To the extent that Christian Science instruction will make clearer to his mind and fix more deeply within it those several great truths which Christian Science shares in common with philosophy, he will benefit by it. But to the extent that he absorbs, along with them, those errors, fallacies, and confusions which are also part of Christian Science, he will not. Therefore in its study he should keep vigilance close to him and not throw away his right to use critical judgement. One fallacy is not to see that physical means may also be used by God to cure, even if it be granted that they are indirect as well as on a lower plane. They need not be rejected but merely valued for the inferior things they are. But they have their place. Another fallacy is not to see that mental means may also be used. Psychology, change of thought, is also inferior and indirect, but still has a useful place and positive value.
Healings can be done without entering the kingdom. They are achieved by the power of concentration. This leaves the ego still there. The cure is wrought then by an occult, not a spiritual, power. It is personal to the practitioner, not impersonal. Every individual practitioner who makes progress will come to the point where either his power lapses or his understanding outgrows the imposed dogmas. If he accepts this opportunity or passes this test, he may come closer to God.
The Christian Scientist adherent needs to purify his motive. His need of better health or more money may be satisfied in the proper way but must be kept in the proper place. He should not seek to exploit higher powers for lower ends. He should carefully study the meaning of Jesus' words: "Seek ye first the Kingdom of Heaven and all these things shall be added unto you."
-- Notebooks Category 10: Healing of the Self > Chapter 5 : The Healing Power of The Overself > # 21
