UNFOLDMENT implies the spreading out of something enfolded within and may be illustrated by the unrolling of an ancient scroll which holds within itself the details of a complete and well-designed tale. The nature of the characters portrayed, the interplay of their moods, actions, and experiences, and the development of the plot resulting therefrom—all are included in the tale and unfold to one as he reads it.
Christian Science explains God's creative activity as one of eternal unfoldment. It reveals the real creation as the spiritual idea of Mind, embraced in Deity and unfolding forever in such beauty and perfection of design as only Love could conceive. Divine Mind manifests its infinitude only through its ideas. The attributes of divinity, its exhaustless harmony, intelligence, wisdom, and holiness, are unfolded through the expanding goodness of its spiritual universe. The Psalmist envisioned the established perfection of God's work, as well as its continuity as Mind's reflection, for he said (119: 89-91):"For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven. . . . Thou hast established the earth, and it abideth. They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants."
Mary Baker Eddy presents the truths of creation in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," truths which have profound meaning for mankind, for they are destined not only to destroy the sufferings and sins of men, but to awaken humanity from the entire dream of mortality. Here she says (pp. 502, 503):"There is but one creator and one creation. This creation consists of the unfolding of spiritual ideas and their identities, which are embraced in the infinite Mind and forever reflected. These ideas range from the infinitesimal to infinity, and the highest ideas are the sons and daughters of God."
