THE inspired definition of "Church" found on page 583 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy also tells us, by inference, of the nature and authority of the true church member. From this definition we learn that the structure of Church is in God, in Truth and Love, and that it is based upon divine Principle. This everlasting Church teems, then, with action, vision, dominion, and there is no possible entrance into it for dormancy, sin, poverty, sickness, or adulterated thinking. This Church offers to humanity refuge from all sin, all torment, disease, backsliding, failure.
It is helpful for the Christian Scientist to realize that, taking membership in its highest sense, the true church member represents this Church in action, and that church member is therefore inseparable from Church. In this light every member is open to receive the fullness of spiritual inspiration, and to express in highest measure the healing power of infinite Mind.
Obviously separate from Church are the not yet obliterated errors of mortal mind; and these errors should never be included in one's scientific estimate of the church member, since what is no part of Church is actually no part of the real member. The harmonious relationship of church members is established in their reflection of Truth and Love, and as this basic unity is realized it will be demonstrated in loyal cooperation. Self will be subordinated to the common good. Even as, in scaling the heights, mountaineers roped together for safety are quick to steady a comrade who has momentarily lost his foothold, so should members of the Christian Science church, scaling together spiritual heights above the clouds of sense, be firm in their support of comrades who have faltered in their ascent, or whose vision of Church has momentarily grown dim. In such a situation, alert members rally to their support by keeping their own vision loyal to God and man.
