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Metaphysical Application Ideas for the Christian Science Bible Lesson on “Truth” for July 23 – 30, 2007
By Corde Hanzlik, C.S. of Austin, TX
Editor’s Note: The following background information and application ideas for the Christian Science Bible Lesson for this week are offered primarily to help CedarS campers and staff (as well as friends) see and demonstrate the great value of daily study of the Christian Science Bible lessons year-round, not just at camp! You can sign up free to have these mets emailed to you in English by Monday or in French or Spanish by Wednesday: CHECK www.cedarscamps.org/metaphysical/ FOR A FREE TRANSLATION of this weekly “met” offered in FRENCH by Pascal Bujard of Switzerland AND NOW in SPANISH by Ana Arcioni of Spain.
The campers will love this Lesson as we are given the mandate to sing, “Onward, Christian Soldiers.” We don’t consider ourselves literal soldiers, but look at the sword that we are given in the Golden Text! What a weapon! We have the Word of God – decisive, powerful, beyond the physical – discerning thoughts and intents! We’ll find even more weapons and armor in the Lesson. Beginning with Paul’s joyous message in last week’s Lesson, we have the continuation, in this Responsive Reading, of his work, his pledge of commitment to the Word to spread the Word by works, yet with tender nurturing words. (Shouldn’t we “cherish… her children” – each one our Father-Mother God has sent to our Sunday Schools and churches just as the counselors, CS Nurses and Practitioners cherish each dear one sent to camp?) Is this not the true church without walls that we are to witness to and expand?
Section 1: Wow! Are we the sword or the arrows? Both working together?
Isaiah describes the sword as his mouth and in detail, the arrows (B3) that support our job as proclaimed in the first Bible marker. We are to exalt God with our mouths (and lives) according to God’s law just like Isaiah did. The recruiting requirements for God’s army are in the 5th marker of the Bible. We know that we are approved. Play with verse 15 in II Tim. 2. First, study. Then study to shew; study to shew thyself; study to shew thyself approved: etc. (Add the words one at a time and see how the meaning unfolds.) See where it takes you in your confidence level with yourself and with God. God chose us. Verses 24 and 25 of II Timothy 2 give us our character guidelines. [For centuries, parents, camp counselors and character educators worldwide have been striving to follow Paul tips for working with “those that oppose themselves.” (B5) A good theme hymn: “Speak gently … win them back again” (CS Hymnal 315)]
We have the first two tenets of Christian Science in the first marker of the Science and Health – our law and reason for following our biblical commands and adoring God! After all, we are made in His image and likeness. Mrs. Eddy obediently followed the commands of God to establish the law of His Science for all to understand and practice. (S&H3) Whoever might accuse Christian Science as not being a Bible-based religion might use the message in S&H 4 to begin his research into this Science of Christianity. (Of course that statement is in the chapter, “Some Objections Answered,” in Science and Health, originally written to specifically rebuke arguments launched at Christian Science.)
Section 2: Who needs a sword when a sling will do?
Are we the little guys bullied by the giants of materialism? Like the shepherd boy David, we have the only weapon needed to meet the demand! (Of course, the part of the David story that is never in the Lesson is what David does to Goliath after he kills him. Check it out in I Sam 17:51.) Swords are handy. David was well aware of his God-mandate.
[Director’s Note: David demonstrates the trust and courage of an obedient sheep to obey his Shepherd’s voice even when it is directing him to run toward a scary foe, like a wolf, that appears vastly superior. At camp there are daily opportunities to use spiritual truths to overcome our “false fears” that Mrs. Eddy identifies as “foes” to be “tattered” by “truth … when understood.” (Christian Science Hymnal 160) CedarS Lake Zipline is a spiritual-growth tool designed specifically for “David wanna-bes.” The height of the zipline above the “Red-Zone” running platform is “six cubits and a span” (9′-8″) – the height of Goliath. After passing a series of three readiness tests, a zipliner must “sling” or shout out a smooth stone, or well-understood spiritual truth, before running down the platform “to meet Goliath.” Everyone is encouraged to take home the truths understood and the courage proved so they can run confidently to meet and defeat whatever scary challenges loom large to them. You can run with God’s Word to meet and defeat your biggest fears or foes!]
David knew because the word of God was with him that he had the courage to do anything. We have that same courage when we are obedient to God. (S&H5) Error would boast itself into recognition, but should we believe the liar? (S&H6) Evil can’t win! Evil is self-destructive. The order that we are given in S&H 9 is sometimes difficult to do – “Let Truth uncover and destroy.” We become so impatient we want to get rid of the error ourselves and on our time schedule. The rebuke often follows our self-pride. We learn to be patient — that is expectant, not merely tolerant.
Section 3: Jesus uses his sword.
Jesus uses his word-sword in a very exact and swift discernment of the Pharisaical attack on him. His self-witness knew the power of the Word. He knew his authority and record was of God as well as prophesied in the Old Testament. That was proof enough. (B8) We know the truth – the sword of the Golden Text.
We are free because of Truth’s power and all-potency. We don’t make truth true. The Pharisaical taunts of mortal belief on the body or mind have no power or reality. (S&H10,11,12) We have the mandate to claim this proof of law, Truth. (S&H13) And, we can expect to experience healing results to be put on record.
Section 4: Spiritual weapons come with warning labels.
Coach Jesus taught and empowered his disciples to follow the path that he was taking. He warns them as he gives them power, to be alert to the tricks of the devil. There are many instructions. Do we sometimes feel that we, too, must be careful? So careful, that we do nothing to help ourselves, mankind? Even family? Or are we blinded by family ties? This (Monday) morning at CedarS in a 30-minute Christian Science lecture on “Healing the Ultimate Adventure,” on, Chet Manchester pointed out that Jesus’ commands are clear: “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils.” (B9)
The B10 message in Ecclesiastes is wonderful in a literal way: “Marvel not at the matter!” There is no matter, no material picture that is able to alarm us when we are God focused. There’s no other power, but God!
Jesus had a sharp sword with the wisdom of its use. He knew its power. (S&H14) At last, the definition of sword! Which meaning is the valued one? (S&H15, 16) A sword in the wrong hands can be an extremely dangerous weapon. It would be the training of the swordsman that makes the true power of the sword of Truth. (S&H17, 18) Our shield is Science! (S&H19) When we are on God’s side, nothing can stop us, not even a “pointed bayonet.” (Another type of sword mentioned in S19.)
Section 5: The sword in the wrong hands or wrong thought, what happens?
Jesus knew his time for betrayal had come. Even against the angered crowd, he had his peace, peace enough to heal the wound of fear and anger. He forgives Judas (and Peter) for the incidents of betrayal (and revenge.) Friend. What a pronouncement in the midst of hate and frustration. (B11, 12, 13, 14)
Christian Science is a weapon of greatest capacity! “Unlabored … energy!” (S&H20, 21) What kind of Christians are we? (S&H22) Are we always calm under pressure assured of God’s power and direction? Do we have the same weapons as Jesus? The “moral courage?” (S&H24) Sometimes error needs a good boot in the pants.
Section 6: Are we ready for warfare? Are we armed and armored appropriately?
Peter had learned a great lesson before this citation in the Lesson. Read the full story in Acts 10. (B15) There is no literal sword needed when we realize the brotherhood of man. Just in case we get into a tough place, let’s be prepared with our invisible armor. (B16) This armor is one-size-fits-all, really all. The designer, God, gives a lifetime guarantee for fit, wear-ability, durability, effectiveness, complete protection, etc.
We don’t need steel that would rust or start to rot, to be weak or to fail. We only need our sword of Spirit. (S&H26) Put on the armor because victory is ours through God. (S&H27) How do we know ourselves – as strong or weak mortals? or as mighty children of God? Jesus was made stronger through persecution and crucifixion. He was not defeated. We are emboldened by his example and proof. We need the “unswerving might” when we have our thought-armor on. Hymn 5 is another mandated hymn for Sunday. We put on our armor. Thank heavens that “Truth is always the victor!” (S&H30) No “foe in ambush can claim the prize.” The prize of our God-heritage is never lost. So, “on with Christ to victory go, o side with God, and win!” Hymn 296. Wow, there are lots of soldier hymns! “Put on the whole armor!” Hymn 292. 59, 312, ……. God’s on our side as we are on His side. The covenant is forever! Have fun running with God’s Word to meet and defeat your biggest fears or foes!
Camp Director’s Note: The above sharing is the latest in a series of CedarS Bible Lesson “mets” (metaphysical application ideas) contributed weekly by a rotation of CedarS Resident Practitioners and occasionally by other metaphysicians. This document is intended to initiate further study as well as to encourage the application of ideas found in the Weekly Bible Lessons as printed in the Christian Science Quarterly and as available at Christian Science Reading Rooms.* Originally sent JUST to campers, staff and CedarS families who wanted to continue at home and in their home Sunday Schools the same type of focused Lesson study and inspiration they had felt at camp, CedarS lesson “mets” are in no way meant to be definitive or conclusive or in any way a substitute for daily study of the lesson. The thoughts presented are the inspiration of the moment and are offered to give a bit more dimension, background and daily applicability to some of the ideas and passages being studied. The citations referenced (i.e. B1 and S28) from this week’s Bible Lesson in the “met” (metaphysical application ideas) are taken from the King James Version of the Bible (B1-24) and the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health With Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy. (S1-30) The Bible and Science and Health are the ordained pastor of the Churches of Christ, Scientist. The Bible Lesson is the sermon read in Christian Science church services throughout the world. The Lesson-Sermon speaks individually through the Christ to everyone, providing unique insights and tailor-made applications for each one. We are glad you requested this metaphysical sharing and hope that you find some of these ideas helpful in your daily spiritual journey, in your deeper digging in the books and in closer bonding with your Comforter and Pastor. Spirituality is your innate estate that connects you moment by moment with God. (See S&H 258:30) Christ is the gift of light that Jesus gave. This Christ light of spiritual understanding comes with and reveals infinite blessings. So, have fun unwrapping and cherishing your very special, spiritual gift(s)! Then, wherever you are, share them with all as big blessings that make the Infinite difference!
Enjoy!
Warren Huff, Camp Director director@cedarscamps.org (636) 394-6162
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The weekly Metaphysical Newsletter is provided at no charge to the 1,200 campers and staff blessed each summer at CedarS, as well as to CedarS alumni, families and friends who have requested it. However, current and planned gifts are a big help and are greatly appreciated in defraying the costs of running this service and of providing needed camperships, programs and operations support. Click http://www.cedarscamps.org/giving for more about how you can provide support online or to get information or discuss privately how to make a special gift to help perpetuate CedarS work.
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The CedarS Camps, Inc. THANKS TO YOU PRECIOUS DONORS
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Lebanon, MO 65536 OF CedarS IMPORTANT WORK!
LETTING SPECIAL NEEDS BE KNOWN –We are seeking funds to help cover:
1 Four recently-scheduled Christian Science lectures at CedarS (for different 2007 sessions). These 30-minute talks are being offered by the Manual-based authority of the Christian Science Board of Directors with a topic of: “HEALING: the ultimate adventure!” Campers and staff are LOVING these!
2. The CSO (formerly “College Org”) Summit over Labor Day 2007 (Aug. 31-Sep. 3) at CedarS for all college and university students, professors and incoming high school seniors. Please help spread the word about this hopefully annual event sponsored by TMC Youth (The Mother Church Youth committee) with talks by Christian Science lecturers, speakers and writers for the Christian Science Monitor, Journal and Sentinel. You can find details on the inside covers of recent periodicals and register at tmcyouth.com.
To print a formatted and printer-friendly version of this week’s Met just go to: http://www.cedarscamps.org/metaphysical/met.asp or your e-mail address can be added per your request by our staff at CedarS. For additional support, or if you have any concerns, please send e-mail to: director@cedarscamps.org.
A new, visually-oriented and very helpful resource for study of the weekly Bible Lesson is being produced by The Christian Science Publishing Society and can be found at: myBibleLesson.com. What a great auxiliary to lesson study — maybe even reading beyond citation markers using the handsome new student books now sold in Reading Rooms! MyBibleLesson contains word definitions, Bible background, timelines and translations, plus many healing ideas to use. Why not check out this effort to help bring to life each beloved Bible lesson in order to bless the youthful thinker and Sunday School student (and teacher) in us all! (Check out the picture again on the front cover of this week’s MyBibleLesson that was taken at the 2006 CSO Summit at CedarS.)
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