Editorial October 20, 1945 Issue

True versus Simulated Power

Margaret Morrison

"What then are the so-called forces of matter?" This question is asked by Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, on page 35 of her book "Unity of Good." Can there be a more pertinent question in the face of the situation today, when the world of material sense is convulsed by the discovery, in its own realm, of a force seemingly incalculable in its power for good or evil? Mrs. Eddy answers the challenging question, "What then are the so-called forces of matter?" as follows: "They are the phenomena of mortal mind, and matter and mortal mind are one; and this one is a misstatement of Mind, God." She further writes on the same page, "The material atom is an outlined falsity of consciousness, which can gather additional evidence of consciousness and life only as it adds lie to lie."

Is it any wonder, then, that the elaborate systems of false concepts, the addition of lie to lie, the inflamed passions, hatreds, and cruelties of the carnal mind, should seem to manifest themselves in this simulated power? So fearful is it in its destructive force that men stand aghast at it, and, in fear, turn from their misdeeds to contemplate better morals and more humane laws. Fear of evil, however, is not a dependable basis, for either an individual or a nation, on which to build good conduct. When fear is removed there is lapse into old ways. This will seem to occur and to recur until a true knowledge of good is gained and the love of good supersedes the fear of evil. Unless one truly loves and trusts good, he cannot be depended upon steadfastly to serve good and work out its purposes. In order to love good, or God, supremely one must gain a true and scientifically demonstrable knowledge of God, His nature and power, His desirability.

Men have generally looked upon God as an unknown quantity, a capricious deity, sending good and evil upon His creation according to His will. Men are not yet freed from this mythology and the superstitious belief which sees God operating through what are called forces of nature. They give these forces Adamic names, and stand in awe before their own falsities of belief. Can an almighty God be divided against Himself? The power of God, who of creative necessity is good, is law and intelligence, is not found in the splitting of atoms, which produces earth-blasting, destructive detonations. As was revealed of old to the prophet Elijah, the Lord is not in the earthquake, the wind, or the fire.

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