The apostasy was so widespread that only seven "churches," i. e., branches of the Church remained

[kirtland r.m.]

Here is a sample of "Highlights of The Great Apostasy thread by James E. Talmage" including the heading quote. Amazing information really.

Page 12. Jude admonished the saints to be on their guard against men who were in the service of Satan seeking to corrupt the Church. Addressing himself "to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ," he said: "It was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ."--(Jude 3, 4. See Note 5, end of chapter.)



Page 42 During the banishment of John the Revelator on the Isle of Patmos, when nearly all the apostles had been taken from the earth, many of them having suffered martyrdom, the apostasy was so widespread that only seven "churches," i. e., branches of the Church, remained in such condition as to be considered deserving of the special communication John was instructed to give. In a marvelous vision he beheld the seven churches typified by seven golden candlesticks, with seven stars representing the presiding officers of the several churches; and in the midst of the golden candlesticks, with the stars in his hand, stood "one like unto the Son of Man."

Read more at this link.
viewtopic.php?f=2&t=49038&p=872864&hili ... sy#p872864

[Robin Hood]

This is not the case.
There were many church congregations that were not apostate at that time.
It is well known by many religious historians that churches in far flung places were still ok and remained so for a considerable time. The churches of the British Isles (Celtic Church) being a good example.
Indeed some scholars agree, as did Joseph Smith, that a general and total apostasy wasn't confirmed until 570AD.

[kirtland r.m.]

This is not the case.
There were many church congregations that were not apostate at that time.
It is well known by many religious historians that churches in far flung places were still ok and remained so for a considerable time. The churches of the British Isles (Celtic Church) being a good example.
Indeed some scholars agree, as did Joseph Smith, that a general and total apostasy wasn't confirmed until 570AD.

Hi Robin, post your info. if you have some on this. Thanks.