As individuals learn to use Science and Health as a textbook, they find themselves following specific instructions for specific needs. For example, there are definite instructions for giving Christian Science treatment. The chapter "Fruitage" certainly meets specific needs. It is included, Mrs. Eddy says, "for the assurance and encouragement of the reader."See Science and Health, p. 600 Thus when readers find themselves in need of assurance and encouragement (and how often we do need more sureness and more courage!), it's natural to turn to this chapter.
The eighteenth chapter of Science and Health was added in 1902. Mrs. Eddy sent two of her trusted students, Edward Kimball and William R McKenzie, a large number of testimonies from which they selected the healings that appear in the chapter.
This chapter opens a window on the natural and normal application of the all-encompassing spiritual truths discussed in the preceding chapters. "Fruitage" offers examples of the diverse ways in which new students of Christian Science were healed by reading Science and Health. The chapter also hints at the range of human problems that may be addressed with expectancy of healing. ... It records the healing of many diseases, from colds to cancer, from deafness and severe eye troubles to broken bones. Also, it tells of an unhappy home and rocky marriage restored to unity and peace. An individual suffering from insanity is delivered to full freedom. Addictions and negative behavior are overcome: drinking, smoking, bad temper, and the use of profanity. The Science of Christ is seen to be applicable to business and schoolwork. One mother declares: "That for which I am, however, most grateful, is the daily help it is to me in my household of young children. I am sure if mothers only knew what Christian Science truly means they would give all they possess to know it. . . . what a blessed help this wonderful truth is in the training of our children, and how quickly the child grasps it."Ibid., p. 636
