Article September 1, 1951 Issue

FOLLOWING OUR EXEMPLAR

ANNA COYKENDALL BOWLBY

To many, the Biblical record of the Saviour's earthly pilgrimage may seem so far removed from the problems of today as to be obscure and impractical. However, when that account is studied in conjunction with the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, then each saying attains present and vital significance, and we see that the individual experiences of all who seek to follow the Master parallel in some degree his trials and victories.

Beginning with the latter part of the third chapter of Matthew and carrying over into the fourth chapter is a series of events that may well be studied. It starts with the beautiful account of Jesus' baptism by John, after which we read, "Lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

With what joy the student of Christian Science learns the true meaning of baptism as given on page 581 of his textbook: "Purification by Spirit; submergence in Spirit." Then to him from the perfection and harmony of infinite Love come the Father's recognition and the expression of His pleasure in His likeness. In the awareness of his identification with omnipotence, Jesus went forth into the wilderness and kept his fast for forty days and forty nights as today one who has glimpsed his sonship will enter into that glorious unfoldment, abstaining from pursuits and indulgences which would dim the revelation.

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FOLLOWING OUR EXEMPLAR

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