Article August 15, 1936 Issue

"Questions and answers"

MARY COWLES VILLERE

“Not by the hearing of the ear is spiritual truth learned and loved; nor cometh this apprehension from the experiences of others." These words from "Retrospection and Introspection" (p. 79) by Mary Baker Eddy state a truth that is worthy of consideration by all appointed to teach in the Christian Science Sunday School.

Coming to his class with the desire to share the good that has been revealed through study of the Bible and Science and Health, the teacher may find it easy to slip into the temptation to talk profusely about Christian Science to the pupils. The motive in doing this is kindly, but the Manual gives specific instruction concerning "first lessons," and also states that "the next lessons consist of such questions and answers as are adapted to a juvenile class" (Manual, Art. XX, Sect. 3). A dictionary defines "question," in part, as "the act of asking"; and "answer" as "an adequate reply." A reply, to be adequate or complete, must show clear comprehension, must be the result of correct reasoning, of intelligent consideration.

A pupil who has thought out an answer to a question understands both; and the answer will mean more to him than if, without effort on his part, he had merely listened to a statement made by another. As questions and answers pertaining to the Lesson-Sermon are understood, they become part of his mental quipment, his protection and help.

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Christ's Government
August 15, 1936
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