EVEN though many persons do not understand the teachings of Christian Science, they have a sincere respect for Christian Scientists. This is because the genuine Christian Scientist is a law-abiding citizen, a loving neighbor, and a patient person who will do his utmost to promote harmony and good will in the community, in business, and in the world.
Some who are carnally minded, falsely believing that the Scientist will offer no resistance, may be inclined to test his patience and loving-kindness. The carnal mind is unaware that moral courage, derived from Spirit and a deep love of Truth, enables the Christian Scientist to rebuke such error. And it is right for error to be rebuked.
In a book entitled "Twelve Years with Mary Baker Eddy" by Irving C. Tomlinson there are some illuminating passages on our Leader's thoughts as to the propriety of rebuking error. On pages 75 and 76 we read: "'What was it,' Mrs. Eddy continued, 'that made Jesus the Messiah?' The answer given was, 'His spiritual understanding.' 'I will give you the answer,' she replied, 'the true answer in the language of the Bible: he "loved righteousness and hated iniquity." ' Then she proceeded to explain that the true Christian not only loves the right, but that he hates iniquity and is willing to uncover the evil in himself and in others."
