In a recent issue The Christian Work and Evangelist very pertinently asks, "Have we ever thought of what it means to be a Christian, fully to accept Jesus Christ, take him at his word, believe the New Testament?" This may seem to be a peculiar question to ask of Christian people, but the fact that it has been asked is at least indicative of a wellsettled doubt as to whether professing Christians of the present day are fully accepting Jesus Christ, are really taking him at his word, and entirely believing the New Testament. This in itself is a serious arraignment of the Christian churches, and it is one that merits and requires a serious and definite answer.
Webster's definition of a Christian is, "One who believes, or professes or assumes to believe, in Jesus Christ, and the truth as taught by him"; an adherent of Christianity; especially, one whose inward and outward life is conformed to the doctrines of Christ." In simplicity and clearness of statement this definition leaves nothing to be desired, and the question which our contemporary asks, in his effort to ascertain whether Christians of today actually measure up to the standard of Christianity, is strictly in line with it.
We can, of course, answer only for Christian Scientists, and on the basis of Mrs. Eddy's declaration that "Christianity is Christlike only as it reiterates the word, repeats the works, and manifests the spirit of Christ" (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 25). In other words, not only do Christian Scientists take Christ Jesus at his word, but they try to emulate his works. They remember that a great portion of the New Testament is given over to a record of the "mighty works" which our Master did upon the mountains, upon the seas, and within the valleys and the cities of his native land; that he not only healed the sick, but he also taught his immediate followers to do these works. Furthermore, in order that those of "every tribe and nation," of every age and to the uttermost bounds of the earth, might have the opportunity to share in this privilege,—become a Christian,—he made the specific promise: "He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also."
