50%
Confidence
Belief overview
Christ and the mission of Jesus
Jesus occupies a central place as revealer of divine truth and supreme model of healing and salvation.
2
Supportive
1
Contrary
0
Neutral
What it is: Christian Science gives central place to Jesus Christ, treating his life, teaching, crucifixion, and resurrection as decisive for the revelation of spiritual truth.
How the tradition understands it: The tradition usually distinguishes between Jesus and the Christ as idea or divine manifestation, without reducing the singular importance of Jesus as supreme example and revealer.
Basis and context: This formulation develops from Mary Baker Eddy's biblical reading and her own language.
Debates and variations: This is one of the most debated points in comparison with more classical Christologies.
Documentary evidence
Supportive
John 14:12
Who believes will also do the works of Jesus.
Reference: John 14:12.
Content: Jesus affirms that those who believe will do his works also.
Use in debate: Key text to legitimize continuity of spiritual healing.
Matthew 9:35
Jesus teaches, preaches, and heals.
Reference: Matthew 9:35.
Content: The text summarizes the ministry of Jesus in teaching, proclamation, and healing.
Use in debate: Important for the centrality of healing in Christian mission.
Contrary
Luke 24:39
Risen Jesus speaks of body and tangibility.
Reference: Luke 24:39.
Content: Jesus invites the disciples to perceive his risen presence in tangible way.
Use in debate: Frequently remembered in debates about highly spiritualized readings of the resurrection.