In the Christian Science text-book, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mrs. Eddy, the author, makes the statement that "The central fact of the Bible is the superiority of spiritual over physical power" (p. 131).
This fact is attested by the many Scriptural accounts wherein prophets and apostles, rulers and exiles, have been delivered from affliction and bondage, and it is emphasized again and again in the spiritual victories over sin and disease, which mark New Testament history. The battles fought by the children of Israel, which, as a type, illustrate the power of righteousness to subdue aggressive evil, were not won by means of strength, nor skill, nor numbers. The records say, "The battle is not yours, but God's;" "The Lord saveth not with sword and spear;" "The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me," and "Not by might nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts."
The Christian knows that his faith in God delivers him in many crises in which human ways and means are found powerless. He has also learned that a touch of divine compassion will often loose the chains of a stubborn sin, and lift the burden of a heavy sorrow. To this knowledge of the power of divine Love, the Christian Scientist is adding the understanding that every phase of disease as well, can yield to the intelligent application of earnest, enlightened prayer. In the battle against the habits of thought which lead to the conditions called disease, the student of Christian Science learns, by means of one and another timely lesson, that he must depend without compromise upon the power of Spirit if he is to expect any measure of victory over the flesh. A divided household cannot stand, nor can the service of two masters consistently or profitably be maintained.
