TO one of an orderly, law-abiding nature definite rules of procedure from an accepted, authoritative source are restful and comforting. Students of music and of mathematics do not find definite rules to be restrictive or irksome in the work which they have chosen. The application of these excludes mistakes which would cling like parasites to our effort to demonstrate the fundamentals. Neither the musician nor the mathematician accepts these rules on faith and with folded hands. To earn the right to be called an exponent of his chosen calling, each must work out problem after problem by means of the rules set forth, by which the underlying law is demonstrated.
Certain rules are basic and must be considered first, in order that their derivatives may follow in proper order. So it is with the Science of Christ Jesus' teachings—Christian Science—as discovered and set forth by its revelator, Mary Baker Eddy, in her textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," and in her other writings. This Science is proved by definite rules, which must be applied with exactitude if one would become its beneficiary and also help others to gain their freedom from the imprisoning beliefs of mortal existence. These rules are irksome and hampering to the carnal mind because, when applied, they rule it out of its pretentious selfhood. To the spiritually awakened thinker they are as peace-giving and reassuring as are the laws of harmony to the musician.
Sometimes in referring to these rules Mrs. Eddy uses the words "indispensable," "sacred," "fundamental," and "higher." In her message "Christian Science versus Pantheism" (p. 9) she calls attention to "the four first rules" by means of which true religion may and indeed must be demonstrated. It is interesting to note that she says "the four first rules," as if laying emphasis on the four, showing that each one is basic, fundamental, and indispensable. They are given under the heading "Scientific Christianity Means One God," and in elucidating her theme she refers to demonstrating "one God and the four first rules pertaining thereto, namely, 'Thou shalt have no other gods before me;' 'Love thy neighbor as thyself;' 'Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect;' 'Whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.' " The first in order of these indispensable rules emphasizes the objective of all religious work—study, prayer, and meditation, which help to demonstrate the one and only God.
