Article August 15, 1970 Issue

The Letter and Spirit of Christian Science

ERIC W. CARR

In reply to the question "How can I progress most rapidly in the understanding of Christian Science?" Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, writes in Science and Health with key to the Scriptures, "Study thoroughly the letter and imbibe the spirit." And she follows with these words: "Adhere to the divine Principle of Christian Science and follow the behests of God, abiding steadfastly in wisdom, Truth, and Love."^{ Science and Health, p. 495;}

In studying the letter of Christian Science, it is important for us to recognize God as divine Principle, Spirit, and Love. And since God is also Mind, man, the real man made in God's image and likeness, is mental and spiritual rather than mortal and material. The universe of God, filled with Mind's ideas, is found to be spiritual also.

This statement of the true nature of God, man, and the universe constitutes the basis of the letter of Christian Science, and is of the utmost importance, for with its help we are sometimes in a position to sum up a situation quickly and to know how to act. Necessary and helpful as is the letter, something more is needed to put the knowledge of God into practice and demonstrate the power of Truth in overcoming such conditions as sickness and sin. That something further is the spirit of Christ.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

Are We Ready to Entertain Angels?