E.H. Broadbent preaches about the historical events surrounding the Fall of Rome, the teachings of Augustine and the controversies he faced, the rise of false doctrines like Pelagianism and Sacerdotalism, the emergence of Monasticism led by figures like Benedict of Nursia and Bernard of Clairvaux, and the missionary activities during troubled times. The sermon also delves into the persecution of Priscillian and his followers, highlighting the discovery of Priscillian's writings that revealed his true character and teachings.

E.H. Broadbent discusses the gradual attack of the Roman Empire on the churches, leading to the martyrdom of key Apostles like Peter and Paul. The destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 highlighted the lack of a visible head or center for the churches on earth. As time passed, there was a noticeable decline in writings that were not included in the canon of inspired Scriptures, showing a departure from the divine principles of the New Testament. The first Epistle of Clement to the Corinthians, written during the Apostle John's lifetime, provides insight into the churches at the end of the Apostolic period, emphasizing perseverance through persecutions and a humble attitude towards duty and faith.

E.H. Broadbent preaches about the historical conflict between the Roman Church clergy and ordinary believers who emphasized holiness and renewal by the Holy Spirit, breaking down the clergy-laity distinction. The divergent views of the Church led to persecution of those who desired independence and adherence to Scripture. The persistence of primitive churches, distorted histories, and the growth of clerical domination are highlighted, along with the persecution faced by saints who refused to comply with the dominant World-Church. The misuse of history, obliteration of true histories, and the spread of idolatry and image worship are discussed, leading to the rise of movements like the Paulicians and Bogomils who denounced idolatry and faced severe persecution.

Persecution by Theodora: Theodora ordered systematic slaughter, beheading, burning, and drowning of believers, resulting in the death of 100,000 persons between 842 and 867. Despite the persecution, the believers remained steadfast. The Armenian book 'The Key of Truth' describes the beliefs and practices of the Paulicians, emphasizing the importance of repentance, faith, and baptism. The believers faced intense persecution but stood firm in their faith, even when faced with imprisonment and death.

E.H. Broadbent preaches about the early Christian movements, focusing on the teachings of Pierre de Brueys and Henri of Cluny who emphasized returning to the Scriptures and rejecting certain practices of the Roman Church. The followers were known by various names like Petrobrussians and Henricians, but they themselves did not acknowledge any specific founder. The Albigenses, a name given to them later, faced trials and confessions of faith that varied in degree from Roman Catholic beliefs. Despite spiritual unrest and diverse ideas, these believers, often called 'Good Men,' lived lives of simplicity and piety, contrasting with the clergy's self-indulgence.

E. H. Broadbent, in 'The Pilgrim Church', provides an account of the continuation of churches practicing the principles taught in the New Testament through succeeding centuries. The history of the Church, still in the making, is highlighted, with parts of it being written and added to as the long pilgrimage progresses. Broadbent's narrative includes the contributions of various authors and the experiences of churches striving to make the Scriptures their guide and act upon them as the Word of God. He discusses the formation of churches, the influence of Jewish religion, Greek philosophy, and Roman power, as well as the emergence of spiritual movements like the Montanists, Marcionites, Novatians, Donatists, and Manichaeans, each reflecting different responses to the evolving Church landscape.

E.H. Broadbent preaches about the early Christians' distinct way of life, living as citizens of heaven while obeying earthly laws, enduring suffering and persecution for their faith in God. The Epistle to Diognetus highlights the Christians' unwavering devotion to Jesus as the Son of God, sent as a Saviour to bear the burden of their sins, showcasing the profound love and sacrifice of Christ. Despite severe Roman persecution, the Christians' steadfastness and refusal to compromise their faith eventually led to the unexpected end of persecution through Constantine's edict, demonstrating the power of faith and endurance in the face of adversity.

E.H. Broadbent preaches about the historical devastation and persecution faced by the brethren in Languedoc, Provence, and the Alpine valleys, such as the Albigenses, Waldenses, and Poor Men of Lyons, who held firm to their beliefs despite ruthless crusades and inquisitions by the Roman Church. The sermon highlights the unwavering faith and commitment of these believers to follow Christ and uphold the teachings of the Scriptures, even in the face of severe persecution, martyrdom, and the destruction of their churches and communities.

Walther of Cologne, Meister Eckart, and Johannes Tauler were influential figures in the 14th century, facing persecution for their teachings and beliefs. Tauler, in particular, stood firm in his faith, even in the face of opposition from the Emperor and the Pope. The spread of heresy and the subsequent persecution of believers led to a wave of executions and burnings across Europe. The 15th-century Renaissance brought about a transformation in Europe, with the rediscovery of Greek literature, the invention of printing, and the study of the New Testament challenging the corrupt practices of the Roman Church. Erasmus played a significant role in advocating for reform through the dissemination of the Greek New Testament and exposing the shortcomings of the clergy.

E.H. Broadbent emphasizes the significance of the New Testament as the worthy completion of the Old Testament, enriching and fulfilling the Law and the Prophets. He highlights that the New Testament presents a revelation suited to all men in all times, with Jesus Christ best known through the Gospels and the doctrines from His death and resurrection taught in the Epistles. Broadbent also discusses how the Old Testament reveals the history of Israel, while the New Testament unveils the Church of Christ, composed of all who are born again through faith in Jesus.