, NOT schematics, but "Continue Inheritors" of the church founded by the Apostles.

Married Apostles

The Vaudois called themselves only the name of Christians. They were divided into TWO classes, the "Perfect" or "Apostles," and the "Friends" or "Believers," among the perfect, bound by vow of poverty, wandered about from Place to Place preaching. Such an itinerant life was ill-suited for married stated, and to the profession of poverty they added the vow of Chasity. "VERY FEW" of them were married in the ministry and their perpetual missions, their poverty, their missionary tours, their lives always spent amid warfare and Danger make it easy to Understand the reason of their celibacy!!

The apostles were NOT allowed to perform manual labor, but do depend their subsistence on the members of the sect known as "FRIENDS." The Friends continue to live in the world, married, own property and are engaged in secular pursuits. Their generosity and alms were to "Provide" for material needs of the Apostles.

Women Apostles/Preachers

The Vaudois/Waldenses still went further in shocking Old-Timer custom, and claim the right to PREACH for Women, as well as Men, and when Paul's enjoining silence upon the women were quoted, they replied it was with them more of a question of Teaching than of formal Preaching, and quoted back (Titus 2:3) "The aged women should be teachers of good things."

Regular individual reading of the scriptures, regular daily family worship, and frequent Conferences (conventions?) were among most highly-prized means of maintaining spiritual life. These saints take NO part in government. They said the Apostles were often brought before tribunals but it never said they sat as judges. They value education as well as spirituality; many who ministered the Word among them had taken a degree at one of the Universities. Pope Innocent III (1198-1261) bored a double testimony to them when he said that among the Vaudois/Waldenses educated laymen undertook the functions of preachers, and again, that the Waldenses would ONLY listen to a man who had God in him. Paul was the Founder of the Vaudois: The Pilgrim Church by E.H.Broadbent (page 92)

The Vaudois Christians, are in fact, "Descended" from those refugees from Italy, who after Paul, the apostle, had there preached the Gospel, from father to son, in the same Purity and simplicity as it was preached by Paul approximately in (A.D. 66-68). In the valley of Piedmont there had been, for centuries, congregations of believers calling themselves brethren who came later to be widely known as "Waldenses or Vaudois," though they did NOT themselves accept the name. They traced their origin in those parts back to the apostolic times. Like many of the so-called Cathar, Paulican, and other churches, these were NOT "Reformed" NEVER having degenerated from the New Testament Pattern as had the Roman Catholic, Greek orthodox, and some others, but having always maintained, in varying degree, the Apostolic tradition.

Apostolic Fathers' Writing About Paul Went To Spain

(Romans 15:24) Whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you.

Origin (A.D. 248) Paul was, After Jesus, the FOUNDER of the churches that are in Christ. Paul was made fit to be a minister of the new covenant. The best master builder of Christ, Paul himself has laid the foundation, that is, the foundation of the church.

Clement of Rome (A.D 96) After preaching both in the east and west Paul gained the illustrious reputation due to his faith, having taught righteousness to the whole world, and having come to the extreme limit of the west. [the "extreme limit of the west probably refers to either Spain or Britain.] He finally suffered martyrdom in Rome.

Muratorian Fragment (A.D.200) The principle on which Luke wrote was to write only of what fell under his own notice. And, he shows this clearly by the omission of the martyrdom of Peter, and also of the journey of Paul, when he went forth from the city of Rome to Spain. Lactantius (A.D 320) Peter and Paul preached in Rome. It was Nero who first persecuted the servants of God. He crucified Peter and slew Paul in Rome.

Vaudois Apostles' History

From the time of emperor Constantine 3rd century there HAD Continued to be a "Succession" of those who preached the Gospel and found churches, uninfluenced by the relations between church and state existing at the time. This accounts for the large bodies of Christians well established in the Scriptures, and free from idolatry and other evil prevailing in the dominant professing church, to be found in the Taurus Mountains and the Alpine valleys. It was said of them that their whole manner of thought and action was an endeavor to "HOLD FAST" the character of original Christianity.

They believed in "Apostolic Succession" through the laying on of hands of such as had it on those really called to receive this grace. They taught that the Church of Rome had LOST this when Pope Sylvester (A.D. 320) accepted the union of Church and State, but that it "Remained" among themselves.

Pilichdorf, a bitter opponent of the Vaudois, says that the Waldenses/Vaudois have existed from the time of Pope Sylvester (A.D. 320). Marco Aurelio Rorenco, was ordered in (A.D 1630) to write an account of the history and opinion of the Waldenses. He wrote that the Waldenses/Vaudois are so ancient as to afford no absolute certainty in regard to the precise time of their ORIGIN, but that, at all events, in the 9th and 10th centuries the were even NOT a New Sect.

The brethren in the Valleys "NEVER" lost the knowledge and consciousness of their origin and unbroken history there. When, from the 14th century, they always emphasized this to the Prince of Savoy, who had the longest dealing with them, they could Always assert without fear of contradiction the uniformity of their faith, from "Father to Son," through time immemorial, even from the Very age of the Apostles.

To Francis I of France they said, in 1544 A.D. "This confession is that we have received from our ancestors even from hand to hand, according as their Predecessors in all time and in EVERY age have taught and delivered. Let your Highness consider, that this religion in which we live is NOT merely our religion of the present day, or a religion discovered for the FIRST time only a FEW years ago, as our enemies falsely pretend, but it is religion of our fathers and of our grandfathers, yea, of our fore-fathers and of our predecessors still more remote. It is religion of the Saints and of the Martyrs of the confessors and of the Apostles."

When they came into contact with the Reformers in the 16th century they said: "Our ancestors have often recounted to us that we have EXISTED from the time of the Apostles. In all matters, nevertheless, we agree with you, and thinking as you think, from the very days of the Apostles themselves, we have consistent respecting the faith."

On the return of the Vaudois to their valleys, their leader, Henri Arnold, in 1689 said that their religion is as primitive as their name is venerable is attested even by their adversaries. It would not be difficult to prove that this poor band of faithful were in the valleys of Piedmont more than FOUR centuries before the appearance of Luther and Calvin.

A.D. 30-33 (Matthew 16:13-20) Jesus said to Peter, " Thou art Peter, and upon this ROCK I will build MY church and the "GATES of HELL" shall NOT prevail against it... (Matthew 24:14) Jesus said to his disciples and apostles, "And this Gospel of the Kingdom shall be Preached in ALL the world for a Witness unto ALL nations; and THEN shall the end come." (Matthew 28:16-20) Jesus commanded his disciples and apostles, "ALL power is given to me, Go! ye therefore and Teach ALL nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe ALL things whatsoever I have commanded you. And Lo, I am with you always even unto the end of the world."

(Acts 1:8) Jesus said to his disciples and apostles, "Ye shall receive Power, when the Holy Spirit comes upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto ME, both in Jerusalem, and in ALL Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the ENDS parts of the earth." A.D. 90 (Revelation 14:6-20) I (John the apostle) saw another angel fly in the midst of the heaven, having the "Everlasting" Gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to Every Nation, Kindred, Languages, and People...(Verse 15) And another angel came out of the temple crying with a loud voice to him sat on the cloud, "Take you sickle and REAP, for the time has come for you to REAP!: for the harvest of the earth was HARVESTED...A.D 33 (Matthew 24:29-31) Jesus said,"immediately after the tribulation of those days...And then shall appear the sign of the Son of Man in the sky, and then shall ALL the nations of the earth will mourn, and they shall SEE the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with Power and glory. And He shall send his angels with a great sound of trumpet, and they shall gather together His Elect from the FOUR Winds, from one end of the heaven to the other.

Rapture To The Marriage Supper of the Lamb in Heaven

(Revelation 19:1-9) The Lord God Omnipotent reigneth. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the Marriage Supper of the Lamb has come, and his wife (the Church/the Bride) has made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should arrayed in fine linen, clean and white for the linen is the righteousness of Saints And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they who are Called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb. These are the true saying of God.