Editorial April 2, 1921 Issue

Both the Tree and Its Fruits

Gustavus S. Paine

The great advantage of Christian Science to mankind is that it is demonstrable. This does not mean, of course, that a human appearance of improved conditions is a guarantee that right methods have been used to bring it about. In Christian Science it is possible to prove the correctness of both practice and Principle by logical and undeniable reasoning. It is also possible to demonstrate by actual works the exactness of the operation of Principle. For permanent right results, Principle and practice, cause and effect, must be understood as spiritual and scientific. As Christ Jesus said repeatedly, "The tree is known by his fruit." A careful consideration of this statement leaves no room for the belief that the mere physical senses can testify truly as to fruitage. The evidence that Principle is the sole governing power must be spiritually discerned. Spiritual understanding must bear witness to the actuality of spiritual cause.

Real health is spiritual wholeness. As this true idea of health is understood, the human belief in any limitation or lack of wholeness disappears. This is the healing process. It is not the patching of a physical body, but the lessening of the belief in physicality through the demonstration of spirituality. One may be healed through Christian Science without recognizing much of what this real process is. Continued study with unfolding understanding is necessary, however, for the proving of undisturbed freedom always. In order to be forever free one must be alert to know how divine Principle manifests itself as right action. Eternal health can be proved only through the understanding of infinite Mind and its spiritual idea. This is the understanding that Christian Science is giving to the world.

On page 169 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, we read: "Science not only reveals the origin of all disease as mental, but it also declares that all disease is cured by divine Mind. There can be no healing except by this Mind, however much we trust a drug or any other means towards which human faith or endeavor is directed. It is mortal mind, not matter, which brings to the sick whatever good they may seem to receive from materiality. But the sick are never really healed except by means of the divine power. Only the action of Truth, Life, and Love can give harmony." From the beginning of one's interest, one can discern that Christian Science is the expression of Truth. With the utmost care Mrs. Eddy has stated and explained Christian Science and by establishing and arranging for the Christian Science periodicals she has provided one of the ways in which the expression of Truth may reach the world.

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