Christian Science, founded in the 19th century by Mary Baker Eddy, claims to be a return to primitive Christianity but diverges significantly from biblical teachings. Rooted in metaphysical ideas, Christian Science rejects fundamental Christian doctrines about God, Jesus, sin, and salvation, replacing them with a system of spiritualized interpretations. This essay examines the history and beliefs of Christian Science, contrasts its teachings with biblical Christianity, and concludes that Christian Science is a false religion incompatible with the gospel.
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The Origins of Christian Science
Christian Science began in 1879 when Mary Baker Eddy founded the Church of Christ, Scientist, after publishing her book Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures. Eddy claimed to have discovered a new understanding of Jesus’ teachings and the nature of reality after a personal healing experience. Her teachings emphasize the unreality of matter, the spiritual nature of existence, and the power of divine thought to heal physical and mental ailments.
Today, Christian Science has a global following, though its membership has declined significantly in recent decades. Its appeal lies in its promise of healing through prayer and a spiritualized understanding of reality.
Key Doctrinal Differences Between Christian Science and Christianity
- The Nature of God
- Christian Science: God is an impersonal divine principle, synonymous with “Mind,” “Spirit,” and “Truth.” God is not a personal, relational being.
- Christianity: The Bible reveals God as a personal, loving Creator who desires a relationship with His people. “I will be their God, and they will be my people.” (Jeremiah 31:33) God is not a vague principle but the living, sovereign Lord of all creation. “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)
- Jesus Christ
- Christian Science: Jesus is seen as a man who demonstrated the “Christ ideal,” a divine principle available to all. His death and resurrection are interpreted symbolically, not as literal atonement for sin.
- Christianity: Jesus is the eternal Son of God, fully divine and fully human, whose sacrificial death and resurrection provide salvation. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1) “For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” (1 Peter 3:18)
- The Nature of Reality
- Christian Science: Matter, sin, sickness, and death are illusions. True reality is entirely spiritual, and healing comes through recognizing this spiritual truth.
- Christianity: The Bible affirms the physical reality of the world and the impact of sin. While God is spirit (John 4:24), He created a physical world and will redeem it through Christ. “The creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.” (Romans 8:19)
- Sin and Salvation
- Christian Science: Sin is not real but a misunderstanding of divine truth. Salvation involves realizing one’s spiritual perfection and aligning with the “divine Mind.”
- Christianity: Sin is a real rebellion against God, resulting in separation from Him. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who paid the penalty for sin. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:23-24)
- The Bible vs. Science and Health
- Christian Science: The Bible is considered useful but must be interpreted through Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures. Eddy’s writings are viewed as inspired and authoritative.
- Christianity: The Bible alone is the inspired, inerrant Word of God, sufficient for teaching and salvation. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16)
- Healing
- Christian Science: Physical healing is achieved through prayer and alignment with divine principles, rejecting medical treatment.
- Christianity: While God can and does heal, He also works through means such as medicine and human care. Physical healing is not guaranteed in this life, but ultimate healing is promised in eternity. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” (Revelation 21:4)
Practices and Beliefs in Christian Science
- Spiritual Healing: Christian Scientists emphasize healing through prayer and deny the legitimacy of medical treatment. This practice often leads to preventable suffering and death, particularly for children.
- Church Services: Services in Christian Science churches involve readings from the Bible and Science and Health, with no sermons or clergy. Worship is centered on Eddy’s interpretations.
- Denying Physical Reality: Members are taught to deny the existence of sickness, sin, and death, viewing them as illusions to be overcome by spiritual understanding.
- Lack of Traditional Worship: Christian Science worship lacks elements such as communion, baptism, and traditional prayer, focusing instead on study and meditation.
These practices starkly contrast with biblical worship, which includes prayer, fellowship, teaching, and sacraments that reflect God’s grace and truth. “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42)
The Appeal of Christian Science
Christian Science appeals to those seeking healing, control over suffering, and a positive outlook on life. Its emphasis on spiritual reality and denial of physical limitations resonates with people searching for hope. However, its rejection of biblical truth and reliance on metaphysical ideas leave adherents without the assurance of salvation or a proper understanding of God.
Freedom in Christ
In contrast to the abstract principles of Christian Science, Christianity offers a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Salvation is not achieved by denying reality but by trusting in Christ’s finished work on the cross. “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
Christians experience true healing through the power of the Holy Spirit, who brings peace and transformation. While suffering and death are part of this fallen world, believers have the hope of eternal life and ultimate restoration in God’s presence. “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18)
Conclusion
Christian Science and biblical Christianity differ fundamentally in their understanding of God, Jesus, sin, and salvation. While Christian Science relies on metaphysical principles and denies the reality of sin and suffering, Christianity proclaims the truth of God’s Word and the saving power of Jesus Christ. The Bible offers a clear and unchanging message: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)
By understanding the differences between Christian Science and Christianity, believers can confidently reject false teachings and share the gospel with compassion. Jesus’ invitation remains open to all: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) True peace and salvation are found not in human effort or denial but in the grace of God through Christ.
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
