Lecture Notes: Theology and Health Principles

Introduction

• Purpose: This lecture compensates for a missed class, covering quiz (50 points), devotional, and attendance.
• Subject: Theology and health principles, focusing on prevention over cure.

Key Concepts

Body as God's Temple

• Doctrine: Our body is considered God's temple.
• Biblical Reference: Destroying this temple equates to a significant spiritual consequence.

Alcohol Consumption

• Ephesians 5:18: Advises against drunkenness, promotes being filled with the spirit.
• 1 Timothy 5:23: Suggests using a little wine for stomach ailments, not the same as modern alcoholic beverages.
• Types of Wine:
  • Unfermented: Pure grape juice.
  • Fermented: Contains alcohol, often avoided by religious figures.

Illegal Substances and Addictions

• Drugs, Cigarettes, Marijuana: Not mentioned explicitly in the Bible but implied through the principle of not harming the body.
• Health Impacts: Prohibited by health professionals and governments due to health risks.
• Principle: Do not destroy the body as it is God's temple (Exodus 20:3).

Dietary Guidelines

Original Diet

• Genesis 1:29: Initial human diet consisted of plants and fruits.
• Health Benefits: Prolonged life expectancy and health.

Clean vs. Unclean Animals

• Noah’s Ark Distinction: Clean and unclean animals identified by God.
• Leviticus Dietary Laws:
  • Land Animals: Must be cloven-footed and chew the cud.
  • Sea Creatures: Must have fins and scales.
  • Birds: Predatory birds are unclean.

Health Concerns with Unclean Animals

• Pigs: Monogastric digestive system; carry parasites and are considered unclean.
• Scavengers: Animals like pigs, shrimp, and certain birds clean the environment but aren’t meant for consumption.

End Times and Unclean Food

• Isaiah Prophecy: In the last days, those consuming unclean foods will face judgment.
• Rational Decision: Avoid unclean foods for both health and spiritual benefits.

Misinterpretations in the New Testament

• Misconception: Belief that New Testament cleansed all animals.
• Clarification: What was cleansed was human sin, not the nature of animals.

Conclusion

• Final Instructions: Take notes on the principles discussed, emphasizing prevention and maintaining the sanctity of the body as God’s temple.