Article August 20, 1955 Issue

"FAITH COMETH BY HEARING"

ALICE CORTRIGHT

The Apostle Paul speaks of those who "have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge" (Rom. 10:2), and he pertinently asks, "How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?" He adds, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."

The Wednesday testimony meeting in Churches of Christ, Scientist, make plain the practical aspects of Christian Science. Those who have felt the healing power of God's love as taught by this effective religion have the opportunity to share such experiences at these meetings. The inquirer who is there to hear "by the word of God"—to have proof that God's Word is present and ready to help in every need—is thereby enlightened.

The sincere statements of release from sin, sickness, worry, sorrow, lack, bad habits, and confusion give assurance to the honestly inquiring thought. Gratitude for such healings and joy in sharing them bring to their feet spontaneously those who may have had no experience in public speaking, for "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh" (Matt. 12:34). Yet there are those who really desire to give a testimony, but who stop to listen to the arguments which self–consciousness presents: that one has a personal selfhood which may be subject to criticism, that his demonstration is not very important compared to others, that there are plenty of others with more interesting experiences, and so on.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Poem

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD