The Dissolution of Darbyism—The Later Schisms—Open Brethrenism
Throughout the year 1882 the formation of the rival parties went forward in England. As yet it was only making a beginning abroad.
Almost with the opening of the year poor Dr. Cronin passed away. He died in a frame of mind that any Christian might envy. The following are his son’s words: “Nor did he ever allude to the great and sore trouble which had broken our beloved mother’s heart, hastened her death and crushed him! I refer to his having been cast out by that body whom he had so loved and laboured for, nearly half a century. … He was constantly repeating the names of our Lord.” Almost at the last, he sang clearly the verse,
“Glory, honour, praise and power
Be unto the Lamb for ever!
Jesus Christ is my Redeemer!
Hallelujah! Praise ye the Lord.”
The simple devotion of these well-known lines faithfully reflected the childlike, fervent spirit by which the dying man had been characterised through life.
Darby did not long survive his old friend. He died at Bournemouth on the 29th of April, from a gradual breakdown of the entire system. He was in his eighty-second year. It is pleasant to know that before he left
