Editorial July 12, 1941 Issue

The Standard in Christian Science

George Shaw Cook

Loyal Christian Scientists regard Mary Baker Eddy as the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science. They also understand that the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy, contains the final and complete revelation of Truth in this age. Naturally, therefore, they accept Science and Health, in conjunction with the Bible, as the one and only standard for Christian Science teaching and practice. Furthermore, in the Manual of The Mother Church (Art. IV, Sect. 1), referring to the applicant for membership, the By-Law continues as follows: "The Bible, together with Science and Health and other works by Mrs. Eddy, shall be his only textbooks for self-instruction in Christian Science, and for teaching practising metaphysical healing."

In the light of the foregoing it is obvious that any member of The Mother Church who believes that he has progressed beyond Mrs. Eddy in the understanding of Christian Science, or that his statement of its teachings is an improvement on her statement of it, is surely mistaken. He is treading on dangerous ground and is following a path which can only lead to eventual discredit. An awakening to this fact and willingness to retrace his steps in humility and obedience will be necessary to re-establish him upon the firm ground of loyalty and of usefulness to the Cause of Christian Science.

It is true that much has been written and said by lecturers, teachers, and others that has proved helpful to students of Christian Science, but to believe that this could in any way serve as a satisfactory substitute for the teachings of the Bible and the Christian Science textbook would be a great mistake. It would also be an error to believe that books and pamphlets on the subject are required to make plain the statements contained in our Leader's works. Consecrated and persistent study of these works reveals their true meaning and gives the student a firm foundation upon which to base his practice.

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