A statement in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, reads, “The Christlike understanding of scientific being and divine healing includes a perfect Principle and idea,—perfect God and perfect man,—as the basis of thought and demonstration” (p. 259). Can anyone gain this Christlike understanding that heals, or was it specific to Jesus? To answer this question correctly depends, first, on what Christ means.

For many, especially Christians, the word Christ rightly makes us think about Jesus of Galilee, born of a virgin, acknowledged throughout Christendom to be the Savior of the world. The Bible refers to Jesus Christ, or Christ Jesus, as “the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:18). He proved by his exemplary life and ministry what God does for humanity.

Christian Science teaches that Christ was Jesus’ divine nature. It is the practical Truth that reveals our true relationship to God. Our own Christly nature enables us to emulate Jesus—to understand and practically express health, holiness, and harmony.