Article December 12, 1936 Issue

"Guarding the door"

ISRAEL PICKENS

In the sixth chapter of John's Gospel are two verses that carry much more of vital meaning than might appear from a mere casual reading. In these two verses Jesus affirmed the truth concerning his divine commission and protection, and denied error. He stated these truths as follows: "All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out .... No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him."

It is a well-known fact that the Master, Christ Jesus, knew how to protect himself at all times and under all circumstances. His work was eminently successful. He protected himself not only from the unreceptive thought, but also from the malice of his so-called enemies. For instance, when he opened his ministry at Nazareth and read from the Scriptures that the Messiah was to come, and that he himself was that one, "all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth." But when he rebuked their unbelief they sought to kill him. However, he vanished from their midst and thus saved himself and his career from annihilation at the outset.

On page 392 of her textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mrs. Eddy has written a most instructive paragraph on how to protect oneself. This paragraph has the marginal heading "Guarding the door," and she admonishes the student of Christian Science to "stand porter at the door of thought." Much could be said or written on this subject, but for the purpose of brevity let us consider here two or three points of outstanding importance. Effectually to "stand porter at the door of thought" one must needs be cognizant of what constitutes true thought. He must know that God is Mind, and that man is the reflection of Mind. Hence, all true thought emanates from Mind, and is expressed by man, who reflects Mind. It is needful to know that the thoughts of God are good only, and that evil beliefs are no part of one's true consciousness.

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