IN THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE BIBLE LESSON June 22, 2009 Issue

THE COMFORTER IS HERE

BENJAMIN GLADDEN

To read this column online, go to the spirituality.com homepage.

WHAT IS the Comforter? And has it come? This week's Bible Lesson, titled "Christian Science," explains how "Christian Science and Christianity are one" (Science and Health, p. 372, cit. 5), and how together they are the fulfillment of Jesus' promise before he was crucified, "I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever" (John 14:16).

The Greek word translated "Comforter" in most Bible translations is paracletos, and describes an advocate, or someone who is called to your side to help you. The Amplified Bible gives a thorough translation of John 14:26 (citation 5) that sheds a great deal of light on the word "Comforter": "But the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will cause you to recall (will remind you of, bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you."