Article August 14, 1978 Issue

The purity impulse

ROBERT COE GILBERT

Historically, society has tried to control unbridled pleasure-seeking by invoking the other primary impelling force of material thinking—fear of pain. Trends of religious thought have aroused terrifying pictures of future suffering to curb what was thought to be man's normal inclination. Christian Science brings to humanity the liberating truth that man is not a material being, motivated by material forces, but a spiritual idea, motivated and governed by God alone.

In subtle ways the belief that man is impelled by material forces would claim to influence the Christian Scientist practicing his religion. It would have him occupied with praying for material things or results and suggest that he be less active spiritually if there is no pain to motivate him.

At the end of high school and during my first two years of college I liked Christian Science and relied on it when its practice fitted in with my plans. Science showed me how to keep myself healthy—and being healthy fitted into my plans. I liked the way I could work out employment and supply problems—and having enough things and money definitely fitted into my plans. Also it was great to have this uplifting influence draw out of me, and develop, capacities I never knew I had. In other words, being healthy, wealthy, and talented fitted into my plans nicely.

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