Editorial January 30, 1904 Issue

Self-Denial

K.

Self-obliteration has always held a prominent place in the thought of the followers of the Nazarene Prophet, and this is not to be wondered at in view of the fact that it was given such emphasis by him.

Among the numerous Christian sects there is no difference of opinion as to the desirability of obeying the Master's teaching, although there is a decided lack of agreement as to how this obedience can best be rendered. His teaching respecting self-denial, is thus definitely stated by the Evangelist, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." These words have touched the hearts of millions, and none would question that the world has been made better by every effort thus to "follow" Jesus. The sad thing is, that so many have misunderstood his admonition, "let him deny himself," and have made for themselves heavy crosses which it was never intended they should bear. Thus burdened they have been unable to do the one thing for which they have striven; namely, to follow Christ. Many have sought to deny themselves, while believing in the reality of the things given up. We are nowhere told that Jesus assumed burdens in order to become more spiritual, we are told, however, that he was ever removing burdens from the heavy-laden. He was inspired by a lofty purpose, and he knew that in order to fulfil it he must deny himself daily, and take up his cross.

In harmony with his example Christian Science teaches that we can not, and should not deny anything which expresses God, either in man or the universe. It shows with equal clearness that we must deny the reality of everything which does not express God, and for this we have the authority of Jesus' teaching, as well as the clear statements and deductions of our text-book, which says, "Denial of the claims of matter is a great step toward the joys of Spirit, toward human freedom, and toward triumph over the body" (Science and Health, p. 242).

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January 30, 1904
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