Article April 27, 1981 Issue

A reasoned critique of Christian Science

MICHAEL D. RISSLER

Too often when one reads descriptions of Christian Science in the popular press, the only item that receives considerable attention is the speculation that it teaches the power of the human mind to change the physical body and, potentially, to control the whole of human life. What a mistake. And what a triumph for materialism and blind egotism if the spiritual and moral breakthroughs of Christian Science could simply be reduced to yet another mental method for gaining personal control over the world!

It is as if materialism and self-centeredness have gained such widespread acceptance that the only criterion left to evaluate anything is this single question: Will this new discovery guarantee the fulfillment of my personal ambition and desires? In this context, healing becomes synonymous with mere pleasure, ease, and lack of pain in matter and departs from its essential Christian meaning as an invigorating restoration that impels further moral and spiritual growth.

Consequently, it might surprise many people to hear Mary Baker Eddy's answer to the question, "Is healing the sick the whole of Science?" The Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science begins her reply with this arresting statement: "Healing physical sickness is the smallest part of Christian Science. It is only the bugle-call to thought and action, in the higher range of infinite goodness. The emphatic purpose of Christian Science is the healing of sin; and this task, sometimes, may be harder than the cure of disease; because, while mortals love to sin, they do not love to be sick."  Rudimental Divine Science, pp. 2-3.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Better seeing
April 27, 1981
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit