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Introduction The Spirit of Christ, that is the Spirit of Truth, forever proclaims its presence with us by the utterance of “Peace on earth, good will to men.” This proclamation of Perfect Love, when heard by men, presages the healing of every ill, here and now. The peace it promises is for earth, not heaven, and the “good will” is for men, not angels. The fact that we have felt unrest, and that a will contrary to good seems to have pursued us, proves blindness to the Presence and an ear deaf to that “Voice.” Yet, it ever speaks; “Lo, I am with you always.” In response to the ever-increasing interest in the things of Spirit, this volume is sent forth, that the strength of its voice may be added to the mighty chorus of Truth that now sounds throughout our lands, in acknowledgment of the Infinite Love that fills and rules the world. To do justice to the subject presented in this book, old or new students must study it systematically, and consider its teachings earnestly, without prejudice. If we take to a book thoughts filled with preconceived and obdurate opinions, we shall bear little away. When giving our consideration to a new subject, or to a new presentation of an old subject, an unbiased judgment is but fair. Truth may be tested, and demonstration of Truth is its best endorsement. “He that doeth the will shall know of the doctrine.” Intelligent faith is supplanting blind belief. “When that which is perfect is come, that which was in part shall be done away.” The faith that has been mere belief and hope is being “done away” in a better understanding that is bringing fulfillment of every hope. This is the faith that “removes mountains” and “heals the sick.” Truth is changeless; only opinions of Truth change. Perfect Science is exact knowledge of Truth and, to deserve the name, must be as exact as the Changeless Truth is. Its conclusion are not drawn from appearances that are not yet understood, nor from beliefs that may change to-morrow. Its basis is changeless. We are learning now to say “I know,” instead of “I believe.” This is a step in spiritual unfoldment bespoken by Jesus: “Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” “This is life eternal, to know God and Jesus Christ whom he hath sent.” The same consummation was foreseen by the prophets, who declared, “The knowledge of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the sea,” and the deplorable condition of God’s people pending this state of understanding is pictured in other words of the prophet, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” (Read in Selected Bible Readings, “The Value of Knowledge,” p. 50, and “Understanding,” p. 24 [Students of these lessons should have that little book, as many references to it will be given. The price is given in the back of this book.] Our faith must be logical to be scientific, and must be scientific to be intelligent. Written as well as oral lessons upon such a theme as this must be presented in a way that will meet the needs of all. One wants to hear only Bible proofs; another, who reads or hears the same lesson, does not care for what the Bible says. Both of these have a right to be regarded, and Truth can satisfy both. The metaphysical teachings in the Science appeal to those who are willing to hear Law and Order revealed, as based upon the One Perfect Mind. The spiritual teachings appeal to those who love the Fatherhood of God. So closely linked are the Spiritual and the Metaphysical, so united are Religion and Science, that those who are drawn by the appeal of Science find themselves “religious” in the truest sense, and those who think they want only the religious develop into scientific thinkers. At the close of classes, students have come with new Bibles, glad to show them and to say: “I have never cared to own a Bible, but now I want to study it from cover to cover.” The first studies in this book are two courses of seven lessons each, and a Summary of Divine Science teachings in on lesson. The first course of lessons is for children, which means also those who are “young” in understanding. Herein, Truth is told in simplest manner. [This is published in separate form for easier distribution.] The second seven lessons are the Primary Course, as given in our College. These are for those of maturer “years,” or thought, yet we advise all to study first the simple lessons. The Summary gives, in concise form, the important teachings of Science. At the finish of this part of the book, are questions that may be used by students as a test of their understanding and as a guide for review. The second part of the book is explained in its preface. Do not read these lessons too rapidly. Be certain of understanding and practicing each one before reading the next. One lesson carefully studied each day, or even on alternate days, is sufficient for beginners. Learn the practical statements given at the close of the chapters. If every rule given herein is followed, there is no doubt of a student’s progress in understanding and power. In the arrangement of this book, the suggestion of a young friend is followed. Hearing one speak of the difficulty of satisfying an audience so varied in consciousness, the young man replied: “I should think you would begin with the simplest and rise gradually to the highest, so giving something to help each.” This valuable advice, and represents the true plan for a book that is to be of universal service. May each be able to receive that which nourishes him, and thus “grow” or unfold from the Eternal Consciousness until he comprehends the Whole. “That speaking the truth in love, we may grow up into Him in all things.” The
Text-Book Of The
Colorado College of Divine Science Denver,
Colorado From:
Third Edition Made
available here by the ministry of Rev.
Lawrence C. Terry, M.Msc., D.Min. P. O. Box
68324 Indianapolis,
IN 46268-0324 |
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