Through the study of Christian Science the thoughts of men are directed into new spiritual channels. The conscientious student finds that a study of this Science clarifies his thinking, increasing harmony thereby in his surroundings. Christian Science, revealing the understanding of the divine Mind, the only cause of all that exists, brings about a change in the concepts entertained by mankind regarding existence; and even to a beginner, the concepts of Truth, Life, and Love appear in an entirely new light. The same change takes place in a Christian Scientist's understanding of the term "authority."
The appellation "authorities" is used in the various departments of human learning to designate persons who have acquired much knowledge and extensive experience in a particular field. And they possess authority over the opinions and decisions of people who recognize their qualifications. The neophyte in Christian Science, not knowing as yet that true wisdom and power are in God, divine Mind, and that, therefore, they are not personal qualities, is apt instead to look about for personal supports. In the measure that he grasps the nature of divine Science, however, he becomes more and more convinced that real progress can be made only through an understanding of true being and the application of this knowledge in his daily life. Thus, Christian Science stands far above all human learning based upon so-called mortal intelligence.
On page 4 of "Rudimental Divine Science" Mrs. Eddy writes: "Science is Mind manifested. It is not material; neither is it of human origin." Authority in the above-mentioned human sense, therefore, finds no place in divine Science. Who or what, then, is authority in this Science? Mortal or material sense cannot enlighten us regarding this question, for it both deceives and is deceived. Divine Science alone must be the rightful interpreter, for it is the law of Truth. Christian Science teaches that God is divine Mind, divine Principle. This divine Principle is All-in-all. To the Christian Scientist, therefore, Principle is the only authority; and Principle interprets itself, leading to an understanding of the truth which makes free,—free from sin, disease, and, ultimately, the belief of death.
