Spirit & Body
The spirit self and physical self, how the spirit grows, and the relationship between the two worlds.
What is the physical mind, and what is the spirit mind?
Humans possess a dual nature with two interacting minds: the physical mind, focused on bodily needs and survival, and the spirit mind, attuned to truth, goodness, beauty, and love. Ideally, the spirit mind should guide the physical mind, but the Fall inverted this order, leading to internal conflict. Spiritual growth involves restoring the spirit mind's rightful authority, nourished by divine love and good deeds, impacting both spiritual and physical well-being.
How does our spiritual body grow compared to our physical body?
The spiritual body grows distinctly from the physical body. While the physical body grows automatically with nutrition, the spiritual body requires "life elements" from God (divine love, truth) and "vitality elements" from our good actions and words on Earth. This earthly life is the sole period for the spirit's growth and maturation, as it cannot develop after physical death. Our moral choices and faith determine our spiritual state in the eternal spirit world.
What is the state of being 'dead' as referred to in the Bible?
The Bible presents two types of death: physical and spiritual. Physical death is the natural transition of the spirit from the body, preparing us for eternal life. Spiritual death is separation from God, caused by sin, and results in living under Satan's influence, even while physically alive. True life, or spiritual resurrection, means re-establishing a loving connection with God. Salvation is about achieving this spiritual life now, where genuine love is the measure of spiritual vitality.
What is our real self, the body or the spirit?
Our true self is the spirit body, which is eternal, while the physical body is a temporary vessel. Earthly life is crucial for the spirit body's growth and maturation, as it receives "life elements" from God and "vitality elements" from our good deeds and words. A life of faith and true love fosters a perfected spirit body, preparing us for eternal existence in the spirit world.