Article July 26, 1913 Issue

In a discourse on "The Church of the Future," given at a...

Thomas F. Watson

Petaluma (Cal.) Courier

In a discourse on "The Church of the Future," given at a church in Petaluma, the reverend gentleman said the Scriptures teach "unity of Christians." He also exhorted his followers to hold out for this "unity," and beware of such imitations as "Eddyism," etc. Now, if the gentleman refers to Christian Science, why not call it by its right name? Of course there is no such thing as "Eddyism," even though Mrs. Eddy is the beloved Founder of the Christian Science church. Calvin founded the Presbyterian church,—some individual had to found it,—but Presbyterianism is not usually called "Calvinism," neither is the Methodist faith designated "Wesleyism."

As to Christian Science being an "imitation," as the critic stated, let it be said that all who call themselves Christians should imitate the Master, who said, "Follow me." He commanded his followers to preach the gospel and heal the sick, and this is just what Christian Scientists are doing. As to "unity of Christians," the only unity which Christ Jesus recognized was his unity with God. He said, "I and my Father are one," and this is the "unity" which Christian Scientists are striving to "imitate."

The "apathy toward the church" which the gentleman deplores, does not seem to be affecting the Christian Science churches in the least, for they are exceedingly well attended, many to overflowing, and the reason is that Christian Science is a practical religion, offering a present salvation; it comforts the sorrowing, heals the sick, and teaches mankind how to understand God, "whom to know aright is Life eternal" (Science and Health, Pref., p. vii). The "church of the future" will undoubtedly be the one which proves its faith by its works, for "faith without works is dead."

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