Article February 5, 1910 Issue

Mrs. Eddy tells us in the Christian Science text-book...

James D. Sherwood

Denison (Tex.) Herald

Mrs. Eddy tells us in the Christian Science text-book that the Bible was her only guide in the straight and narrow way when she was engaged in writing "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." Mrs. Eddy only claims to be the Discoverer of the method of Christian healing, which Christ Jesus taught and practised, and which his disciples followed up to the fourth century. She has named her discovery Christian Science, and it elucidates the Science of being. Superstition is not Science, and it has no kinship with Christian Science practice.

Science and Health may seem difficult of comprehension to the mind of our critic, because of prejudice; while to another, an unbiased thinker, an understanding of God can be gained by a study of its contents that will enable him to heal the sick as Jesus commanded. Instead of belittling the healing work of Christian Science by unjust comparisons, our Christian brother should remember the frequent mention of healing recorded in the Holy Bible, and that the same accusation he makes was brought against the works of the Master. It was then said that Jesus accomplished his healing work through Beelzebub, the prince of devils, whereas Jesus himself declared it was with the finger of God he cast out devils and healed the sick, and that his method brought the kingdom of heaven to the apprehension of men. In like manner the healing work is being repeated today; and it is a notable fact and one generally acknowledged, that when Christian Science heals the sick it simultaneously lifts the thought of the afflicted, and in doing this makes them better men and women. This kind of healing is spiritual. It is Christian, and through it is coming salvation to the children of men on earth.

Mere words are of but little value. In this age works are demanded and proof is essential. Our critic, if wise, will refrain from an ineffectual attempt to oppose religious sentiment with calumny and abuse. He should recall the struggles of Alexander Campbell and his early followers, and remember how hostility to Campbell only strengthened his purpose and aided him in establishing the church in which our critic now serves and in turn misrepresents a reformer whose only purpose and intent is to lighten the burdens of humanity. It might seem that modesty would suggest to him a forbearance sufficient to allow the Christian Scientists to make proof of their profession. The fact is that Christian Science is furnishing this proof, and persecution is in consequence of the proof given. This is history repeating itself. In the days of the early church persecution came from the Pharisees; and, we find human nature has not changed unto this day. Knowing this to be so, and understanding what is opposing, we may feel justified in being patient with those who oppose us, and say in the language of our Master, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do."

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