The word religion, as used in its usually accepted sense, embraces "any system of faith and worship." whether pagan, Hindu, Mohammedan, or Christian; and as the last, through theological difficulties anent the numerous creeds and dogmas, has developed many distinct systems within itself, it has become the custom for Christians to designate their religion by the name of the particular sect or denomination with which they are affiliated or which by its appearance appeals to their sense of comfort and activity. Christian Science is not merely a system of faith and worship, but is as the term implies, the Science of Christianity whereby faith becomes understanding and Truth is demonstrated for all mankind.
The apostle James says, "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." This is a very definite indication that pure or real religion is individual in demonstration; that is to say it is the individual who is to '"visit the fatherless and widows'' and "keep himself unspotted from the world." Surely this is what Mrs. Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, so clearly states on page 571 of her book, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." when referring to the Revelator in the words, "He enthrones pure and undefiled religion, and lifts on high only those who have washed their robes white in obedience and suffering;" and in that sense Christian Science is religion.
On one occasion when Jesus was teaching in the temple, he said to the many of his hearers who had begun to comprehend in some degree his teachings, "If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Here we have the Master's evident injunction to the individual to continue with the search for and study of the things "my Father hath taught me," and the implication that all men are capable of knowing that freedom from poverty, ignorance, grief, and affliction which he so compassionately taught and demonstrated.
