Editorial December 26, 1925 Issue

"One standard statement" of Christian Science

Albert F. Gilmore

In characterizing her discovery, Christian Science and its application, Mrs. Eddy writes in "No and Yes" (p. 10), "The life of Christ is the predicate and postulate of all that I teach, and there is but one standard statement, one rule, and one Principle for all scientific truth." In this brief, but extraordinarily meaningful sentence, our Leader has established the foundation of her discovery in the teachings of the Master, and excluded any other "standard statement" than her own as the true interpretation of those teachings. Christian Scientists, accordingly, always turn to the Bible and Mrs. Eddy's writings for accurate statements of divine Science. The revelation is complete; and the application of Christian Science to the solution of human problems is the work of each faithful disciple.

Notwithstanding that the authoritative statements of our Leader are always at hand, the temptation not infrequently besets the student of Christian Science, especially the beginer, to turn to some other source, to read something which it is claimed may be more easily understood. Yielding to this tempter, one may become the victim of evil suggestion, and wander in a maze of bypaths from which there is no escape except over the road that has been abandoned. Not for nothing did Christ Jesus declare, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." In the light of these words, how can one logically expect to gain the blessings which accrue from discipleship with the Christ, while leaving the very path which Jesus marked out, even though he declared that way to be narrow and the gate strait?

The so-called mortal mind is ever rebellious against Spirit. Paul was fully aware of this when he wrote, "The carnal mind is enmity against God." Why should we marvel, then, that this counterfeit mind resists the oncoming tide of spiritual enlightenment in which it recognizes its destroyer? In the effort to escape destruction, carnal belief seeks many and devious ways whereby to prolong its false sense of existence. To human consciousness, its ways are cunning and its methods ingenious. It constantly argues for a compromise, holding that strict adherence to spiritual truth is not necessary; it assumes to bridge the chasm between Spirit and matter, proffering safe transit; it presents alluring pictures of the pleasures to be experienced when accepting its dictum; it offers an easier way—and all in the effort to prolong its belief of existence.

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