Editorial November 7, 1925 Issue

Spirit as Witness

Albert F. Gilmore

In the incomparable eighth chapter of Romans, Paul distinguishes between the flesh and Spirit with much the same emphasis which characterized the replies of Christ Jesus to Nicodemus. Having established the fact of the complete unlikeness of Spirit and matter, the flesh, Paul goes on to declare, "The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God;" and he proceeds to reveal the glory arising from this divine relationship, asserting that it means nothing less than that we are "heirs of God," and as such "joint-heirs with Christ." Could more satisfying information be forthcoming than that we are the sons of God and heirs with Christ of His infinite blessings and munificence?

Surely, few have ever grasped in its fullness the meaning of this promise. Christian Scientists, under the inspired leadership of Mary Baker Eddy, are coming in some degree to understand its meaning. Through revealed truth they are catching clearer glimpses of man's true nature and relationship with God. These clearer views are recurrent and lasting in proportion to our consecration, so that the rapidity of our progress lies with us.

Mortals, it seems, dwell constantly between two opposing claims—the seeming demands of the flesh and the positive commands of the Spirit to come out from mortal belief on to the heights of glory which belong to each of God's children, as "joint-heirs with Christ" of the Father's unchanging love. The flesh, mortal mind, presents many arguments: There is no hurry; tarry a little longer in the gratification of the senses; be merry, for to-morrow we die; as death ends all, why abstain from the pleasure which promise so much? These and many other similar arguments constantly challenge mortals in their journeyings. The thoughtful, looking beyond mere satisfaction of the moment, know that these are but the allurements of a siren, as unsubstantial as the pleasures promised. Their fleeting and ephemeral nature cannot be concealed. The wise, convinced that in that direction lies nothing good and substantial, turn a deaf ear to them. Turning to Spirit, to God and His infinite goodness, one is taking the first step toward the goal of perfect peace, where joy constantly reigns and righteousness has its just reward. Thus it is that the Spirit bears witness of man's divine sonship through the blessings which, as we lovingly trust Him, are brought into our lives.

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