Christian Spiritualism combines and unites Christianity and SpiritualismIronically, yet perhaps demonstrating the pioneer path concerning spiritual evolution, many mainstream Christians (and even some Spiritualists), dismiss Christian Spiritualism as something a little obscure and separate from either Spiritualism or Christianity. The irony is that Christian Spiritualism draws both Spiritualism and Christianity together in a wholesome way of life with unending revelation of Truth. The following is the beginning of an address given by the Rev. W. Horsley, in support of Christian Spiritualism, with a view of explaining a little about Christian Spiritualism... A short extract from an address in support of Christian Spiritualism by the Rev. W. T. Horsley"...Very often I am asked the following and other like questions: 'Why do you speak on behalf of Christian Spiritualism?' 'Do you honestly believe in these new ideas?' 'Are you justified in supporting them?' 'Are they prompted by Satanic influences?' "In the first place - I am a Christian Spiritualist. Why? Because it appeals to me. I find God's Word a means of communication. There is nothing new in such belief. If the inspired mind today would combine with the expressions of those wise seers of ancient days, there would be an awakening of those slumbering souls which appear so inactive respecting God's spiritual truths. "While we must all admit that evil influences are ever at work, the idea that Christian Spiritualism is the outcome of Satanic influences is not justified. "The faith of a Christian Spiritualist is moulded by the character of Christ - such faith is a preparation for the Life Eternal. Belief in spirit return and spirit communion is not new. It is very ancient. But such belief was put aside by the school of theology. We would not say that theology was prompted by evil influence; but it would seem that it was fostered in an atmosphere of misdirected power. "Christian Spiritualism has a distinctly religious influence on human nature, and enables it to blend with the Divine. It has an inspiring influence, which calls for the best in man, and devotion to the highest ideals. Love is its Guardian Angel, Truth its ministering Spirit. "Christian Spiritualism is not an experimental religion, it is a faith based on morality and on God's spiritual truth. By some it is considered as a menace to the Church; such an idea is without foundation. It is not a stumbling block to any good work; on the contrary, it is the means to a good spiritual life, it has no quarrel with the orthodox, its followers simply claim the right to worship God according to their light and prompting of the heart. They place their confidence in God, and trust to the guidance of God's ministering angels; not to Church authority, which is largely the outcome of theological experiment. "The object of Christian Spiritualism is to bring about a spirit of true friendship among God's people, and a close communion between God and man. Its influence is being felt by thousands of souls desiring closer spiritual fellowship. Such desire is fed by Divine Grace which strengthens faith, supplies courage and enables every seeker to realize the beauty of God's glory. "Every Christian, no matter of what denomination, should recognise his own responsibility, and endeavour to carry out the high standard of Christ's teachings: SERVICE TO OTHERS..." |