Article February 1, 2014

Thoughts in Christian Science

Selected from writings in C. S. Journal.

Originally published in the October 1, 1889 issue of the Christian Science Series (Vol. 1, No. 11)

The teaching of Christian Science makes unity of thought with us, as a people, unqualifiedly essential, if we desire success in overcoming even the uneducated forces of mortal mind. There should be the bond of union and sympathy between us that comes from the spiritual sense of our oneness in Christ—a practical Christianity, wherein the Spirit should supersede the letter, and technicalities should give place to the demonstrable.

A veneering of Christianity does not make a man a Christian. Nay, if he is not honest in his profession, it makes him a greater villain. Our motives need looking after, not by each for others, but by each for himself; and we must be positive that the objective point is Truth. If our own motives are pure, then we shall be better able to discuss the worthiness of others, as is sometimes necessary; but we can not sit in cool judgment upon any, and should extend helpful thoughts to all.

We should have charity,—not the charity that covers sin, but that which gives the brother or sister a chance to work out his or her salvation. If we remember the command of our Master, “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone,” we should have, perhaps, a greater disgust for error, beginning with that in our own thought, and so become more deserving of the appellation, Christian Scientist. The demand upon us as individuals, to meet every emergency with courage and patience, was never greater than now. The difficulties that beset us seem many; but if we are faithful, we have much to hope for in the result. At times, apparent obstacles block the way, and the dark sea of tribulation seems ready to engulf us. Trust and faith in infinite Love must sustain us, until we realize in some small degree that we can not be swamped in the dark morass of doubt and fear, which tempts us to swerve from our allegiance to Divine Principle.

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