Editorial October 3, 1931 Issue

Searching the Scriptures

Clifford P. Smith

Because Christian Scientists read the Bible continually and studiously, it is normal that we should interpret its language as occasions occur. So, too, because Christian Science is a spiritual teaching and intended for human requirements, it is reasonable that we should look for spiritual meanings and apply them to the conditions and events of to-day. Indeed, the Bible depends largely upon interpretations for its practical value.

Since interpreting the Scriptures is so highly important, there is a corresponding need that genuine interpretation should be saved from every danger, including excess and perversion. All dictionaries agree that to interpret is to give the meaning of; elucidate; explain. The interpretation which is spiritual does not claim exemption from this description. All genuine interpretation must be consistent with its subject; and spiritual interpretation must be intelligent; it must be spiritually sensible.

Logically, the first demand of interpretation is consistency with its subject. For an instance of inconsistency, a few Christian Scientists have argued that John alluded to human birth as a death when he represented the Spirit as saying, "He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death." Presumably, this argument has been prompted by a laudable purpose; that is, by the wish to destroy or reduce the fear of future death. Nevertheless, such an interpretation is not sound for several reasons, one of which is that it lacks fidelity to the Revelator's repeated use of the phrase "the second death." (See Rev. 2:11; 20:6, 14; 21:8.)

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