ABC of Spiritualism 1 & 2 / 100
THE A. B. C. OF SPIRITUALISM
One Hundred of the Questions most commonly asked about Spiritualism, answered tersely and plainly
B. F. AUSTIN, A. M., D. D
- What is Spiritualism?
Spiritualism is the Science which affirms the existence of Spirit as the Origin, Sustainer and Reality in all the forms of Nature and in all the expression of life. According to its teachings the Universe is spirit-built and constitutes a Divine Revelation of Spirit (God). Spirit manifests in all life, in all intelligence, in all power, in all wisdom and in all that is True, Beautiful and Good. Spiritualism is the Philosophy which explains the manifold operations of the Spirit in nature, and in man.
It is the Religion which demonstrates through Mediumship
life’s continuity after death, affirms man’s divine origin and relationship, furnishes man with the true philosophy of prayer, gives the strongest possible motives to good conduct, inspires and
aids man in self-development, and offers him the richest consolation in life’s sorrows. - Are Spiritualists Justified in Styling Spiritualism a Religion?
Yes, abundantly justified by its teachings and its effect upon human character and life. Leaving out all references to the derivation of the word religion—since the derivation of a word is very often lost sight
of in its changed use and meaning—it may be most positively affirmed that in the accepted use of the word Religion today there are three universally recognized ideas: the existence of a Supreme Power; the efficacy of Prayer; and the duty and privilege of man to come into harmony and peace with that “power, not ourselves, that makes for righteousness.”
Spiritualism recognizes the omnipresence of Spirit—finds its manifestations and divine revelations in heaven and earth, in man and beast, in rock and flower, and thus the truly awakened Spiritualist is ever “face to face” with God.
Spiritualism recognizes the efficacy and value of prayer, explaining in its lucid and inspiring teachings how every expression of man’s desire for the True, Beautiful and Good, causes the soul to “mount up on wings like the eagle,” through the operation of natural law; and how prayers are often specifically
answered through the ministering angels and our arisen friends.
Spiritualism in all its literature and inspired teachings has ever affirmed, the absolute failure of all creeds, ceremonies, sacraments and ecclesiastical services to bring peace and comfort to mankind until the individual, through knowledge of the truth and loyal obedience to the truth, has brought his thoughts and affections into harmony with the great laws that govern the spirit realm. Salvation from the viewpoint of Spiritualism is found only in that knowledge of, and obedience to, truth which brings
man’s life into perfect adjustment with Nature and with God.