Article February 27, 1926 Issue

Devotion and Consecration

HERBERT W. BECK

Christian Scientists may turn with profit to the history of the early Christian Church. During that period there were persecutions even unto death, which called forth the greatest devotion and consecration to the Christ. Material wealth was parted with gladly; and the so-called good things of material living were considered a snare. The aim, apparently, of these early Christian was to gain the wealth of spirituality. From the accounts we read of them, we may assume that this must have been true of most of them.

Constantine, emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire, issued two edicts of toleration for the Christians. It is open to question, however, if he really favored the Cause of Christianity when he gave it the protection of the state. Undoubtedly, the protection of the emperor was considered a wonderful boon at the time to the followers of the Master, for they were allowed to live in peace and to worship God without fear. But the danger lay in that very physical peace and in the wealth which quickly came to the church. As wealth accumulated, the grasp on spirituality was loosened until the church became merely a form of worship, and the power to heal the sick and raise the dead was lost.

As the progress of the Cause of Christian Science rests upon the spirituality of its adherents and their demonstration of divine Principle, we may turn to these historical facts for a lesson, and not allow history to repeat itself. Mrs. Eddy warns us of the danger of earthly riches and popularity, for mortal mind does love to be popular with its own suppositional world.

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit

Devotion and Consecration

We'd love to hear from you!

Sign up for unlimited access