Article April 3, 1909 Issue

Christian Science does not take away the Bible and substitute...

J. V. Dittemore

Batavia (N. Y.) Times

Christian Science does not take away the Bible and substitute Mrs. Eddy's text-book, as our critic charges. Science and Health may be said to be the Christian Scientists' commentary on the Bible. Almost every denomination has its Bible commentaries or "help," and why cannot a Christian Scientist have his, especially when it has proven, even according to the critic, to have produced such good results. One of the principal tenets of the Christian Science church states that "as adherents of Truth, we take the inspired Word of the Bible as our sufficient guide to eternal Life" (Science and Health. p. 497).

The clergyman criticizes Christian Scientists for charging a fee for their services, when, he tells us, the services of ministers are "freely given." If Christian Scientists like clergymen received a salary, they would gladly perform any duties which fell to their lot without further remuneration. No person who is honest is kept from receiving help in Christian Science on account of his temporary inability to pay, but those who are devoting their lives to the practice of Christian Science, or to any other system of good works, are entitled to proper compensation from those who avail themselves of such services. That "the laborer is worthy of his hire" was a fundamental teaching of the Master. It is a pauperizing suggestion to make any one believe that they are unable to give value received. "The noblest charity is to prevent a man from accepting charity."

Every great religious movement has passed through periods of bitter antagonism. Jesus Christ himself was assailed, misrepresented, and crucified for the truth he taught. After all has been said, we can rest the future of Christian Science, or of any other system of religious teaching, on no better basis than that expressed by a certain doctor of the law, Gamaliel by name, who two thousand years ago said of the doctrines of the great Nazarene, that "if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: but if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it." Christian Scientists are willing to have their faith stand or fall by this test.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
The bishop says of sin that the Christian Scientist ignores...
April 3, 1909
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit