In exploring the earliest periods of recorded history one discovers that the acquisition of useful knowledge has been greatly furthered by wise teachers who have guided and directed thought. The Bible, especially the Old Testament, abounds in accounts of such teaching carried on as an important and recognized feature of the work of the priests and prophets of those distant times. Samuel, Elijah, Isaiah, and Jeremiah, among numerous other Biblical characters, were looked up to as teachers and leaders, as well as preachers and prophets, and the influence that they exerted over the rulers and people of their particular era was deeply important.
Christ Jesus often taught by parables, by such homely illustrations as the people of his day could readily understand. So direct and effective was his Christly teaching, so timeless, always dealing with eternal truths, that Jesus is frequently referred to as the great Teacher.
It is heartening to realize that in her marvelous wisdom Mary Baker Eddy has provided, through authorized class instruction, the orderly and obedient way to satisfy the sincere yearning of Christian Scientists for increased understanding of the Science they acknowledge. Like the disciples of old, many Christian Science teachers have consecrated their lives to the sacred duty of preparing others to carry on the holy work of true spiritual healing. Following the admonition of the Master, Christ Jesus, they stand ready to "preach the gospel" and so to expound the Scriptures in the light of Christian Science that the Word of God, with all its healing challenge and comfort, may be intelligently utilized in every walk of life and in every hour of need.
