Article June 10, 1916 Issue

In the report of a sermon by an evangelist is found a reference...

Avery Coonley

Elgin (Ill.) Courier

In the report of a sermon by an evangelist is found a reference to Christian Science which misrepresents its teachings regarding the nature of sin, and by implication imputes to it a method of dealing with sin which is entirely foreign to it. In classing Christian Science with ethical culture, new thought, and the like, the evangelist shows his misunderstanding of this religion and its mission. Such systems of mental healing depend on the action of the human mind or will. Christian Science is based on the understanding of God and the operation of His unchanging law, which reforms the sinner and heals the sick today as in the time of Jesus.

The teaching of Christian Science on the subject of sin is definite and unmistakable, and its success in healing the most inveterate forms of sin during the period of nearly fifty years since it was established by Mrs. Eddy, constitutes sufficient proof of the value and practicality of this method of dealing with sin and evil. While Christian Science declares the unreality of evil as any part of God's creation, it nevertheless teaches that on the human plane sin brings inevitable suffering, and that its pardon can only be gained through its destruction. In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" Mrs. Eddy says (p. 201), "Grafting holiness upon unholiness, supposing that sin can be forgiven when it is not forsaken, is as foolish as straining out gnats and swallowing camels." Again on page 6 she says: "We cannot escape the penalty due for sin. The Scriptures say, that if we deny Christ, 'he also will deny us.' Divine Love corrects and governs man. Men may pardon, but this divine Principle alone reforms the sinner."

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Editorial
"Fear hath torment"
June 10, 1916
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit