The surging demand for freedom and democracy in the world today needs to be met by students of Christian Science through the highest exercise of democracy in their churches. Democracy, insofar as it is based on acknowledgment of the value and capacity of each individual as a child of God, is the highest form of human government. It is a prelude to our full understanding and demonstration of God's government of the universe and man. Students of Christian Science are all learners of democracy and the Golden Rule, and can work together to make their churches and societies the models of democratic government they are intended to be.
Mrs. Eddy's definition of "Church," in its opening section: "The structure of Truth and Love; whatever rests upon and proceeds from divine Principle," Science and Health, p. 583; gives the basis for true church government. This spiritual structure is what the human institution is founded upon. As church members grow into the understanding that divine Principle, Truth, and Love form the structure of Church, the outcome will be a deeper sense of unity and love in their churches, and better healing work.
Democracy may be defined as the Golden Rule in action. Where the mechanics of democratic action are understood, and yet branch church government fails to function democratically, this is usually basically due to failure to practice Christ Jesus' injunction, "As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise." Luke 6:31; Where God—divine Principle, Truth, and Love—governs, no room is left for self-will, self-justification, selfishness, and domination, which are the antithesis of democracy.
