Christian scientists accept Christ Jesus as their Way-shower and Exemplar. Individually they endeavor to demonstrate obedience to Paul's admonition (Phil. 2:5), "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus," for they recognize that such obedience will enable them to think, act, and heal as the master Christian did.
The climax of the Master's career was his resurrection, following the crucifixion, which led to his greatest demonstration— his ascension above the flesh. Whoever fails to take up his cross and to follow him, falls short of true and full discipleship. He himself said (Matt. 16:24), "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." Yet what Christian can honestly say that he has never been tempted to hold back a little and to regard this matter of taking up the cross with a certain amount of reluctance?
This reluctance, however, is based on a misconception; for the gentle Master mapped out no bitter way for his followers. Correctly understood, taking up the cross is the way of release and rejoicing, because it is the way, not of death, but of resurrection.
