Editorial July 29, 1933 Issue

Spiritual Growth

Violet Ker Seymer

According to the teachings of Christian Science, the law of progress is entirely spiritual. Therefore, the alert Christian Scientist realizes that he must look primarily to his mental and spiritual progress, and regard as secondary the outward signs of improved thinking, evidenced in growth of business, possessions, and positions. Spiritual growth is achieved by the Christian Scientist in highest measure only as it becomes his unrivaled aim and motive. Perfection, reflected Godlikeness, is his goal.

Specious arguments attempt to deceive even those who are putting their desire for spiritual growth above all else. Hence, it may be a protection to some to note conscientiously the way in which their average day is spent; and, if necessary, systematically set aside a suitable proportion of time for daily, prayerful study of Christian Science literature. Through a deepening grasp of the Science of spiritual being one is spiritually inspired and fortified, and cannot be easily swayed by the plausible arguments of material sense, which bid one loiter in the valley of sense-indulgence. The individual's growth in Godlikeness has a bearing on the growth of the whole Christian Science movement, and the collective growth of Christian Scientists of all nations is the harbinger of universal salvation. Therefore, every Christian Scientist is responsible not only for his own continuous growth, but for the value to the world of a consecrated life.

Paul made an appeal to the Ephesians that "we hence-forth be no more children, ... but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ." Christian Scientists must consistently heed the call to spiritual perfection and advance towards it through their ever widening spiritual vision and fidelity. The human doctrine of fallen man is the reverse of the truth, and must be abandoned. Scientific spiritual progress is achieved only as one starts and stays with the scientific premise of perfect God and perfect man. This premise puts to silence erroneous doctrines springing from a distorted view of God and His creation. Since there is no imperfect God, there is no imperfect man in His likeness.

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