Eddy’s revelation consists of two parts:
1. The discovery of this divine science of mind-healing, through a spiri- tual sense of the Scriptures, and
2. The proof, by present demonstration, that the so-called miracles of Jesus did not specially belong to a dispensation now ended, but that they illustrated an ever-operative divine principle. (Eddy, 1875, p. 123: 16–27)
Eddy’s own early research and experiments in homeopathy, allopathy, and diet preceded her discoveries about spiritual healing. Ultimately, she found that “a mental method produces permanent health” (Eddy, 1875, p. 79: 8–9).
Christian Scientists are free to choose the method of health care they feel is most effective. Their choice is not compelled by a church. Individuals and families make their own decisions. Christian Scientists, like others, grapple with the moral, social, and cultural implications of modern medical approaches and technological developments—including gene therapy, cloning, and artificial life support systems.
HEALTH Traditions ■ 113
They are free to make their own choices on important social health matters, such as abortion, birth control, blood transfusions, and organ donations. Those who consider themselves Christian Scientists may have studied and practiced Christian Science for up to five generations. Or they may be reading Science and Health for the first time, for a better understanding of how spirituality is linked to health and well-being. Christian Scientists turn to the Bible and the pages of Science and Health for answers to humanity’s deepest questions (Graunke, 2003).