THE word "science" means systematized knowledge of any subject. There is, for example, the science of chemistry, of physics, of astronomy, of botany, of zoology— natural sciences they are called. And never before has such interest been taken in these studies as is being shown by the general public to-day. This is largely because of the fact that the discoveries of more recent years, chiefly in chemistry and physics, have been of great value to mankind in that they have brought additional comforts into the homes of the people and aided tremendously the business enterprises of men. Everybody knows how electricity has been harnessed to light our buildings and to act as motive power, and how its use in the telegraph and telephone has served to bring the ends of the earth together.
Because of having been brought into intimate touch with the practical side of more recent discoveries, many have been induced to follow the natural scientist into the realm of theory. The result is that to-day the latest hypotheses of physicist, chemist, and astronomer are discussed in more or less accurate terms by not a few who are not themselves natural scientists, in a manner which would have been impossible half a century ago. And consequent upon this interest men are observing, among other things, the decided change that has taken place among natural scientists themselves on the nature of so-called matter, noticing that the latter are now regarding matter as fundamentally electrical in its constitution; as electric energy, indeed, acting under so-called physical law.
No doubt the situation in the world of natural science to-day is deeply interesting. How could it be otherwise, since it is now conceded by the natural scientist that matter is not at all what the material senses superficially report it to be, but something entirely different? The situation is interesting to the Christian Scientist, and especially so in that his study of it is convincing him, more than ever, of the speculative nature of all human hypotheses relative to matter. He sees these hypotheses constantly changing, yet never reaching finality. He knows that they never will reach finality, however subtle to human sense they may become. He is certain of this because through Christian Science he understands that since Spirit is infinite matter is unreal.
But the Christian Scientist should be on guard, watchful lest he allow himself to be carried away by the speculations of modern science, so called, and made to forget the teachings of Christian Science, which alone reveal the truths of real being. Mrs. Eddy writes on page 128 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," "Science relates to Mind, not matter." It relates solely to Mind; for since Mind is infinite, there is no matter. Speaking absolutely, there can be no science of matter, no science of any material substance, be it called plant, animal, or mineral, since matter is unreal.
We should be clear about what has just been said. The arguments of the human so-called mind are sometimes very enticing, appealing strongly to the imagination; and there is often a fascination in allowing thought to dwell on the minute things of the microscope or the immensities of the telescope, but Mind and its manifestation alone are real. "God is Mind, and God is infinite; hence all is Mind," (ibid., p. 492); and continuing she says, "On this statement rests the Science of being, and the Principle of this Science is divine, demonstrating harmony and immortality."
Mrs. Eddy's words just quoted emphasize the nature and practicality of divine Science. Christian Scientists do not decry the efforts of the natural scientists, but see in these efforts the endeavor of earnest men, actuated by a sincere desire to know what lies within the apparent scope of the physical senses, to benefit their fellow men. Christian Scientists are persuaded, however, that only through divine Science can reality be known, harmony become universal, and the indestructibility of life be demonstrated. Consequently, what concerns them principally is the Science of being. What they are most desirous of knowing is the nature of God, the divine Principle of this Science; the nature of His spiritual creation, including man; and the nature of the laws which govern and sustain this creation, because this knowledge alone will enable them to overcome materiality and its seeming effects—sin, disease, suffering, sorrow—and likewise the belief of death as real.
Under the marginal heading "Practical Science," on page 128 of Science and Health Mrs. Eddy writes, "The term Science, properly understood, refers only to the laws of God and to His government of the universe, inclusive of man." And farther on in the paragraph occur the words: "The human mind, imbued with this spiritual understanding, becomes more elastic, is capable of greater endurance, escapes somewhat from itself, and requires less repose. A knowledge of the Science of being develops the latent abilities and possibilities of man." Thought enlightened by spiritual understanding produces these desirable results. Who will venture to say that thought acquainted only with material hypotheses will do the same?
We should endeavor to be spiritually active, constantly allowing our thought to dwell on spiritual truth, constantly turning to divine Science for enlightenment on reality and on the laws governing reality, constantly seeking to obey these spiritual laws in order to become healthier and happier and better men and women, and more able to help others in the overcoming of ill health and discord in their lives.
Paul's words to be found in the sixth chapter of his first epistle to Timothy are apt: "O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called: which some professing have erred concerning the faith." Christian Scientists are in the position of Timothy. They therefore need to have regard to Paul's words and hold fast to "the faith," even the faith established by Christ Jesus and scientifically interpreted by Christian Science. Nothing in the nature of material theory or hypothesis should ever be allowed to usurp the place of the absolute truth revealed by this Science, for upon our steadfastness to it depends our spiritual growth— our growth in grace, in character, and in divine power.
It is worthy of note that after Paul had written to Timothy as above he used the gracious words, "Grace be with thee."
