Brief Summary
In this video, Pastor David Cooper introduces a new study called "Life in 3D," focusing on the interconnectedness of spirit, soul (mind), and body as dimensions of health. He emphasizes that God works to make us whole, not just to fix problems, and that true Christian living involves an abundant life in all these areas. The key takeaways include understanding the importance of a relationship with God for spiritual health, maintaining mental and emotional balance, and caring for the physical body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.
- God works to make us whole, not just fix problems.
- Christian living involves an abundant life in spirit, soul, and body.
- Maintaining mental and emotional balance through faith and worship.
- Caring for the physical body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.
Introduction to Life in 3D
Pastor David Cooper introduces "Life in 3D," a study of trilogies in the Bible, starting with the three dimensions of health: spirit, soul, and body. He references 1 Thessalonians 5:23, where Paul blesses the people of God, hoping that their spirit, soul, and body will be kept blameless. Health is developmental, focusing on living well and preventing illness, while healing is remedial, fixing problems. God works in our lives to make us whole, and sin fragments us, but Christ makes us complete.
The God of Peace and Wholeness
The term "God of Peace" signifies completeness and harmony, the opposite of division. Being a Christian is about living an abundant life today, not just going to heaven after death. The human spirit, mind, and body are interconnected parts of a whole person, and growth should occur in all areas simultaneously. The passage in 1 Thessalonians 5:23 is similar to the greatest commandment: to love God with all your heart, soul, and strength, emphasizing that God redeems and impacts the whole person.
The Human Spirit
The spirit, referred to as "Numa," is the eternal part of us that makes us aware of God's existence. Even atheists have an intuitive sense of God, and the human spirit longs for communion with God. Ecclesiastes 12:7 states that when we die, the spirit returns to God. Romans 1:20 explains that God's qualities are visible in creation, leaving humanity without excuse. Sin separates the human spirit from God, as illustrated by the prodigal son, and repentance restores that relationship.
The Human Soul (Mind)
The soul, or "psyche," encompasses the intellect, will, and emotions. Mental health and psychological well-being come from healthy thinking and emotional balance. The word of God helps us think accurately and provides an eternal perspective. Romans 12:2 states that we are transformed by the renewing of our minds. Emotional balance is crucial, and worship helps heal the soul by providing perspective and emotional stability.
The Human Body
The body, or "Soma," is a physical entity cared for by healthy diet, exercise, and rest. Romans 12:2 urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices to God. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 states that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we should glorify God with them. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and getting enough rest are essential for physical well-being. The principle of feeding on healthy foods applies spiritually, mentally, and physically.
Maintaining Health Through Diet and Lifestyle
Drawing a comparison to eagles that only eat live food, it's important to be selective about what we consume spiritually, mentally, and physically. A healthy spiritual diet includes worship with good theology, while a healthy mental diet involves feeding on the word of God. The body constantly reproduces cells, using food to build them, so our diet impacts our physical health. The grace of God makes us whole in spirit, mind, and body.
Prayer and Closing Remarks
Pastor Cooper concludes with a prayer, asking God to sanctify and bring understanding to his people, helping them live healthy lives under the lordship of Christ. He encourages viewers to share the Bible study and follow him on social media and YouTube. He looks forward to seeing everyone in church on Sunday for worship.
