Scriptural Authority, the Old Testament and Biblical Considerations

Scriptural Authority, the Old Testament and Biblical Considerations:                      2011 By Jack Kettler                                  

The authority of Scripture flows from the fact that it is God’s Word. As will be shown in this study, the Scriptures declare themselves to be God’s Word. It follows necessarily, that the Scriptures are authoritative. We will also see clear Biblical evidence that the people of Israel had an objective written Scriptural canon and the importance of this to safe guard against false teachers.

The prophet Isaiah declares the power of God’s Word when it is sent forth:

 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:11 David in the Psalms further confirms this truth:

By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. And, …The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Psalms 33:6, 11

Not only is God and His Word irresistible when sent forth, it is important to see at the start of this study just how closely God is identified with the Scriptures.

Consider this example from the book of Romans:

 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. Romans 10:11
The apostle Paul in the book of Romans says, “For the scripture saith.” It is significant to note, when you consult Isaiah 28:16 whom the apostle is quoting, you find that it is God speaking.

To establish this further:

 Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste. Isaiah 28:16

And then in Romans we also read:
For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might show my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. Romans 9:17
Was God speaking or the Scriptures? If there is any doubt, we know for sure after reading Exodus 9:16 that it is God speaking whereas, Romans says, “the scripture saith.” Therefore, it is clear that God and the Scriptures are so closely identified as to be synonymous. In essence, we learn from these examples, “thus saith the Lord God” and the phrase “the Scriptures saith” can be and are used interchangeably.

As stated at the beginning, it should be obvious from the Biblical passages seen thus far, that God’s Word is inseparable from His authority. His Word conveys His authority. A real issue today is one of authority. What role does the Bible have? False religious leaders attack the reliability of the Bible in order to subordinate people to their own authority. The pattern is always the same; the claim is “the Bible is not sufficient.”

The attacks upon Biblical authority and sufficiency are sometimes very subtle, although at times bold claims are made about alleged missing or corrupted parts of the Scriptures. You supposedly need their leaders, traditions, books, or special insights to make up for the missing or unclear parts of the Bible.

The Scriptures declare God to be Sovereign or the absolute ruler over all. God has either preserved His Word from corruption or He has not. These are the only two choices. It is evident from the Scriptures that God has the power to preserve His Word from corruption as evidenced by the testimony of the Scriptures themselves.

Since the Christian recognizes the authority of Scripture we will examine what God has revealed in the Bible about his Word. The Bible provides a powerful testimony concerning itself. God has clearly spoken in the Bible. We can have the utmost confidence in Scripture.

The Biblical view of the Old Testament Scriptures:

The Scriptural passages in this section of the present study give Biblical rationale for putting confidence in the Word of God. The passages cited in this section from the Old Testament clearly teach that the Old Testament itself is the Word of God. The New Testament passages cited in this section clearly refer to the Old Testament as Scripture or the very Word of God. Because of this, there is no reason to doubt that the Old Testament is the Word of God.

The following five passages speak of the Word of God:

 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish aught from it, that ye may keep the commandment of the Lord your God which I command you. Deuteronomy 4:2

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105

Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar. Proverbs 30:5-6

Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. Proverbs 13:13

The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand forever. Isaiah 40:8

We see that these five passages set God’s Word apart from the writings of men, by the fact that God’s words are “pure,” “a lamp and light,” and are “eternal.” If you despise the Word by rejecting or altering it you will be destroyed. What man can claim this about his writings? Not one!
And furthermore, when reading the Old Testament there is no mistaking that God is speaking to man. Beginning in Genesis 1:3 you have the phrase “And God said.” or the similar phrase “And the Lord said.” Exodus 32:9. In addition, you have God speaking using the familiar terminology “Thus saith the Lord” or “saith the Lord” in places such as Genesis 22:16; Exodus 5:1; all the way to Malachi 1:2. In the prophets we read passages like “And say, Here ye the word of the Lord” Jeremiah 19:3. There are many variations of these above phrases. In fact, there are many hundreds of Old Testament passages like this, which establish the divine authenticity of the Old Testament.
How does the New Testament view the Old? For the remainder of this study we will see a consistent New Testament testimony.

Consider the importance of the following New Testament verse:

 These were more noble minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Acts 17:11

This should be the practice of all believers. The believers in Berea used the Scriptures as a test for the truth or falsity of a given message and are commended for this practice. In this particular instance, the Bereans were commended for examining even the Apostle Paul’s message. Surely, this gives the individual Christian the basis for questioning church doctrine if not established Biblically. In regards to the above passage, it should be noted that this verse from Acts 17:11 deals primarily with the Old Testament Scriptures, since at this stage in redemptive history the New Testament was in the process of being given and complied. Because of this, we can infer that the Old Testament is the Word of God. It was the Old Testament that was searched by the Bereans to see if Paul’s message was true.

Consider the words of Christ himself when speaking of the Old Testament Scriptures:

 …the Scripture cannot be broken. John 10:35

This passage speaks directly of the Old Testament but goes beyond them and refers to the New Testament as well. If the Scriptures “cannot be broken,” then we are to bind ourselves to its teaching. Unquestionably, according to our Lord here in John’s gospel the Scriptures are set forth as the highest court of appeal.

How did the Old Testament prophecy of Scripture come?

The Apostle Peter teaches that the Scriptures came from God as the Spirit of God moved holy men to speak:

Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. II Peter 1:20,21

In this passage, Peter clearly sets the Old Testament apart from human writings. The apostle Paul says the same thing when he tells us that it was the “oracles” or the very Word of God, which was committed to the Jewish people in the Old Testament. Consider Paul’s germane teaching:

Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. Romans 3:2

We also find that the word translated “oracles” occurs in the New Testament several more times. For example, in Acts 7:38, Hebrews 5:12, and 1 Peter 4:11 we see “oracles” mentioned. These examples are all referring to the Scriptures as being that which was spoken by God.

In the next passage from Luke, Jesus is referring to the Old Testament Scriptures. How did Christ view these Scriptures? To begin with, Jesus establishes His identity from the Scriptures. And secondly, He did not believe any portions of Scripture had disappeared or existed in some separate body of oral traditions as evidenced by the phrase “in all the Scriptures.”

Christ appealing to an objective body of writings:

 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:27

Along this same line, after Jesus quotes the prophet Isaiah in Luke 4:18,19 He says:

And he began to say unto them, This day is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears. Luke 4:21

Not only does Christ identify Isaiah’s writing as Scripture he goes on later in Luke 16:30,31 to show the importance of Scriptural testimony as over against even a miracle such as someone returning from the dead. This is significant because it sets forth the Scriptures as more important than experience.

Consider another important passage from Luke:

 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets, let them hear them. Luke 16:29

This passage reinforces the authority of the Old Testament, because Moses and the prophets spoke the Word of God with finality and we are told to “hear them.” At this point because of the relevance of the above passage it would be good to note the necessity of using the Scriptures to interpret experience. This is of the utmost importance. Many people use experience and emotions or feelings to interpret the Bible without even realizing it.

The careful reader of God’s Word should use the grammar and historical context when interpreting the Scriptures. You should not come to the text with preconceived ideas that may color your interpretation. People whom claim to have had spiritual experiences often fall into the trap of allowing the experience to influence their understanding of a particular text of Scripture. The experience in effect governs the interpretation the Scripture and inevitably leads to error.

We see more of Christ’s view of Scripture in the gospel of John: “Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God” 5:18. In this passage Jesus responds to the Jew’s attempt to kill him because of His claim of Deity by appealing to the Old Testament Scripture again: “For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” John 5:46,47.

The crux of Christ’s argument is an admonition to search the Old Testament Scriptures, which further establishes their credibility and authority. Hopefully this important affirmation by the Saviour concerning the authority of the Old Testament Scripture is not overlooked.

It is significant to see how Jesus makes this connection:

 Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. John 5:39

In this passage from John, Jesus tells the disciples about one of the most important testimonies of the Scriptures, namely, how His person and work are inseparably connected to the Scriptures. More will be said later on the importance of this.

We should note how God speaking in and through the Scriptures, directs His people to study the Scriptures in order to gain patience, comfort, and hope. The apostle Paul gives the believer assurance by clearly referring to the Old Testament Scriptures as the place to obtain these very things.

Consider this statement of the apostle Paul, which confirms this:

 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience

and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Romans 15:4

It should be established beyond any doubt that the New Testament consistently calls the Old Testament the Scriptures or in other words, the Word of God. Another issue that needs to be addressed is whether Old Testament people of God had possession of the Scriptures in a identifiable or recognizable form. It should be noted that the Scriptures were read and studied in the synagogues of ancient Israel. The people of Israel were to commit God’s Word to memory and teach it to their children and write them on the door-posts of their houses. This command of God has tremendous implications in the life of every day believers.

Consider God’s Command:

 And these words, which I commanded thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. Deuteronomy 6:6-9

This verse shows us that there was a daily ongoing reading and teaching of the Scriptures, which created a deep respect in Israel for the Word of God. There was a reverence for God’s Word in Israel. In fact, Israel has been known as “people of the book.” As God spoke in the Old Testament, these words were recorded and faithfully transcribed to preserve this Word for proceeding generations. This preservation is evidenced by the fact that the Scriptures were read in the synagogues of Israel. Christ himself read and taught the Word in the synagogues. Luke 4:16-21

The astute reader will notice that Jesus “closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister.” Jesus was demonstrating that Israel had the Word of God in written form. Israel did not just have fragments of God’s Word; they had a recognizable body of writing. So it is not surprising in Luke’s gospel we see clear indication for the Old Testament authoritative books, or the canon of Scripture that existed in Christ’s day:

And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Luke 24:44

This verse refers to the three sections of the Old Testament canon. The Old Testament canon consisted of the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings in which the Psalms was a part. There was clearly, a distinguishable structure and list of authoritative books in the Old Testament at this point in redemptive history.

In the following passage we find more proof that establishes a distinguishable written canon of Scripture in Christ’s day:

 That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation. From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, it shall be required of this generation. Luke 11:50,51

This passage sets the time frame for Old Testament prophetic revelation between the death of Abel in Genesis 4:8 and Zechariah’s death. The death of Zechariah is recorded in II Chronicles 24:20,21. At first sight this seems to present a problem because of the order of our modern Bibles. It would seem to exclude any Old Testament books following II Chronicles. In Christ’s day the canon of the Old Testament had the book of Chronicles, which was not then divided, placed out of historical order in the Jewish canon and was found after Ezra and Nehemiah, thus making it the last book of the Jewish canon. So according to this order, Zecharias was the last sufferer at the hands of the Old Testament religious apostates.

The testimony of the Scriptures stands sure. That testimony is that the Old Testament is the Word of God. It can be said with certainty; there was indeed a distinguishable Old Testament written canon of Scripture in Christ’s day. The importance of a recognizable written canon of Scripture possessed by the Old Testament people of God cannot be underestimated in its importance. An objective body of canonical writings is far superior to an undetermined fluctuating oral tradition, or dubious so-called additional books of revelation.

Hopefully, those who have attempted to cast doubt on the Scriptural canon and its binding authority so that they can attempt to establish new revelations allegedly found in additional books previously missing or a secondary sources of divine revelation, such as an alleged body of “sacred tradition” will not miss this. Christ fully accepted the canon as it stood in His day, on that account of His Words “the Scripture cannot be broken.” John 10:35

In conclusion, to doubt the divine authenticity of the Old Testament is to doubt Christ. The Old Testament people of God knew that they possessed the Word of God, and consequently, were careful in handling the texts of Scripture. The New Testament people of God were no less careful. There is no indication that the Word of God mentioned in this study was anything other than the Scriptures, which are recorded in our Bibles.

This is why we declare:

 He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the Word that I have spoken, the same [Christ’s Word] shall judge him in the last day. John 12:48

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Toxins, Free Radicals and Antioxidants

It is a frightening fact that we live in a toxic environment! No matter where we live or how careful we are, it is very difficult to escape or avoid environmental toxins. Why? Toxins are in the air we breathe, the food we eat and in the water we drink. Particularly troubling are the high levels of pesticides in our homes, and food supply that are substantially higher than levels we are exposed to in an open-air environment. To make matters worse, unless we have superior water filters in our homes, we are being exposed to many additional toxins even including prescription medicines that are flushed down toilets and then make it into the city water supply and then into our homes.

In fact, an Associated Press investigation shows that millions of Americans have been exposed to a huge array of pharmaceuticals drugs. These include antibiotics, anti-convulsants, mood stabilizers, sex hormones that have been found in the drinking water supplies that come into our homes. To be sure, these are small amounts that make into our home drinking water. But how much does it take to adversely affect us and begin to accelerate cellular damage and other problems?

What are Free Radicals and Should We be Alarmed?

Free radicals are unstable chemicals formed in the body during metabolism (a biological process) or exposure to environmental toxins such as pollutants that unfortunately are common in air, food and water. It should be noted that not all free radical activity is bad. For example, free radicals help our bodies to generate energy and fight infections, but when we have too many free radicals they can attack healthy cells causing them to age prematurely. Using the comparison of the activity of a rusting process is probably the best way to understand how free radicals damage our bodies.

If allowed to go unchecked, free radicals can cause damage to the body’s cells just like the process in which metal is broken down or disintegrates as it rusts. Likewise, some of these cells affected are those that line the arteries, fat cells in the blood, the immune cells and many more can all be subjected to this adverse free radical activity. Free radical damage (or oxidation) has been linked to the onset of every degenerative disease known, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, cataracts and even the very aging process itself. Why is this so?

Free radical damage changes or mutates the body’s DeoxyriboNucleic Acid (DNA) and RiboNucleic Acid (RNA) cellular blueprint coding by pairing with electrons in the DNA chains, ultimately leading to cellular electronic discombobulation or imbalance. This resulting confusion of the DNA and RNA blueprint coding or pairing will occur as mutated cells reproduce abnormally. This happens because of the subsequent cellular miss-communication in our bodies. In some cases, excess free radical damage can cause DNA messages to accelerate the cell division process into a state of disarray or confusion whereby the DNA is unable to withstand the rate of oxidation that then causes cellular retrogression. It is believed that this cellular break down or degeneration leads to the on-set of many diseases and as noted in the aging process itself. A real concern is that at the same time as the acceleration of free radical damage, our intake of antioxidants (which can inhibit this damage) is decreasing.

What are Antioxidants and What can be Done?

The book titled the Antioxidant Miracle by Lester Packer and Carol Colman is a excellent place to start in a search for solutions to the above mentioned problems. This is the first popular book to reveal the full range of the healthful benefits of antioxidants, which have been described as “nature’s secret weapon.” This ground breaking book unveils the amazing ability of antioxidants to help in the battle against free radical damage. The Antioxidant Miracle show how the combination of Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Lipoic Acid, Co Q10, and Glutathione (what some now believe to be the body’s master antioxidant) when taken together in the proper amounts allow the body to battle free radical damage far more effectively than when each of these supplements are taken individually. A nutritional synergy of activity is superior to the independent activity of isolated nutrients. A word of caution: it is thought that too many or the wrong combination of antioxidants can lead to the nutrients canceling themselves out or having a negative affect. You don’t want to mega dose with ever antioxidants you can find.

Exactly how do Antioxidants Work?

An antioxidant is a molecule capable of inhibiting the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that transfers electrons from a substance to an oxidizing agent. Oxidation produces free radicals. Then, these radicals it is believed can start chain reactions that cause cellular damage. Antioxidants terminate these chain reactions by removing the free radicals that cause or inhibit other oxidation reactions. Antioxidants can and do act to reduce or slow down the oxidation process. Antioxidants then are powerful agents for good in our bodies.

How do we Get Them?

Antioxidants are nutrients that occur naturally in our food which can prevent or slow down oxidative damage to our bodies. Antioxidants are also widely used as ingredients in dietary supplements and have been investigated for the prevention of diseases such as cancer, coronary heart disease and even slowing down the aging process. Thankfully, there is another class of helpful nutrients, called phytonutrients, which come from plant sources. Among other numerous benefits, phytonutrients also act as antioxidants and help form the body’s defense against free radical damage to cells. Phytonutrients can be absorbed directly from our food supply intake or be obtained in many different dietary supplements.

In summary; nutritional science is showing that antioxidants act as free radical scavengers and prevent and repair damage done by the free radicals. Any nutritional agent that can inhibit and also repair oxidative damage is good thing and should be in our arsenal of nutritional defense.

Why Should We Use Supplements?

Green harvesting and soil depletion are factors that prevent us from getting healthy, nutrient rich plants in our food supply. In addition, consider the complexity how our bodies work and why we need a constant source of good nutritional intake.

To start, our stomach lining is replaced every few days or so. Our bones are replaced every 7 to 10 years. Other bodily organ cells are replaced much quicker than our bones. In the case of our red blood cells, they are replaced every 120 days. Without the correct nutrient intake in our diets every day, our body’s systems can become compromised by cellular structure and function problems during the cellular formation process. This largely due to inadequate nutritional intake. The raw materials that make up our cells are nutritional building blocks.

It is amazing that every second, 2 million red blood cells are replaced in our bodies. If the correct complement of nutrients is not available in our body at that very second when new cells are formed then those cells can be made incorrectly. This may lead to the further malfunction of our bodies because the structure and function of our cells will not normal due to lack of the nutrient raw materials that our bodies require on demand for optimal cellular formation. Our blood supply should be saturated with the whole range of required or essential nutrients for the optimal cellular structure formation process. If the cellular structure is normal, then the cells will function correctly. This is a major goal of nutritional supplementation and good eating practices.

Since our food chain is depleted of many of the essential nutrients required for proper cellular organ function. And, because of the ongoing exposure to toxins and resulting free radical oxidative damage, we need to ensure that we have the complete range of essential nutrients in our bodies at the time new cells are formed. It seems prudent therefore to investigate which are the most important supplements for our nutritional needs that we can obtain. Antioxidants have been show in this brief article to be of utmost importance because of their ability to inhibit and even repair free radical damage. Additionally, there are other categories of nutrients that cannot be ignored.

Categories of Important Nutrients:

Antioxidants (Repair and Prevent Free Radical Damage)
Monosaccharides (Plant Sugars or Carbohydrates for Cellular Communication)
Phytosterols (Plant Hormones for Hormonal Support)
Vitamins and Minerals (Immune System Support)
Phytochemicals (Antioxidant Support, Enzyme Boosting Activity and Cellular Nutrition)
Fatty Acids (Good Fats, Cellular Fuel Source)
Amino Acids (Proteins Building Blocks)

The nutrients in the above categories can be found in the required amounts in many dietary supplements. See my article titled: Bio-Chemical Individuality: towards an understanding of which nutritional supplements should be taken and, how many and for how long. This article can be found online at: http://www.undergroundnotes.com/nutrition.htm

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God’s sovereign will in election and regeneration Volume 1 number 3

 

3. God’s sovereign will in election and regeneration Volume 1 number 3

For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. So then it is not

of him that willeth, nor him that runneth, but God that showeth mercy. Ro. 9:15,16

15)The all important aspect of verse 15 is that in support of the “God forbid” of verse 14 the mercy of God is not a matter of justice to those who are partakers of it but altogether of free and sovereign grace. This true whether the mercy be viewed as the theocratic election of Israel to covenant privileges or, in terms of what is the apostle’s particular interest, as the mercy that is unto salvation. Justice presupposes rightful claims, and mercy can be operative only where no claim of justice exists. Since mercy alone is the constraining consideration, the only explanation is God’s free and sovereign determination. He has mercy as he pleases. This is the emphasis of Exodus 33:19 and to this Paul makes his definitive appeal. Back of this thesis is the polemic of the apostle in the earlier part of the epistle for the principle of grace.

16)Can be regarded as the inference drawn from the Scripture quoted in verse 15 but it is preferably regarded as a statement of what is involved in the truth just asserted. The relation would be then as follows: if God has mercy on whomsoever he wills, “then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that hath mercy”. The emphasis falls here on the exclusion of man’s determination as the negative counterpart to God’s exercise of mercy. The first negation refers to human volition, the determination belonging to man’s will; the second refers to man’s active exertion (cf. 1 Cor. 9:24, 26; Gal. 2:2; 5:7; Heb. 12:1). The mercy of God is not an attainment gained by the most diligent labour to that end but a free bestowal of grace. No statement could be more antithetic to what accrues from claims of justice or as the awards of labour. 8

Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. Jas. 1:18

18)James designates God the Father of lights. By implication, however, he calls God our Father. Even though he omits the word Father, he employs the concept to give birth. Fatherhood is part of God’s nature. He is the Father of Jesus Christ and through him is our Father. a. “He chose to give us birth.” The first verb in this sentence is “chose”; because of its position it receives emphasis. “We have been born of his saving will (Jas. 1:18), and because God himself is the unalterable on (cf. Jas. 1:17), his gracious will cannot be overthrown.” We did not choose him; rather, he chose us and saved us from death. He gave us new life in Christ Jesus. In verse 15 James depicts sin giving birth to death. In verse 18 he states that God “chose to give us birth through the word of truth.” God is our creator but also our redeemer. In this verse the context favours the interpretation that God is our re-creator. He gives us life through spiritual birth. b. “Through the word of truth.” Paul uses this expression a number of time (11 Cor. 6:7; Eph. 1:13; Col. 1:5; 11 Tim. 2:15). It refers to the gospel, as Paul explains in his letter to the Colossians. When this gospel is proclaimed, God regenerates the sinner and reforms him into “new creation” (11 Cor. 5:17; Col. 3:10). Writes D. Edmond Hiebert, “There is no substitute for the proclamation of the gospel.” c. “That we might be a kind of firstfruits.” God created, regenerated and renewed us. We are his handiwork, his prize possession. James says that we are “a kind of firstfruits.”

In Old Testament times, the first fruits were holy and belonged to God: the first-born of man and of cattle, the first produce from the vineyard, orchard, and field (see, for instance, Exod. 23:16; 34:22; Lev. 19:23-25; Num. 15:20-21; Deut. 18:4). However, already in the Old Testament the prophets began to use the expression figuratively. Jeremiah writes, “Israel was holy to the LORD, the firstfruits of his harvest” (Jer. 2:3). And in the New Testament, Christians are God’s first fruits (Rom. 11:16; 16:5; 1 Cor. 16:15). In his epistle, James calls us “a kind of firstfruits of all [God] created.” We belong to the countless multitude (symbolically represented as the 144,000) who “were purchased from among men and offered as firstfruits to God and the Lamb” (Rev. 14:4).

What an honor! We are God’s first fruits and as such are holy. That is, God has chosen us from all his creatures to be holy and has dedicated us to himself. We belong to God. Therefore, let no one ever think that God can lead us astray. That is impossible, for he is holy and we, his first fruits, share his holiness. 9

Notes:

8.John Murray, The New International Commentary On The New Testament, The Epistle To The Romans, (Grand Rapids, Michigan, WM. B. Eerdmans, Reprinted 1982), Volume 11 p. 26.

9.Simon J. Kistemaker, New Testament Commentary, James and 1-111 John, (Grand Rapids, Michigan, Baker Book House, 1986), pp. 53, 54

Mr. Kettler is an ordained Presbyterian Elder and the owner of the http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read. He has worked in corporate America for over 30 years. Mr. Kettler can be contacted by e-mail at: jack@kettlerwellness.com

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Studies in the Sovereignty Of God Volume 1 Number 2

 

Studies in the Sovereignty Of God Volume 1 Number 2

 2. God, the Ruler or governor of the nations:

 For the kingdom is the LORD’s: and he is the governor among the nations. Ps. 22:28

 (28) The kingdom is Jehovah’s, that he may rule over the nations Some explain these words thus:- It is not to be wondered at if the Gentiles should be constrained to yield honor to God, by whom they were created, and by whose hand they are governed, although he has not entered into a covenant of life with them. But I reject this as a meagre and unsatisfactory interpretation. This passage, I have no doubt, agrees with many other prophecies which represent the throne of God as erected, on which Christ may sit to superintend and govern the world. Although, therefore, the providence of God is extended to the whole world, without any part of it being excepted; yet let us remember that he then, in very deed, exercises his authority, when having dispelled the darkness of ignorance, and diffused the light of his word, he appears conspicuous on his throne. We have such a description of his kingdom by the prophet Isaiah,

 “He shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people.” (Isa 2:4)

 Moreover, as God had not subdued the world to himself, prior to the time when those who before were unconquerable were subdued to a willing obedience by the preaching of the gospel, we may conclude that this conversion was effected only under the management and government of Christ. If it is objected, that the whole world has never yet been converted, the solution is easy. A comparison is here made between that remarkable period in which God suddenly became known every where, by the preaching of the gospel, and the ancient dispensation, when he kept the knowledge of himself shut up within the limits of Judea. Christ, we know, penetrated with amazing speed, from the east to the west, like the lightning’s flash, in order to bring into the Church the Gentiles from all parts of the world. 5

 For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down, and setteth up another. Ps. 75:6,7

 6) There is a God, and a providence, and things happen not by chance. Though deliverance be hopeless from all points of the compass, yet God can work it for his people; and though judgment come neither from the rising or the setting of the sun, nor from wilderness of mountains, yet come it will, for the Lord reigneth. Men forget that all things are ordained in heaven; they see but the human force, and carnal passion, but the unseen Lord is more real far than these. He is at work behind and within the cloud. The foolish dream that he is not, but he is near even now, and on the way to bring in his hand that cup of spiced wine of vengeance, one draught of which shall staggger all his foes.

7) Even now he is actually judging. His seat is not vacant; his authority is not abdicated; the Lord reigneth evermore. Empires rise and fall at his bidding. A dungeon here, and there a throne, his will assigns. Assyria yields to Babylon, and Babylon to the Medes. Kings are but puppets in his hand; they serve his purpose when they rise and when they fall. A certain author has issued a work called “Historic Ninepins,” a fit name of scorn for all the great ones of the earth. God only is; all power belongs to him; all else is shadow, coming and going, unsubstantial, misty, dream-like. 6

 The King’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whitheroever he will. Prov. 21:1

 1) And indeed Scripture witness is abundant. Abimelech’s heart was in the hand of the Lord for good. Pharaoh’s heart was turned towards Joseph. The Babylonians monarch showed kindness to Daniel and his captive brethren. The Persian monarchs countenanced and assisted in the building of the temple. The hearts of wicked kings are alike in the hand of the Lord; yet he hath no part in their wickedness. The hatred of Pharaoh; the ambition of Sennacherib and Nebuchadnezzar, were his instruments for his own purposes. Ahab’s murderous heart was restrained, and even made to accomplish the downfall of Baal. The counsels of the kings of the earth against Christ were under Divine control. Thus does the wrath of man praise him; and the remainder he restrains. Thus an Almighty agency is visible by its effects in the minutest affairs. 7

 Notes:

 5. John Calvin, Calvin’s Commentaries, (Grand Rapids, Michigan, Baker Book House Reprinted 1979), p. 385, 386.

6. Charles Haddon Spurgeon, The Treasury of David (Nashville, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1984), p. 294, 295

7. Charles Bridges, Proverbs, The Geneva Series of Commentaries, (Carlisle, Pennsylvania, The Banner of Truth Trust, Reprinted 1983), p. 364, 365.

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Studies in the Sovereignty Of God Volume 1 Number 1

 

Studies in the Sovereignty Of God Volume 1 Number 1

In this section we will look at numerous scriptures that prove that God is sovereign.

I. The Sovereign Will of God:

A. The Divine Sovereign Will of God over His creation. We can see in the following passages God’s sovereignty in the preservation of His creation.

Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth; in the

seas, and all deep places. Ps. 135:6

Verse 6) Whatsoever the LORD pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places. His will is carried out throughout all space. The king’s warrant runs in every portion of the universe. The heathen divided the great domain; but Jupiter does not rule in heaven, nor Neptune on the sea, nor Pluto in the lower regions; Jehovah rules over all. His decree is not defeated, his purpose is not frustrated: in no one point is his good pleasure set aside. The word “whatsoever” is of the widest range and includes all things, and the four words of place which are mentioned comprehend all space; therefore the declaration of the text knows neither limit nor exception. Jehovah works his will: he pleases to do, and he performs the deed. None can stay his hand. How different this from the gods whom the heathen fabled to be subject to all the disappointments, failures, and passions of men! How contrary even to those so called Christian conceptions of God which subordinate him to the will of man, and make his eternal purposes the football of human caprice. Our theology teaches us no such degrading notions of the Eternal as that he can be baffled by man. “His purpose shall stand, and he will do all his pleasure.” No region is too high, no abyss too deep, no land too distant, no sea too wide for his omnipotence: his divine pleasure travels post over all the realm of nature, and his behests are obeyed. 1

O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD.

Behold, as the clay is in the potter’s hand, so are ye in my hand, O

house of Israel. Jeremiah. 18:6

6) Refuting the Jews’ reliance on their external privileges as God’s elect people, as if God could never cast them off. But if the potter, a mere creature, has power to throw away a marred vessel and raise up other clay from the ground, a fortiori God, the Creator, can cast away the people who prove unfaithful to His election and can raise others in their stead (compare Isa 45:9; 64:8; Ro 9:20, 21). It is curious that the potter’s field should have been the purchase made with the price of Judas’ treachery (Mt 27:9, 10: a potter’s vessel dashed to pieces, compare Ps 2:8, 9; Re 2:27), because of its failing to answer the maker’s design, being the very image to depict God’s sovereign power to give reprobates to destruction, not by caprice, but in the exercise of His righteous judgment. Matthew quotes Zechariah’s words (Zec 11:12, 13) as Jeremiah’s because the latter (Jer 18:1-19:15) was the source from which the former derived his summary in Zec 11:12, 13 [Hengstenberg]. 2

John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given

him from heaven. John 3:27

Well saith John, I see a man can receive (that is, perceive) nothing, except it be given him from heaven. The labour of ministers if all lost labour, unless the grace of God make it effectual. Men do not understand that which is made most plain, nor believe that which is made most evident, unless it be given them from heaven to understand and believe it. 3

Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou

hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. Rev. 4:11

11) All the praises, homages, and acknowledgments of all the creatures is thy due; as thou art he who gavest the first being to all creatures, and therefore gavest it them, that they might praise, honour, serve and obey thee. 4

Notes:

1. Charles Haddon Spurgeon, The Treasury of David (Nashville, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1984), p. 193.

2. Jamieson,Fausset and Brown, Commentary on the Whole Bible, (Grand Rapids, Michigan, Zondervan, 1977) p. 618.

3. Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible, (Hendrickson Publishers, Inc, Fourth printing 1985) p. 1932.

4. Matthew Poole’s Commentary on the Holy Bible, (Peabody, Massachusetts, Hendrickson Publishers, 1985) p. 961

Mr. Kettler is an ordained Presbyterian Elder and the owner of the http://www.Undergroundnotes.com web site where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read. He has worked in corporate America for over 30 years. Mr. Kettler can be contacted by e-mail at: jack@kettlerwellness.com

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Bio-Chemical Nutritional Individuality Part 6

Essential Nutritional Categories: towards an understanding of which nutritional supplements should be taken, how many and for how long. Part Six

Essential Enzymes and human needs:

First, an enzyme is a protein that catalyzes or speeds up, a chemical reaction in the body. Enzymes are digestive agents that break down food particles into molecules that can then be absorbed through the intestinal walls and into the blood stream.

Secondly, enzymes require companions or helper molecules in order to operate. They are called co-factors. A co-factor is a substance that needs to be present with the enzyme for a certain reaction to take place. The term co-factor can refer to either an inorganic molecule that works with enzymes or organic molecules. It should be noted that some enzymes specifically require organic molecules (vitamins) to function correctly and others require inorganic molecules (minerals) to function properly. They are both called co-factors because they help carry pieces of molecules to different places in the body via the blood stream.

If the companion molecule is an organic vitamin then the companion is called a co-enzyme. The word co-enzyme refers to an organic molecule or a vitamin. A co-enzyme is a functional and necessary part of an enzyme.

Digestive enzymes come from food sources such as sprouts, papaya, pineapples, avocados, bananas and mangos. Enzymes are manufactured internally in our bodies by the digestive system which secretes them into the saliva, stomach, pancreas and intestines.

There are six main divisions or groups of enzymes. Within each class of enzymes there are many more.

The Six Groups:

  • Hydrolases is needed to break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fat molecules into their simplest forms
  • Isomerase breaks down chemical groups within molecules. Note: this enzyme is needed to help attach galactose (a monosaccharide) to the bodily cells
  • Ligases brings about the unification of two different molecules
  • Lyases splits the double bonds between atoms within certain chemical groups
  • Oxidoreductases facilitates oxidation and reduction within a wide range of biological processes
  • Trasnserases as the name implies, transfers chemical groups from one molecule to another

What happens if you are deficient in one or more critical enzymes? What if the necessary co-factors are not present? Or, what if the enzyme is missing the needed co-enzyme? Enzyme deficiency is known to cause heart problems, joint pain, obesity, and many other health problems because of the nutritional loss due to this deficiency. The importance of essential enzymes activity has been seriously overlooked in the field of nutritional science. There are a number of good enzymes supplements available in the marketplace.

In conclusion, hopefully, the information supplied above will help the reader with some directions when trying to answer the question regarding the right supplements and food sources along with how much of each particular supplement is needed by the body to feed or supply its necessary nutritional needs.

Unfortunately, there are no easy answers to each individual’s unique requirements. It would be wonderful if there was a nutritional body scanner that could answer this question. The doctor could then tell you if you needed extra vitamin B or more amino acids. Short of waiting for this machine to be invented, it seems prudent to adhere to a well balanced diet consisting of foods as close to their raw state as possible. In addition, maintaining a regime of essential nutrients and a proper exercise program, coupled with plenty of rest, drinking good clean water and breathing in clean air will help in developing a healthy active lifestyle.

Again, it needs to be asked, what happens if you are deficient in one or more of the essential monosaccharides, amino acids, vital dietary enzymes or vitamins and minerals? Will the glycosylation or other metabolic processes break down if an individual is lacking in their unique required nutritional needs?

Unless there are special factors that require a doctor’s analysis and recommendation, it is important to take enough of a supplement and take them long enough. Just like the glycosylation process which is ongoing, all cells need vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids and enzymes supplied in the diet or by supplementation to live. This is an ongoing, life long sustaining process. In other words, you need to nourish or feed your body.

Nutritional supplements are not drugs. We have to think of them differently.  If we approach nutrition like drugs we will be looking for an overnight quick fix. Nourishing our bodies through proper diet and nutritional supplementation is completely different. It is a life style or way of life. Eating is necessary to live. It has been said “we are what we eat.” We need to evaluate if what we are eating is truly nourishment and not simply empty calories devoid of nutritional content.

And finally, some people ask when they would be able to stop taking a supplement. This question is a tip off that the individual is approaching a nutritional supplement like a drug. To make a point; what happens if you are deficient in one or more of the essential vitamins and minerals? Beriberi, pellagra, rickets and scurvy are well know nutritional deficiencies. If you had the symptoms of scurvy (a vitamin C deficiency) would you take a vitamin C supplement until the symptoms disappeared and then stop or make sure you are continuing to get enough vitamin C through your diet or a supplement for the rest of your life? The answer should be obvious.

In review, one of the ways the structure and function of cells are determined is by the nature of nutrition supplied into the body. Nutrition is the raw material that goes into the ongoing creation of new cellular structures. For this process to happen correctly you need to have vital nutrition in your body. Nutrition when ingested in the body is broken down into micronutrients which become the building blocks or parts used in the making of the cells in your body.

All of the recognized groups of nutrition are vital for improving cellular structure and function by supporting the physiological functions of repair, regeneration, and other immune defense mechanisms of the body. What I am saying is that the body repairs itself and nutrition provides the molecules necessary to accomplish this. When this happens, these are not a drug effects, it is normal physiology, in other words the biochemistry of the body is being changed nutritionally and because of this I am not claiming that nutritional products treat cure, or mitigate disease. In short, when the body has the correct nutrition supplied the structure of the new cells will normal and they will function correctly.

Nutrition is essential! You will not always feel (drug paradigm thinking) something from the supplementation of a nutrient for it to be supplying critically needed raw material for your body’s metabolism processes. Don’t short change yourself!  Take charge of your health, live a healthy life style, nourish yourself with the best foods and find the best supplements on God’s green earth to support your body by giving it the tools needed to repair and correct it-self! In other words, give your body a fighting chance! Start discovering the wonderful world within you today. Support the immune, endocrine, digestive, and elimination systems of your body and don’t let health issues get the upper hand. Be proactive when it comes to your health!

To Your Health,

Jack Kettler

Certified Wellness Consultant (DSHEA Certified) (Diplomat in Nutritional Education and Health)

Extended Bio

Mr. Kettler is an ordained Presbyterian Elder and the owner of Undergroundnotes.com where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read. He has worked in corporate America for over 30 years and is now realizing his dreams as a successful home business entrepreneur. Permission is hereby granted to reprint this article as long as my web site is retained in the biographical information. Mr. Kettler can be contacted by e-mail at: jack@kettlerwellness.com

Disclaimer: The information in this article should not be considered a substitute for a doctor’s care or advice.

Notes:

  1. Journal of the American Medical Association, Vitamins for Chronic Disease Prevention in Adults, JAMA 2002; 287:3116
  2. Roger J. Williams, Biochemical Individuality, (New Canaan, Connecticut, Keats Publishing, Reprint 1998) p. 189.
  3. Williams, p. 189.
  4. Ibid, p. 190.
  5. Ibid, p. 184.
  6.  Beth M. Ley, Colostrum & Lactoferrin, (Detroit Lakes, MN, BL Publications, 2000) pp. 45, 46.

Recommended Reading:

Roger J. Williams, Biochemical Individuality, (New Canaan, Connecticut, Keats Publishing Reprint 1998).

Roger J. Williams, The Wonderful World Within You, (Wichita, Kansas, Bio Communications Press, Revised edition republished 1998).

Roger J. Williams, Nutrition Against Disease, (New York, Pitman Publishing Corporation, 1971).

Roger J. Williams, Physicians Handbook Of nutritional Science, (Springfield, Illinois, Thomas Books 1975).

Anthony J. Cichoke, The Complete Book Of Enzyme Therapy, (New York, Avery, 1999).

Robert Ronzio, The Encyclopedia of nutrition and Good Health, (New York. Facts On File Inc., 2003).

Beth M. Ley, Colostrum & Lactoferrin, (Detroit Lakes, MN, BL Publications, 2000).

Lester Packer and Carol Colman, The Antioxidant Miracle, (New York, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1999).

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Bio-Chemical Nutritional Individuality Part 5

Essential Nutritional Categories: towards an understanding of which nutritional supplements should be taken, how many and for how long. Part Five.

Phytoestrogens, the most important Phytohormones:

Phytoestrogens are compounds that occur naturally in plants and, under certain circumstances, can have actions like human estrogen. Phytoestrogens are commonly found in foods such as beans, cabbage, soybeans and grain. These nutrients help support communication among the body’s organs. They have been shown to support the body’s wellbeing against heart problems and weak immune systems.

  • Saponins; the most important being diosgenin which comes from the wild yam root of the Dioscrea plant.
  • Isoflavones are found abundantly in legumes or beans
  • Lignins are found in seeds, particularly in flax seed

The Best Known Antioxidants:

Antioxidants are involved in the prevention of cellular damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are atoms with an abnormal number of electrons and can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. They can do immense damage when they react with important cellular machinery such as DNA, or the cell coverings. The body’s defense system utilizes antioxidantsThe best currently known antioxidants are:

  • Quercetin which is both fat and water soluble. Helps reduce inflammation, lowers blood pressure and supports the heart and is found in apples, onions, parsley and red wine
  • Grape skin extract is water soluble and is known to protect the body against weak immune systems and heart problems
  • Green tea is water soluble and is known to help the liver and stop infections by supporting the immune system
  • Bush plum is water soluble and has the highest known concentration of vitamin C and helps the body repair tissue and the healing of wounds found in the Australian Bush Plum

Colostrum and Lactoferrin:

Colostrum or the mother’s first milk and is an important immune system builder. Consider how important lack of colostrum can be:

“If a calf, foal, puppy, etc. experiences difficulties at birth and is unable to nurse for 12 to 18 it will probably die. This is due to the re-absorption of immuno-factors by the mother.” 6

Lactoferrin is known to be a biologically active glycoprotein and helps activate the immune system and benefits intestinal cell health.

To Your Health,

Jack Kettler

Certified Wellness Consultant (DSHEA Certified) (Diplomat in Nutritional Education and Health)

Extended Bio

Mr. Kettler is an ordained Presbyterian Elder and the owner of Undergroundnotes.com where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read. He has worked in corporate America for over 30 years and is now realizing his dreams as a successful home business entrepreneur. Permission is hereby granted to reprint this article as long as my web site is retained in the biographical information. Mr. Kettler can be contacted by e-mail at: jack@kettlerwellness.com

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Bio-Chemical Nutritional Individuality Part 4

Essential Nutritional Categories: towards an understanding of which nutritional supplements should be taken, how many and for how long. Part Four

4. Vitamins and Minerals:

A vitamin is any group of organic substances which are essential for metabolism and for physiological growth and development. Vitamins also function as co-enzymes and are necessary for the proper functioning of an enzyme.

Vitamins and minerals are needed in the body for several important processes including:

  • The growth and repair of body tissues
  • As co-factors in enzyme metabolic reactions
  • For oxygen transfer and oxidative metabolism
  • Support immune function
  • Work as antioxidants
  • Vitamins regulate metabolic processes
  • Control cellular functions

Essential Vitamins:

  • Vitamin A plays a major role in the functioning and quality of the body’s immune system, especially the skin and mucus membranes of the body and can be found in green, yellow and orange vegetables, cantaloupes, apricots and sweet potatoes
  • Vitamin B and Complexes: B1, B2, B6, and B12. The B vitamins help the body to convert food to energy and they break up the proteins and fats that make the nervous system run efficiently. They also help to keep the eyes, hair and skin healthy and maintain mental functioning and support muscle tone and oral health. They can be found in bananas, meats, poultry, fish, potatoes, broccoli, grains, eggs and milk
  • Vitamin C plays an important role in the healing of wounds and the rebuilding of tissues and can be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, strawberries and green or red peppers and broccoli
  • Vitamin D helps to ensure calcium absorption and is especially important in bone development and strength and is supplied  from fish, liver, and egg yolks
  • Vitamin E has a role in  the repair of DNA and in the body’s natural immune system and is found in seeds, nuts, seafood, eggs and oils
  • Vitamin K is vital for blood clotting  and can be found in cabbage, cauliflower, spinach and other green leafy vegetables, cereals, soybeans

Essential Minerals:

Minerals are inorganic and are essential, acting as the necessary co-factors for many enzymes. Enzymes would not function without minerals. Minerals help the body organize the molecular construction of the cells and membrane. The fourteen minerals necessary for life are:

  • Phosphorus is best known for its role in the creation of bones and teeth  and is found in whole grain cereals, milk fish and vegetables
  • Copper acts as a cofactor for many enzymes and vitamins and is found in oysters and other shellfish, whole grains, beans, nuts, potatoes, and organ meats
  • Manganese works in the digestive system by breaking down foods through digestion into a form that the body can use and is found in whole grains, nuts, leafy vegetables, and teas
  • Selenium is especially important in the body’s battle against free radical damage and is found in brown rice, chicken, wheat, shrimp, sunflower seeds, tuna and eggs
  • Zinc serves many vital purposes since approximately one hundred enzymes rely on the presence of zinc to be effective in their specialized tasks  and is found in beef, pork, and lamb
  • Calcium is also important in the prevention of incapacitating bone problems, such as osteoporosis and is found in milk and milk products such as yogurt, cheese tofu, broccoli and orange juice
  • Iron promotes the important functioning of the body’s immune system, particularly in the production of the white blood cells which are essential to combating infection and numerous health issues and is found in red meats, seafood, and fish apricots and beans
  • Phosphorus has a role in the working of the body’s muscular system and is found in dairy products, egg yolks, meat, poultry, fish and legumes
  • Sodium has an important role in the circulatory system and is found in meats, nut, grains, fruits and vegetables
  • Iodine plays a role in the body’s basic metabolism levels and processes because of its influence on the thyroid’s activities and is found in salmon, tuna and seaweed
  • Potassium promotes the growth and health of cells, particularly through its importance in waste product removal and to enhance muscle control and is found in milk, yogurt, fruits and vegetables
  • Magnesium is required by more than 300 biochemical processes in the human body such as the body’s most fundamental structures and systems, from the bones to the heart and is found in spinach, almonds, barley and Brazil nuts
  • Choline is necessary for growth and nerve and kidney function and is found in lecithin, beef liver, beef heart, egg yolks, wheat germ, cauliflower, cucumber, peanuts
  • Molybdenum protects against tooth decay and is necessary for metabolism and is found in green beans, wheat germ and spinach

It is important to remember that any deficiency of an essential vitamin or mineral may result in the beginning of collapsing immune system.

To Your Health,

Jack Kettler

Certified Wellness Consultant (DSHEA Certified) (Diplomat in Nutritional Education and Health)

Extended Bio

Mr. Kettler is an ordained Presbyterian Elder and the owner of Undergroundnotes.com where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read. He has worked in corporate America for over 30 years and is now realizing his dreams as a successful home business entrepreneur. Permission is hereby granted to reprint this article as long as my web site is retained in the biographical information. Mr. Kettler can be contacted by e-mail at: jack@kettlerwellness.com

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Bio-Chemical Nutritional Individuality Part 3

Essential Nutritional Categories: towards an understanding of which nutritional supplements should be taken, how many and for how long. Part Three

2. Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs):

In biochemistry a fatty acid is a carboxylic acid or organic acid with a long aliphatic tail, either saturated or unsaturated. Most of the natural fatty acids have an even number of carbon atoms, because they are made up of acetate which has two carbon atoms.

  • Omega-3 or Alpha-Linolenic Acid (LNA) is an essential fatty acid (EFA), which means that it is essential to human health and cannot be manufactured by the body. For this reason, Omega 3 fatty acids must be obtained from food. Omega 3 fatty acids can be found in fish and certain plant oils.
  • Omega 6 or Linoleic Acid (LA) is an EFA and cannot be made by humans and is considered essential in the diet. Omega 6 is found in cereals, eggs, poultry, oils, whole-grain breads
  • Omega-9 or Oleic Acid is essential but technically not an EFA, because the human body can manufacture a limited amount, provided the essential LNA and LA EFAs are present. Oleic acid lowers heart attack risk and arteriosclerosis, and aids in prevention of numerous health issues. It is found in olive oil (virgin cold pressed), olives, avocados, almonds, peanuts, sesame oil, pecans, pistachio nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, etc.

It is important to maintain a balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6 in the diet as these two fatty acids work together to promote health. It should be noted that we get far more Omega 6 in our diets.

3. Amino Acids:

There are 22 known amino acids of which eight are essential. Amino acids have been called the “building blocks” of the body. They help in building cells and repairing tissue. In addition, they form antibodies to combat invading bacteria and viruses. They carry oxygen throughout the body and participate in muscle activity.

The eight essential are:

  • Isoleucine provides elements required for the manufacturing of essential biochemical components in the body, which are utilized for the production of energy and stimulants to the upper brain and helps one to be mentally more alert. They can be found in eggs, fish, lentils, poultry, beef, seeds, soy, wheat, almonds and dairy
  • Leucine also provide ingredients for the manufacturing of essential biochemical components in the body, which are utilized for the production of energy, stimulants to the upper brain and also helps one to be mentally alert. They can be found in cottage cheese, sesame seeds, peanuts, dry lentils, chicken, and fish
  • Lysine insures the adequate absorption of calcium and helps form collagen which makes up bone cartilage and connective tissues and aids in the production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes. They can be found in food sources such as green beans, lentils, soybean, spinach and amaranth
  • Methionine is a principle supplier of sulfur which prevents disorders of the hair, skin and nails. It helps lower cholesterol levels by increasing the liver’s production of lecithin, reduces liver fat and protects the kidneys. They are found in fish, whole grains, and dairy
  • Phenylalanine is used by the brain to produce Norepinephrine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells and the brain; keeps you awake and alert. It reduces hunger pains, functions as an antidepressant and improves the memory. This is found in dairy products, almonds, avocados, lima beans, peanuts, and seeds
  • Threonine is an important component of collagen and of enamel protein. It helps prevents fat build-up in the liver. It also helps the digestive intestinal tracts function more smoothly, assists metabolism assimilation. This is found in dairy products, beef, poultry, eggs, beans, nuts, and seeds
  • Tryptophan is a natural relaxant and helps ease insomnia by inducing normal sleep. It reduces anxiety and depression; helps in the treatment of migraine headaches. It is known to help reduce the risk of artery and heart spasms and works with Lysine in reducing cholesterol levels and is plentiful in chocolate, oats, bananas, dried dates, milk, cottage cheese, meat, fish, turkey and peanuts
  • Valine promotes mental vigor, muscle coordination and calms emotions and is found in dairy products, grain, meat, mushrooms, peanuts, and soy proteins

We get most of the amino acids from food. If we are lacking any of the essential ones, they must be supplied through supplementation. The others are non-essential, which means they can be manufactured by the body with proper nutritional intake. Remember that the adding of a polysaccharide (chain of sugars) to a polypeptide (chain of amino acids) is essential to make a glycoprotein. Monosaccharides and amino acids are without question vital for optimal health.

Amino Acid deficiency can be manifested as a weak immune system, fatigue, stomach acid or alkaline imbalance, dizziness and nausea, water retention, and infertility.

To Your Health,

Jack Kettler

Certified Wellness Consultant (DSHEA Certified) (Diplomat in Nutritional Education and Health)

Extended Bio

Mr. Kettler is an ordained Presbyterian Elder and the owner of Undergroundnotes.com where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read. He has worked in corporate America for over 30 years and is now realizing his dreams as a successful home business entrepreneur. Permission is hereby granted to reprint this article as long as my web site is retained in the biographical information. Mr. Kettler can be contacted by e-mail at: jack@kettlerwellness.com

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Bio-Chemical Nutritional Individuality Part 2

Essential Nutritional Categories: towards an understanding of which nutritional supplements should be taken, how many and for how long. Part Two

Let’s survey different categories of essential nutrition:

1. Monosaccharides:

What are they? Monosaccharides are natural plant sugars. Eight have been identified as essential to optimal cellular needs and are utilized by the body in the battle against health issues. Monosaccharides are the newest class of recognized essential nutrients.

Glycosylation can be described as the course of action which involves the essential monosaccharides and is the beginning and end of cellular health without exception! In fact, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Review, February 2003, “If you don’t have glycosylation, you don’t have life.” Glycosylation is the adding of a polysaccharide (chain of sugars) to a polypeptide (chain of amino acids) in order to make a glycoprotein. Each of the essential biologically active sugars are needed by the body to make specific glycoproteins which coat every cell surface in our body, enabling the immune system to function by creating the cellular antenna on each cell surface. These cell surface antennas allow the cells to communicate with each other using a unique cellular alphabet.

Because of the importance of the glycosylation process and the role monosaccharides play in this process, many doctors, health practitioners and nutritionists are now calling monosaccharide technology the “operating system” of the human body. This is why I have this category listed first.

The Eight Monosaccharides:

  • Glucose provides a potent fast-energy source, enhances memory and stimulates calcium absorption and can be found in many fruits and vegetables, sorghum, dates, raisins and pineapples
  • Galactose enhances wound healing, increases calcium absorption and triggers long-term memory formation and is found in milk
  • Mannose is vital to proper cellular function and can positively affect the body’s immune response to pathogens. Mannose may also have anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-lowering capabilities and can be found in seeds, plant saps, cacti and aloe
  • Fucose plays a vital role in developing a healthy immune response in infants and can be found in flaxseed, gum, algae and certain seaweeds
  • Xylose Like other essential saccharides, xylose helps fights microbial invaders such as fungus and bacteria and may also support weak immune systems. It has been featured in allergy nasal spray products due to its ability to discourage the binding of allergens to mucous membranes and can be found in husks of grains, such as wheat, rye oat and barley
  • N-acetylglucosamine can be very helpful for the proper maintenance of joints, and can reverse or prevent cartilage and joint damage and inflammation and is found in some seeds and plant saps
  • N-acetylgalactosamine plays an important role in promoting proper function of and communication between cells. There is evidence that it can help improve the immune system and is found in milk
  • N-acetylneuraminic acid can have a significantly healthy effect on the immune and nervous systems of the newborn and is found in milk

These eight monosaccharides have been identified in Harper’s Biochemistry, chapter 56, of the 1996 and following editions. Only two, glucose and galactose are common in the modern diet.

A combination of green harvesting, processing, over cooking of foods and different eating habits account for the loss of these vital nutrients from the modern diet. If lacking any of these necessary sugars, it is prudent to supplement the missing ones. There is an ongoing scholarly debate regarding a healthy individual’s body and its ability to manufacture the missing ones from the two still common in our diets.

In regards to glycosylation, it should be noted that some cells are replaced in the body on a daily basis. Others cells are replaced weekly, monthly and, in the case of bone cells, may take a year or more to be replaced with new ones. The glycosylation process is ongoing and does not happen overnight and has the utmost bearing on the question of how long someone should supplement.

It should be noted that it is impossible to know which cells will receive the necessary requirement of monosaccharides, or how many cells will get the monosaccharides they need. The cells that die are being replaced by cells, which also need to be glycosylated and you may or may not have sufficient monosaccharides available at that moment to get that job done.

Many glycoproteins have a short life of 10 days or less. Keeping your body supplied with an adequate amount of monosaccharides seems prudent to be used for new glycoprotein synthesis process. It is also important to note that monosaccharide absorption, which is the beginning of the glycosylation process, depends upon the necessary enzyme, vitamin and mineral co-factors being present. Having the necessary co-factors is of huge importance. In fact, if you do not have the necessary co-factors, the vital nutrients will simply pass through your body and be eliminated in the waste.

To Your Health,

Jack Kettler

Certified Wellness Consultant (DSHEA Certified) (Diplomat in Nutritional Education and Health)

Extended Bio

Mr. Kettler is an ordained Presbyterian Elder and the owner of Undergroundnotes.com where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read. He has worked in corporate America for over 30 years and is now realizing his dreams as a successful home business entrepreneur. Permission is hereby granted to reprint this article as long as my web site is retained in the biographical information. Mr. Kettler can be contacted by e-mail at: jack@kettlerwellness.com

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