Article August 19, 1916 Issue

I have read the communication of a correspondent that...

James D. Sherwood

The Dallas (Texas) Times Herald

I have read the communication of a correspondent that appeared in a recent issue of the Times Herald, and appreciate his complimentary remarks concerning the work of Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, and author of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," the text-book of Christian Science; but I am somewhat surprised to find that, after admitting that "this extraordinary doctrine of Christian Science purports to revive, explain, and practise the lost power of divine healing," the correspondent adds: "Christian Science church-members will probably understand it. No one that we know of pretends to understand it." His statement that no one pretends to understand Christian Science, is discredited by the fact that there is in the city of Dallas and in well-nigh every other city and town in the state a Christian Science church or society where testimonies of healing are publicly given every Wednesday evening. It is a recognized fact that the healing is an accompaniment of a demonstrable understanding of God, and that the healing accomplished in Christian Science practice is performed in strict accord with the teaching and practice of Christ Jesus and his disciples.

That Christian Science successfully explains and practises "the lost power of divine healing" is becoming very generally admitted today, and proof of the healing is shown in the expressions of gratitude that come from all parts of the world from persons who have been healed of all manner of diseases and sins through Christian Science practice. While many others are still seeking salvation by resorting to material means and traditional beliefs, the Christian Scientist is daily adding to his understanding of God, of the ideal man, and of the spiritual universe, and in consequence of this improved mental state he is enjoying an increased measure of the fruits of the Spirit.

It is obvious that one who believes that God is a person instead of the divine Principle, and that matter instead of Spirit is substance, does not comprehend divine metaphysics, where God is understood to be infinite divine Mind, and His creation is understood to be wholly spiritual. St. Paul wrote in his first epistle to the Corinthians, "The wisdom of this world is foolishness with God." Deductions that are made from a material basis are opposed to divine metaphysics. A Christian Scientist is not inclined to invite debate, or to indulge in argument over doctrines and creeds. He prefers to give as a reason for the hope that is within him, a manifestation of improved health and morals as the natural result of his growth in spiritual understanding.

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