Page:Valid Objections to So-called Christian Science (1902).pdf/24

 sibilities—in short, the creature placed in the position his Maker should hold and practically identified with Him. The absurdity and evil influence of such a belief must surely be obvious, when carefully considered; and would certainly be more so if any large portion of humanity were controlled by its force.

Again, in the realm of conduct and ethics, as well as in philosophical fundamentals, the practice of Christian Scientists does not coincide with the teachings of the Master. According to their strict theory no physical care is to be given to the sick; nor is sympathy, as we understand it, to be offered to the afflicted. Even the knowledge of disagreeable things is to be avoided. He who suffers is to be told that he doesn't suffer, and not for a moment to confess to himself that he can suffer. What he takes for bodily suffering is nothing but mental error.

Thus, in one sweep, is the parable of the Good Samaritan done away with: and the priest and the Levite who passed by on the other side exalted. Humanitarianism and altruism have no place; for, if there be no sorrow or pain, except such as we make or undo for ourselves in our thought, what need then, as the true