Editorial June 6, 1925 Issue

Victorious Faith

Albert F. Gilmore

In his first epistle, John makes clear that man's spiritual status depends upon his acceptance of certain facts fundamental to Christianity. "Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God," he declared; and later he added, "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." Here the beloved disciple puts the victory over material belief squarely upon the basis of faith; that is to say, according to our faith is our ability to overcome erroneous thinking. A modern translator of this passage renders it in this direct form: "Our faith, that is the conqueror which conquers the world."

Christian Scientists have good reason for gratitude that Mrs. Eddy has defined words and terms in such manner as to make perfectly clear the meaning of certain Scriptural passages which would otherwise be in doubt. This is true of the passage in question; for, manifestly, faith in the ordinary sense of the word would scarcely conquer all the adverse claims which would impede spiritual progress. Something more than mere faith did the apostle have in mind when he wrote this pregnant passage. Just what this something is Mrs. Eddy states on page 23 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." Discussing doctrines and faith, she says, "Faith, if it be mere belief, is as a pendulum swinging between nothing and something, having no fixity." And she adds significantly, "Faith, advanced to spiritual understanding, is the evidence gained from Spirit, which rebukes sin of every kind and establishes the claims of God." Here is defined for us the quality of faith which overcomes the belief of evil and renders us victorious.

"Faith, advanced to spiritual understanding," has for its basis knowledge of God,—knowledge, definite and certain through the experience of demonstration, a process which puts knowledge entirely outside the category of doubt. Here is our course marked out for us and set with the beacon lights of actual experience, which enabled our great Leader to speak with authority. That she had attained to victorious faith was fully demonstrated.

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
"The Scientist's demonstration rests on one Principle"
June 6, 1925
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit