Article November 12, 1910 Issue

Religious teachers frequently and perhaps unconsciously...

Charles F. Kraft

Bellingham (Wash.) Herald

Religious teachers frequently and perhaps unconsciously take advantage of the fact that the term "salvation" is susceptible of very broad interpretation, at least in a religious sense. Christian Scientists use this term in its broadest signification. They recognize that to be rescued from any bondage of evil is to be "saved" from that particular evil. As supporting his contention that the prevalent teachings of the church do not point mankind mainly to a state of future punishment or reward, our critic quotes the familiar text, "Now is the day of salvation," as representing the church's teaching; "but," he adds, "this does not refer to men's bodies, but to their souls." The text, "If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death," is also declared to refer to the same thing. In practice the church directs the sick man to the medical doctor and is told to pray that God will bless the means employed. If the means employed fail and the man dies, the bereaved friends are exhorted to "be resigned to the will of God." Logically, the responsibility is thus thrown upon God. Christ Jesus declared that to know (understand) God, is "life eternal." He also promised to those who should continue in his word, a knowledge of the truth which should make them free. It is this knowledge, or understanding, which Christian Science is bringing to the world, that is freeing mankind from every from of vice and suffering. This understanding was not to be the result of scholarly attainment, as may be inferred from our critic's position, but, as Paul declared concerning all the things of God, good, they must be "spiritually discerned." Christian Scientists believe that it is possible now, as in the time of Enoch and Elijah, for men so closely to "walk with God" as to rise above all sense of death.

Vague charges of neglect and unscrupulous dealing are made against Christian Scientists by the reverend gentleman. In all my experience as a student and beneficiary of Christian Science, during a period extending over nearly fifteen years, I have never seen anything that by the wildest stretch of imagination could be compared to the ridiculous and unchristian practices he has described. They are sufficiently remarkable to warrant careful investigation. Referring to the lecturer's account of his own healing, the gentleman incidentally observes that "he did not state the nature of his healing." I have heard the speaker's detailed account of his healing, and feel certain that he will gladly give it to any who may wish to hear it, as well as ample means for verifying the truth of his statements. The well recognized intelligence of the average Christian Scientist precludes the belief that they are anything but tender and loving in their care for the suffering, and careful investigators declare that they make use of the best means for their comfort and relief. Personally I have seen the hardened sinner reclaimed and rescued from nearly every form of vice and nearly every ill that flesh is heir to,—healed through the ministrations of Christian Science. The best test of a tree is in its fruits.

Because Mrs. Eddy "follows not with us," she is accused of misusing the Bible, although the more spiritual interpretation of the Scriptures which she has given to the world has brought a multitude into a consciously closer relationship with God and led them into healthier and holier living. The Master once rebuked his immediate disciples under like circumstances with the words, "He that is not against us is on our part." The Christian Science view of the Bible has made it logical, consistent, and practical to its adherents. They are learning that, as like produces like, so an infinitely good God cannot be the source or author of evil in any form, physical or otherwise.

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit

Religious teachers frequently and perhaps unconsciously...

We'd love to hear from you!

Sign up for unlimited access