The Church of Christ, Scientist, founded by Mary Baker Eddy in the late 19th century, holds the Bible in utmost reverence as a foundational text. Central to the beliefs and practices of this Christian denomination is the understanding that the Bible, along with Eddy’s seminal work, “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” provides profound spiritual insights and guidance for living a life in accordance with God’s will. In this blog, we will explore how the Bible serves as a cornerstone for the Church of Christ, Scientist, and how Mary Baker Eddy’s writings complement and shed light on its teachings.
Mary Baker Eddy, as the founder of the Church of Christ, Scientist, emphasized the Bible’s centrality in Christian life and worship. In “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” she writes, “The Bible contains the recipe for all healing” (Eddy, 406:1-2). This assertion underscores the belief that the Bible not only serves as a source of spiritual wisdom but also as a practical guide for achieving physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Eddy’s interpretation of the Bible emphasizes the power of spiritual understanding in overcoming illness and adversity, aligning with the teachings of Christ regarding the healing of the sick.
Moreover, Eddy emphasizes the importance of understanding the spiritual meaning behind biblical narratives and teachings. She writes, “The Scriptures are very sacred. Our aim must be to have them understood spiritually, for only by this understanding can truth be gained” (Eddy, 547:23). This perspective aligns with the Church of Christ, Scientist’s approach to biblical interpretation, which emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment and insight in uncovering the deeper truths contained within scripture. By delving into the spiritual significance of biblical passages, practitioners of Christian Science seek to gain a deeper understanding of God’s nature and His relationship to humanity.
From a biblical perspective, the Church of Christ, Scientist finds ample support for its teachings and practices. For instance, the concept of spiritual healing, which lies at the heart of Christian Science, finds validation in numerous passages throughout the Bible. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus declares, “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8, KJV). This injunction highlights the authority and power bestowed upon believers to heal through spiritual means, echoing the healing ministry of Jesus Christ himself.
Furthermore, the Church of Christ, Scientist emphasizes the spiritual interpretation of biblical passages, as exemplified by Mary Baker Eddy’s writings. This approach aligns with the Apostle Paul’s assertion that “the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life” (2 Corinthians 3:6, KJV). By discerning the spiritual significance behind the literal words of scripture, practitioners of Christian Science seek to uncover the eternal truths that transcend the limitations of human understanding.
In conclusion, the Bible serves as a foundational text for the Church of Christ, Scientist, providing spiritual guidance and insight into the nature of God and His relationship to humanity. Mary Baker Eddy’s writings, particularly “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” complement and elucidate the teachings of the Bible, offering a deeper understanding of its principles and precepts. Through the spiritual interpretation of scripture and the application of its teachings to everyday life, practitioners of Christian Science strive to embody the timeless truths contained within the pages of the Bible, thereby fulfilling its promise of healing, redemption, and salvation.
References:
Eddy, Mary Baker. “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures.” The First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, 1875.
The Holy Bible, King James Version.
