Article February 5, 1910 Issue

THE STUDY OF CHRISTIAN SCIENCE

SAMUEL GREENWOOD.

It need hardly be said at this day that the only correct method of studying Christian Science is that given in its text-book, Science and Health, and that any deviation therefrom will surely lead to misconceptions of the subject. Mistaken conclusions regarding the teaching and practice of Christian Science, keeping, as they do, to the line of matter and the so-called human mind, are incapable of grasping or demonstrating the spiritual facts of being upon which this Science rests. Hence the only safe course for the student is to avoid whatever does not find its authority in the published writings of Mrs. Eddy, the Discoverer of Christian Science and the Founder and Leader of the movement.

The statement that one is studying Christian Science often means no more than that he is perusing its literature, whereas to understand this Science requires much more attention than ordinary study implies. While it is highly interesting to read Science and Health from a literary point of view, or from the pure love of good literature, the heart of the subject is reached only through its spiritual apprehension, a result which mere intellectual proficiency does not of itself forward. A text-book is a manual of instruction, a means toward an end, and it is studied solely for the purpose of enabling one to reach that end. It is possible to memorize an entire text-book and yet not know the first practical thing about the subject it elucidates: and in like manner, one's familiarity with the letter of Christian Science does not necessarily indicate the ability to present its proofs, and should not be mistaken therefor either by its possessor or by others.

A thorough knowledge of the letter of Christian Science is essential for the student, but he also needs his own personal demonstration, not only to test his understanding but in order to realize the practical benefits of this teaching. Thus doing he will fulfil the apostle's injunction to "prove his own work." and be enabled to rejoice in his own knowledge of the truth. It may be that some who name themselves Christian Scientists do not fully recognize this necessity, believing that the regular perusal of its literature and periodicals, and the taking of treatment for their ills, constitute them students of Christian Science, although they may be making little or no attempt to demonstrate its teachings for themselves.

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