Article April 16, 1910 Issue

I would suggest to this critic, before he again "lifts the...

Bellefontaine (O.) Examiner

I would suggest to this critic, before he again "lifts the veil and assumes the pressure," that he mingle with these people and obtain authentic knowledge concerning them, learning from them that Christ's teachings can be carried into every-day life,—in all their dealings with mankind as vigorously as upon the Sabbath. Go into the little gatherings where two or three are met together, bowed in silent prayer, amidst persecution and ridicule, crying as did the meek and lowly Nazarene on Calvary, "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." Then visit their crowded churches and view the vast assemblages drawn together by the influence of love, not fear, to hear of "Jesus Christ, and him crucified." Do not condemn them for the absence of "live wires" and "cyclones," for they doubt the beneficial results of explosive attractions. Bear with them in their silent prayers to the throne of grace, for they doubt the efficacy of any effort to attract the attention of the Almighty through either petitions or oratory. Censure them not for the belief that God created man perfectly free from sin, sickness, and death, in His own likeness, and their desire to reestablish these conditions. If they believe that Christ was once able to cast out devils and heal the sick, and is still able and willing to continue it, do not disturb them. If they claim there is no sensation in matter, examine the nearest brain to you and be convinced. If in your association with them you find, from their daily lives and conduct, that they are sons and daughters of God, without publication of the facts in the daily press, attribute it to their meekness and humility.

For the past twenty years I have been closely associated, both in business and worship, with Christian Scientists in various localities, and both experience and observation have demonstrated to me that no class of worshipers, with the Bible for their guide, are more conscientiously Christian not only on the Sabbath but in all that pertains to their fellow-man throughout the week. Their zeal for the elevation of humanity and to Christianize the world is too great to pull the ladders from beneath other denominations who are striving to reach the throne of grace by some other route. I have never heard uttered by them one unkind word against other sects or creeds. I am not a Christian Scientist, but after my long association with them, I would be dead to all appreciation of their many kindnesses to me, were I quietly to see them maliciously vallified through the public press in this community where they and their works are so little known and understood. In conclusion, I would ask the critic to cover the shortcomings of these people with the mantle of charity, and remember the command of the Master, "Judge not, that ye be not judged."

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