NERVOUS SYSTEM

In this lesson we will be studying the following:

1) The anatomy of the nervous system.
2) The physiology of the nervous system.
3) The spiritual lessons of the nervous system.

Through eternity past God saw all the pain

That would come upon man by creating a brain
With a mind that could choose His Word to obey
Or lead into sin and go the wrong way
Only to think that his thoughts are all right
Not walking by faith but only by sight
Allowing his eyes to behold Satan’s deeds
Polluting his mind not realizing his needs
Of a mind that would stay on His word till the end
That would heal his tense nerves and help him to send
His thoughts towards heaven to help him to serve
By surrendering the will through a thought in the nerve.

Primary Lesson of the Nervous System: To teach us the role of angels and of man in the communication of
the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The brain is one of the most complex entities in the known universe. Within this three pound mass of jelly-like
tissue there exist over ten billion nerve cells, billions more nerve pathways, and a million trillion connections.
Often the brain is compared to a computer. However the organization of this remarkable organ is infinitely
more complex than any other computer system known. At best, it can be compared to a living computer.

Such a living computer would have to be able to change its circuits according to the problems to be solved, and,
in addition, respond to thousands or even millions of outside influences. Plus, it must be able to protect itself
from overloads, wear and tear, and even repair itself should injury result. It would have to learn to adapt in a
span of milliseconds. What is more remarkable though is it must develop circuits that would make it capable of
feelings. Not just rudimentary sensations, but be able to feel the deeper emotions that make us human. Also, it
would have to have a curiosity about its own inner workings. This computer must be able to control the entire
spectrum, and all the other systems of the body. Its feedback control system must be exact, all the while
computing a quadrillion other functions.

To fully understand all that we presently know about this remarkable organ would fill thousands of volumes.
What we don’t know however about this organ would fill more than the biggest library in the world.

Each minute neuron is a marvel in itself and is capable of storing millions of bits of information per day, no
wonder we will need an eternity in order to get the most out of its capabilities. Though it was built to last
forever, created with full expansion of growth in the knowledge and wisdom that God was going to bestow,
there was a determined effort to thrawt His plan. However in the end God will ultimately win and fulfil the
original plan that came through the tempters snares.

“Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto
the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the
serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the
garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. And the serpent said unto the
woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be
opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” Gen.3.1-5
In these hundred and twenty eight words we can get a profound depth of meaning and knowledge into the
workings of the human brain, and the origin of its degradation. To simply state the fall of man as a matter of
choosing an apple over God is at best beclouding the issues and distorting the truth.

In the previous chapter we see that after God made man, he tried him out, giving him the job of naming all the
animals, which thoughts originally came from God anyhow. That may seem like no great thing, but you try
naming thousands of animals in one day, it would wear the best of us out, plus every word had meaning attached
to it. Man was given the privilege of thinking the thoughts of God and sharing His mind. He had billions of
brain cells that were to be constantly filled with fresh and exalted views of God, an ongoing eternal development
of the brain was put into operation, as long as the man stayed true to the thoughts of God.

The brain had no corruption, no impure channels in which to run, for it knew no evil, nor any desires for evil
existing in him, all he knew was from what God told him and had no question to doubt his truthfulness.

Then came the serpent with his subtlety and introduced thoughts that were in conflict with those previously
stated by God, now a choice had to be made, one thought could only be retained the other must go.

“The brain is the capital of the body, the seat of all the nervous forces and of mental action. The nerves
proceeding from the brain control the body. By the brain nerves, mental impressions are conveyed to all the
nerves of the body as by telegraph wires; and they control the vital action of every part of the system. All the
organs of motion are governed by the communications they receive from the brain.” HL.193.

The normal body must accomplish a gigantic and enormously complex job in order to keep itself alive and
healthy. Each one of its billions of cells performs some activity that is a part of this function. Control of the
body’s billions of cells is accomplished mainly by two communication systems: the nervous system and the
endocrine system. Both systems transmit information form one part of the body to another, but they do it in
different ways. The nervous system transmits information very rapidly by nerve impulses conducted from one
area of the body to another. The endocrine system transmits information more slowly by chemicals secreted by
ductless glands into the bloodstream and circulated from the glands to other parts of the body. Nerve impulses
and hormones communicate information to body structures, increasing or decreasing their activities as needed
for healthy survival.

The nervous system is God’s communication system to man, and anything that dulls its fine sensibilities will to
some extent dull our spiritual perception.

1. THE ANATOMY OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

The organs of the nervous system as a whole include the brain and spinal cord, the numerous nerves of the body,
the specialized sense organs such as those found in the skin. The system as a whole consists of two principle
divisions called the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. The brain and spinal cord
occupy a mid-line or central location in the body and therefore are together called the central nervous system, or
CNS. Similarly, the usual designation for the nerves of the body is the peripheral nervous system, or PNS. Use
of the term peripheral is appropriate because nerves extend to outlying or peripheral parts of the body. There is
subdivision of the peripheral nervous system, called the automatic or involuntary functions (for example, the
heart rate, contractions of the stomach and the intestines, as well as the secretion of chemical compounds by
glands).

The central nervous system transmits messages directly from the brain via the spinal cord. On the inside of the
spinal cord is what is called gray matter, which contains cell bodies and unmyelinated fibers of neurons. The
spinal cord is where ascending and descending tracts or impulses travel through. This gray matter looks like
angels wings and it is the work of angels to send messages to and from heaven. The spinal cord passes through
the vertebra, which is like a ladder that leads to the throne room which is the holy place and most holy place in
your brain. Let’s take a look at what the ladder represents. “And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the
earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.” Gen
28.12. “Our saviour is the ladder which Jacob saw, whose base rested on the earth and whose topmost rounds
reached the highest heavens.

This shows the appointed method of salvation. If any of us are finally saved, it will be by clinging to Jesus as to
the rounds of a ladder.” 5 T 539. “And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see
heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” John 1.51. Just as the
angels of God ascend and descend upon the Son of man from heaven to earth, so too the spinal cord is
representative of angels ascending and descending upon the vertebra (Jacob’s ladder) which is likened to Jesus.

“Thus Jesus becomes the medium of communication between Heaven and our souls, and holy angels are sent to
minister unto us. And while these divine messengers are striving to lead sinners to plant their feet on the ladder
that extends from earth to Heaven, let us be co-laborer's with them, and urge all who will to climb the shining
way.” ST.1884-06-26.012

After spinal nerves exit from the spinal cord, they branch to form the many peripheral nerves of the trunk and
limbs. The peripheral nervous system includes all nervous tissue found outside our brain and spinal cord; that is
the peripheral nerves, their associated ganglia, and sensory receptors. The peripheral nervous system is divided
into the sensory (afferent) and motor (efferent) divisions. The peripheral nerve fibers are described as afferent if
they conduct impulses towards the CNS, efferent if they transmit impulses away from it. However, nearly all
peripheral nerves are mixed; that is they contain both types of fibers. Peripheral nerves are classified as cranial
nerves or spinal nerves in the brain, as also are there twenty - four elders around the throne in heaven,
(remember God’s throne is the brain) “And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty
elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odors, which are the
prayers of the saints.” Rev 5.8. Just as the cranial nerves are responsible for transmitting messages to your
brain, the twenty four elders transmit messages (prayers) to the Father in heaven. The peripheral nerves can be
compared to ministers, because they don’t have direct access to heaven (in person) as do angels, but they carry
messages from these heavenly messengers and communicate them to different parts of the body, (the church)
“And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preached among the Gentiles.”
Gal 2.2

“He who bears the great responsibility of ministering in word and doctrine should be a man of sound mind. His
habits of life of eating and drinking are to be pure, even as Daniel’s. Every worker connected with God in
sacred service is under bonds to be a pattern of piety in every phrase of his life, that God may make of him a
channel of communication to the church and to the world.” SW. 1901-01-15

The two types of cells found in the nervous system are called neurons (NOO-rons) or nerve cells and ganglia,
which are specialized connective tissue cells. Neurons conduct impulses, whereas ganglia support neurons.

2. FUNCTION

NEURONS: Each neuron consists of three parts; a main part called the neuron cell body, one or more
branching projections called dendrites (DEN-drites), and one elongated projection known as an axon. Dendrites
are the processes that transmit impulses towards the neuron, whereas axons send impulses away from the cell
body.

The three types of neurons are classified according to the direction in which they transmit impulses: sensory
neurons, motor neurons, and interneurons. Sensory neurons transmit impulses to the spinal cord and brain from
all parts of the body. Motor neurons transmit impulses in the opposite direction-away from the brain and spinal
cord. They do not conduct impulses into all parts of the body but only to two kinds of tissue-muscle and
glandular epithelial tissue. Interneurons conduct impulses from the sensory neurons to motor neurons. Motor
neurons are called efferent neurons, and interneurons are called connecting neurons.

“… The brain is the capital of the body, the seat of all the nervous forces and of mental action. The nerves
proceeding from the brain control the body. By the brain nerves, mental impressions are conveyed to all the
nerves of the body as by telegraph wires; and they control the vital action of every part of the system. All the
organs of motion are governed by the communication they receive from the brain.” 3 T.69

The brain contains approximately 10 billion nerve cells, and it is not difficult to think of the nervous system in
terms of computers. However, the human nervous system is in some ways more efficient than an electrontube
computer. It has been estimated that an electrontube computer would have to be the size of a New York
skyscraper to contain the “equipment” in the three pounds or so of human brain. It has been stated that each
brain neuron can receive 86 000 000 bits of information per day, and there is believed to be in the order of 100
000 000 000 neurons in the brain!!! However God has designed our brains so that only the most important
information comes to us on a conscious level, as God doesn’t want to overload us with too many thoughts at
once.

Originally man was endowed with a much greater capacity to think, remember, and reason, but as man has
degenerated in physical strength so too has he degenerated in mental strength also.

“Men sometimes flatter themselves that in this enlightened age they are superior in knowledge and talents to
those who lived before the flood; but those who think this do not rightly estimate the physical and mental
strength of that long-lived race. Growth was slow and firm. Men did not, as at the present time, flash into
maturity early, use up their vital forces, and only live out half their days. Their minds were of a higher order,
and were strong and clear. Had these men, with their rare powers to conceive and execute, devoted themselves
to the service of God, they would have made their Creator’s name a praise in the earth, and would have
answered the purpose for which He gave them being. But they failed to do this. Man corrupted his way on the
earth. There were many giants, men of great stature and strength, renowned for wisdom, skilful in devising the
most cunning and wonderful work; but in proportion to their skill and mental ability was their great guilt
because of unbridled iniquity. They were apostates from God, and were cruel and oppressive to those who were
not able to resist them.” ST 1884-11-27.

Neuron Structure: Although neurons may vary considerably in size and shape, they have certain features in
common. These include a cell body and nerve fibers, that conduct nerve impulses to or from the body.

The neuron cell body contains a mass of granular cytoplasm, a cell membrane, and various other organelles
usually found in cells. Inside the cell body, for example, are mitochondria, lysosomes, a Golgi apparatus, and a
network of fine threads called neuofibrils, which extend into the nerve fibers.

Near the center of the cell body there is a large, spherical nucleus with a conspicuous nucleolus. This nucleus,
however, does not undergo mitosis (process by which body cells divide to form two identical daughter cells)
after the nervous system is developed, and consequently, mature neurons seem to be incapable of reproduction.

Just as there is a nucleus in the center of the nerves, there is a spiritual nucleus that is at the center of the
messages that are relayed throughout the body. “For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus
Christ, and him crucified.” 1Cor.2.2. This is to be the heart of every message and sermon, Christ and Him
crucified.

VITAL FORCE: “God endowed man with so great vital force that he has withstood the accumulation of
disease brought upon the race in consequence of perverted habits, and has continued for six thousand years.
This fact of itself is enough to evidence to us the strength and electrical energy that God gave to man at his
creation. It took more than two thousand years of crime and indulgence of base passions to bring bodily disease
upon the race to any great extent. If Adam , at his creation, had not been endowed with twenty times as much
vital force as men now have, the race, with their present habits of living in violation of natural law, would have
become extinct. At the time of Christ’s first advent the race had degenerated so rapidly that an accumulation of
disease pressed upon that generation, bringing in a tide of woe and a weight of misery inexpressible.” MH.234.

SATAN’S ELECTRIC CURRENTS: “His agents still claim to cure disease. They attribute their power to
electricity, magnetism, or the so called “sympathetic remedies.” In truth, they are but channels for Satan’s
electric currents. By this means he casts his spell over the bodies and souls of men.” 5T.193.

Note: Sympathetic remedies include methods of false healing that work on the sympathetic nervous system,
such as acupuncture, reflexology, kinesiology, iridology, magnetic healing and any other healing modality that
manipulates the electric currents in the body that God created to be placed only under His direct control.

MIND HEALING:
We need not go to a worldly psychologist or counselor for mind healing, when they themselves have not the
mind of Christ

SPURIOUS MIND HEALING METHODS: “He (Satan) therefore transforms himself into an angel of light
and works upon the mind to allure from the only safe and right path. The sciences of phrenology, psychology,
and mesmerism are the channel through which he comes more directly to this generation and works with that
power which is to characterize his efforts near the close of probation.” 1T.290.

SUBMISSION TO GOD OR MIND OF SATAN: “Every soul that refuses to give himself to God is under the
control of another power. He is not his own. He may talk of freedom, but he is in the most abject slavery. He is
not allowed to see the beauty of truth, for his mind is under the control of Satan.” DA.466.

Only Jesus is the true healer of the mind, he alone has power to heal the afflicted soul, and any true Christian
counselor is only an agent used to lead people to put their trust in the mind of Christ, and not in any human
reasoning.

Any healing that Jesus accomplished had an influence upon the mind: “And they come to Jesus, and see him
that was possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind: and they
were afraid.” Mark.5.15 To have a right mind is to have Christ’s mind, to have one’s reasons restored, and
to have the thoughts of God.

It was the work of Christ to restore the mind back into the image of God, even with those who had the mind of
Satan. To receive His mind is to receive His Word, for they are both one and the same.

For those who have any mental disorders the remedy is not found in a spurious medicine it is found in the Word
of God. “He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.” Psa.107.20

MIND OVER MIND: “There is, however, a form of mind cure that is one of the most effective agencies for
evil. Through this so-called science, one mind is brought under the control of another so that the individuality of
the weaker is merged in that of the stronger mind. One person acts out the will of another. Thus it is claimed that
the tenor of the thoughts may be changed, that health-giving impulses may be imparted, and patients may be
enabled to resist and overcome disease.: MH.242.

FRONTAL LOBE
If you examine these hemispheres you will see that they can be roughly divided into anatomical pairs of lobes,
each with its own name. Those in front, called frontal lobes, are of considerable importance in humans in that
they allow us to learn and to restrain our “negative” emotions. You can remember the functions of the frontal
lobes by memorizing the “T’s” – tension, tact and tenacity of endeavor.

Most important are the last two “T’s” Tact allows us to engage in socially acceptable behavior. Recently
scientists have found that the major malfunction in children suffering from hyperactivity is that their frontal
lobes seem to be turned down. As a result, they have difficulty controlling their behavior; they act out
inappropriately. They also have difficulty with the last “T”, tenacity of endeavor, as they find it difficult to
focus their minds on one single task for any length of time. It is our ability to focus our attention on one task at
a time that allows us to learn.

So we see that the frontal lobes are very complicated and play a major role in our ability to function in a
complex world. The back edge of the frontal lobes contain two strips of cortex that are also very important.
They contain nerve cells that control movement on the opposite side of the body. The left hemisphere controls
movement of the right side of the body and vise versa. Actually it is much more complicated than that, but for
the sake of simplicity let us leave it there. Many of these “motor” neurons are quite large. They are called giant
cells of Betz.

BEFORE SATAN’S FALL: “Satan was once an honored angel in heaven, next to Christ. His countenance,
like those of the other angels, was mild and expressive of happiness. His forehead was high and broad, showing
great intelligence.” EW.145

AFTER THE FALL: “I was shown Satan as he once was, a happy, exalted angel. Then I was shown him as he
now is. He still bears a kingly form. His features are still noble, for he is an angel fallen. But the expression of
his countenance is full of anxiety, care, unhappiness, malice, hate, mischief, deceit, and every evil. That brow
which was once so noble, I particularly noticed. His forehead commenced from his eyes to

recede. I saw that he had so long bent himself to evil that every good quality was debased, and every evil trait
was developed.” EW.152.

“...THE FOREHEAD REPRESENTS THE INTELLECT,” GC88.691.

BEFORE THE FALL OF MAN: “Man came from the hand of God perfect in organization and beautiful in
form. All his faculties of mind and body were fully developed and harmoniously balanced. His nature was in
harmony with the will of God. His affections were pure; his appetites and passions were under the control of
reason. His mind was capable of comprehending divine things. He stood before his Maker in the strength of
manhood, the crowning glory of the creative work.” PJ.1902-02-01.

AFTER THE FALL: “In creating man, God gave him noble qualities. He endowed him with a well-balanced
mind, and made every power of his being harmonious. After the fall there was not given to man another set of
faculties. The powers given him before sin entered the world through Adam were high, and their aims holy; all
in perfect harmony with the divine mind. The fall did not create in man new faculties, energies, and passions; for
this would have been a reflection upon God. It was through disobedience to God's requirements that these
powers were perverted; the affections were misplaced, and turned from the high and holy purpose to a lower aim
and to meet a lower standard.” RH.1887-03-01.

THE SUPERIORITY OF THE ANTIDELUVIAN MINDS:

“Notwithstanding the wickedness of the antediluvian world, that age was not, as has often been supposed, an era
of ignorance and barbarism. The people were granted the opportunity of reaching a high standard of moral
and intellectual attainment. They possessed great physical and mental strength, and their advantages for
acquiring both religious and scientific knowledge were unrivaled. It is a mistake to suppose that because they
lived to a great age their minds matured late; their mental powers were early developed, and those who
cherished the fear of God and lived in harmony with His will continued to increase in knowledge and wisdom
throughout their life. Could illustrious scholars of our time be placed in contrast with men of the same age
who lived before the Flood, they would appear as greatly inferior in mental as in physical strength. As the
years of man have decreased, and his physical strength has diminished, so his mental capacities have
lessened. There are men who now apply themselves to study during a period of from twenty to fifty years, and
the world is filled with admiration of their attainments. But how limited are these acquirements in comparison
with those of men whose mental and physical powers were developing for centuries!”

“It is true that the people of modern times have the benefit of the attainments of their predecessors. The men of
masterly minds, who planned and studied and wrote, have left their work for those who follow. But even in this
respect, and so far as merely human knowledge is concerned, how much greater the advantages of the men of
that olden time! They had among them for hundreds of years him who was formed in God's image, whom the
Creator Himself pronounced "good"--the man whom God had instructed in all the wisdom pertaining to the
material world. Adam had learned from the Creator the history of creation; he himself witnessed the events of
nine centuries; and he imparted his knowledge to his descendants. The antediluvians were without books, they
had no written records; but with their great physical and mental vigor, they had strong memories, able to grasp
and to retain that which was communicated to them, and in turn to transmit it unimpaired to their posterity.
And for hundreds of years there were seven generations living upon the earth contemporaneously, having the
opportunity of consulting together and profiting each by the knowledge and experience of all.” PP.082-83.

HYPOTHALAMUS: The hypothalamus is very important and an influential part of the brain, forming the
floor of the third ventricle of the brain. The hypothalamus has many essential functions such as:

• Regulating the autonomic (involuntary) nervous system.

• Center for emotional response and behavior.
• Body temperature regulation.
• Regulation of food intake.
• Regulation of water balance and thirst.
• Regulation of sleep-wake cycles.
• Control of endocrine system function.

It is the hypothalamus that has a major influence upon the greatest temptations that we go through: appetite, lust,
and emotional behavior. A bad diet creates impure blood which passes through the hypothalamus and
stimulates it to influence certain endocrine glands. The pituitary gland, for example can be influenced, causing
the release of powerful hormones that give you wrong feelings which can overcome your will and force it in
submission to its desires. The hypothalamus is one area of the brain that receives the richest supply of blood,
and depending upon the state of that blood, determines the production of chemical hormones that are released,
and if this blood is impure the thoughts become impure and sin stands at the door.

“The brain is the organ and instrument of the mind, and controls the whole body. In order for the other parts of
the system to be healthy, the brain must be healthy; and in order for the brain to be healthy, the blood must be
pure. If, by correct habits of eating and drinking, the blood is kept pure, the brain will be properly nourished.”
RH.1901-04-09.

THE CEREBRAL HEMISPHERES: The bulk of the brain consists of two large masses called hemispheres
which are covered by deep folds of grey matter. These worm-like wrinkles are termed convolutions and grooves
in between are termed sulci. The purpose of these sinuous folds are to provide the brain with a large surface
area within a small volume. If these convolutions were flattened out, the surface area of the human brain would
cover such an enormous area that it would not fit within the skull.

THE PARIETAL LOBES: THE ASSOCIATION CORTEX

These lobes are actually continuous with the other lobes of the brain, and for a very good reason. They sit
tucked between the temporal lobes below, the frontal lobes in front, and the occipital lobes behind. The reason
this is a perfect location is that the parietal lobes must have intimate communication with all other areas of the
brain so that it can integrate this information into a clear picture. This is why it is called the association cortex.
It must also connect to the primary memory lobe of the brain, the temporal, so as to check for previous
memories of what is being seen, heard or felt. It thumbs through the files and if it finds a previous record of
what is being presently analysed, it says, “ah ha!”

It is the parietal lobes that keep us oriented not only to our surroundings, but also to our own body parts. Right
after birth we begin to learn the layout of our body. This is why a baby stares and explores it hands and feet.
The infant is discovering its new body and registering that memory for later use. When it is time, for example to
write with a pencil, the association cortex draws the memory of the hand from the temporal lobes and then
formulates an internal visual and tactile picture on how to carry out the activity using the hand. It then contracts
the appropriate sections of the brain and gives commands as how best to carry this out.

When we travel by car to the store for our weekly trip to get groceries, it is out association cortex that tells us
how to get there and back. It records a map in our brain and stores it there for later use. This internal map
requires the use of the visual lobes of the brain (the occipital lobes), which record visual cues. When the parietal
lobe of the brain is damaged, the person gets lost in otherwise familiar surroundings. This is the part of the
brain destroyed in Alzheimer’s disease that causes the elderly to wander from home and become lost.

OCCIPITAL LOBE: This is the visual lobe of the brain. It receives impulses from our eyes in a rather
complex manner, that at first seems not to make sense. The fiber from the retina travels through the optic nerves
of each eye and then enters an x-shaped structure just underneath the brain called the chiasm. Her something
strange happens. The fibers receiving light from the inner half of the visual field travel straight back to the
occipital lobes on the same side, but the fibers receiving light from the outer visual field cross in the chiasm and
travel to the opposite occipital lobe. That is, the image is split and registered on opposite sides of the brain.

Why was the brain designed in such a complicated manner? Well, it maybe that it gives us maximum protection
for our vision should the brain pathways be damaged, for example by a stroke. That is, it allows us to retain at
lest some vision in both visual fields should an injury result.

The physiology of vision is very complicated and is beyond our discussion here. Suffice to say that nerve cells
of the visual cortex connect to many areas of the brain, including the association cortex and the temporal lobes.

TEMPORAL LOBES: THE MEMORY LOBES:

With the advent of neurosurgery it was found that surgeons could remove almost one entire temporal lobe with
little adverse effect. This was done when treating tumors and epilepsy. However, in 1937 two scientists, Kluver
and Bucy, found that when both temporal lobes of monkeys were removed the animals exhibited quite unusual
behavior, including a loss of lobe visual memory. It was then found that in human cases of bilateral temporal
lobe destruction (as seen with herpes encephalitis) the person exhibited a complete loss of recent memory - they
were unable to remember anything that had occured in the recent past.

Later a neurosurgeon by the name of Wilder Penfield operated on a scizure patient while the patient was awake.
During this surgery Dr. Penfield began stimulating the exposed temporal lobe with tiny jolts of electricity. As
he moved the probe along the surface of the temporal lobe the patient suddenly reported a clear visual memory.
It was as if a movie of the memory was being shown before the patients eyes. When the probe was removed the
memory suddenly disappeared.

DR. Penfield repeated this experiment many times and discovered that all sorts of memories could be called up,
including musical memories. One patient heard a tune that he recalled as a child each time the probe was
activated on his temporal lobe. These memories were not just vague recollections – it was more as if the events
were being relived at the very moment. It appears that memories are stored in the temporal lobes of the brain,
even those long forgotten consciously.

When we combine these two observations we discover that short term memories, like what you had for breakfast
this morning, and long term memories are both gathered within the temporal lobes of the brain. Later it was
discovered that recent memory processes were further localized to a special area in the temporal lobes called the
hippocampus. These are curled cortical areas tucked beneath the temporal lobes. Herpes simplex virus, tends to
attack this area of the brain, often leaving its victims unable to make new memories.

The memory process remins a mystery, but seems to involve wide areas of the entire brain as well. This has
been referred to as the hologram theory of memory. Destruction of critical nerve cells in the temporal lobes also
plays an important role in Alzheimer’s disease. Due to its role in elaborating memories and combining them
into emotional patterns, DR. Penfield referred to this enigmatic lobe of the brain as the “interpretive cortex”.

THE INFERIOR OF THE BRAIN

THE VENTRICLES: CAVERNS IN THE BRAIN: The brain, as we have seen, is divided into two
hemispheres that are connected deep in the middle by a broad band of nerve fibers called the corpus callosum.
The fibers going to and coming from the hemispheres travel by way of the brain stem. If you were to hold a
fresh brain you would instantly notice its jelly-like consistency and its weight. Although it would feel solid, it is
not a solid mass. Deep within its core there exists a series of caverns called the ventricles. Like most caverns,
the ventricles connect to each other by way of several narrow passages, each having its own special name.

The ventricles are filled with a fluid that is as clear as spring water, called cerebrospinal fluid, or CSF for short.
This fluid is produced by specialized caverns (the lateral ventricles). This fluid circulates through the narrow
side, where it then circulates over the surface of the brain and is absorbed back into the blood.

The ancient Greeks thought that the brain was a cooling system because of the fluid filled cavities in the brain.
However we know that the CSF is far more than just a cooling system for the brain. Recent studies indicate that
it can act as a transport mechanism for important chemicals, hormones and electrolytes. These chemical can
travel through the walls of the ventricles of the brain itself.

RELAY STATIONS BELOW THE SURFACE: Generally we are told that grey matter is on the surface of
the brain and white matter is below. This is not entirely true. In fact, there is considerable amount of grey
matter below the surface of the brain. The grey matter is grey because it consists mainly of nerve cells called
neurons and specialized non-nerve cells called glia. The white matter consists of the billions of nerve fibers
(axons) coming from and going to the grey matter.

The grey matter below the surface of the brain is arranged into compact spheroids called nuclei. Usually these
nuclei blend together at various points even though we speak about them as if they were isolated.

THALAMUS: This is the largest of the paired nuclei found deep in the brain. It is located just above the brain
stem into which it appears to blend. “Thalamus” is Greek for inner chamber. It was taught in neuroanatomy in
medical school that it was merely a relay nucleus concerned with the sensation of touch and other sensory
functions. In other words, it was like an electrical substation that redirected impulses to other parts of the brain.
Now we know that it is much more than that. It is what we call an integration unit, more like a miniature brain,
performing quite complex functions, including the independent appreciation of some sensations.

Birds, for example, can function without a cortex, purely on a thalamic level. In humans, pain and crude touch
sensations can be felt solely from thalamus. It also plays a part in language function and possible in memory. It
still has not revealed all of its secrets.
THE STRIATUM: This actually consists of three large nuclei, called the putamen, globus palidus, and the
caudate nucleus. The caudate sits right next to the outer wall of the front part of the lateral ventricle. The
putamen is a wedge-like nucleus that rests behind and lateral to the caudate. In fact, it is attached to another
nucleus called the globus pallidus. Below this is a whole array of smaller nuclei that interconnect to all the
others. All of these connections are extremely complex.

The striatum plays a major role in what we call automatic movements, such as swinging our arms when we
walk. When you walk you automatically swing your arms to counterbalance the shifting of your center of
gravity. This is all done unconsciously. In fact, many of our more complex movements are already pre-
programmed within the striatal system, even the conscious ones. When we consciously will to carry out a
movement our brain merely activates one of these complex circuits. It is really an incredibly clever system.

When one of these circuits is injured some very bizarre events can occur. For example, when a small stroke
destroys a tiny nucleus, called subthalamic nucleus, the person will have uncontrollable flinging movements of
one arm. It will just fly out, giving the appearance that they are purposely trying to strike someone. What has
happened is that the stroke has damaged the control mechanism that holds this automatic movement in check.

This system of interconnecting nuclei consists of a multitude of such circuits that are carefully balanced by both
negative and positive feedback control systems. The negative feedback dampens, or shuts off the circuit, and
the positive feedback system either releases the circuit or stimulates it to activity. This carefully regulated and
balanced system of circuits gives our movements a smooth action. If you have ever seen a person with cerebral
palsy you can get a idea of what can happen when this system is out of control. These writhing, jerky
movements are the result of motor circuits that have lost their negative feedback control systems.

NO LOBE IS AN ISLAND: While we talk about certain areas of the brain carrying out specific functions, in
reality no part acts alone. Every part of the brain depends on many other parts for its function. Often these
sections of the brain are relatively far apart. These various parts must talk to each other by way of nerve fibers
which are like very sophisticated electrical cables. They can alter the signals under various conditions, making
the signal smoother and more understandable.

These fibers tracts travel in all directions. Some travel long distances, even to the opposite hemisphere of the
brain. The same lobe of one hemisphere of the brain connects to its mirror image on the opposite hemisphere.
These billions of fiber pathways make up the white matter of the brain. Hidden to the naked eye is the fact that
billions of microcircuits also exist throughout the brain; small ones, simple ones, and extremely complex ones.

CONNECTIONS: Thanks to many new techniques in neurochemistry and neuroanatomy, we now know a lot
more about how brain cells and their connections are arranged. For example, we know that in the cortex,
neurons are arranged in functional columns, each interacting with its neighbor.

We should also appreciate that not all neurons fire so as to produce some type of action. Some brain cells are
inhibitory-they stop other neurons from firing. Still others merely modulate and modify the action of the
primary neurons. Everything in the brain is very carefully regulated and finely tuned, right down to the
subcellular level. Some single brain cells may connect to thousands of others.

THE BRAIN STEM: THE GATEWAY TO THE BRAIN: The brain stem is actually arranged in three
levels, based on increasing degrees of sophistication. The higher up the more sophisticated the circuits become.
Some smaller animals are able to function entirely with no more than a brain stem. Attached primarily to the
back portion of the brain stem, is two cauliflower looking hemispheres of brain called the cerebellum. Each of
the three levels of the brain stem connect to the cerebellum by fiber bundles.

The cerebellum is a very complex, yet, at the same time, simply constructed structure. Its circuitry’s repertoire
of actions is enormously complex, but its basic mode of action is relatively simple. The input form the primary
cerebellar neurons, strangely enough is completely inhibitory. But it is how these inhibitory impulses are
“played” that makes the music that controls the other parts of the brain. Until recently it was thought that the
cerebellum produced no impulses itself, but rather reacted to input from other parts of the brain. It was
considered to be the coordination center, making all of our movements smooth and well coordinated. However,
recent studies have indicated that it can do much more than that. In fact, impulses do originate from the
cerebellum.

Within the brain stem we see a multitude of nuclei scattered about. Some control breathing, heart rate, and
balance. Others operate the various sensory and motor nerves of the face and neck called cranial nerves.
Scattered throughout the brain stem is a cloud of nerve cells that make up what is called the reticular formation,
or reticular activating system. This loosely organized system not only integrates impulses from all the various
areas of the brain stem, but it is also responsible for our alertness. That is, it keeps us awake. Sometimes we see
injuries to this reticular activating system such as in cases of head injury or strokes. This can result in prolonged
comas.

The remainder of the brain stem is made of fibers passing to the upper brain and those coming down into the
spinal cord and cerebellum from the cortex. One pair of nuclei located in the upper segment of the brain stem
that is particularly important, is called the substantia nigra. It is unusual in that these nuclei contains a very dark
pigment. Under the microscope we see that the black color comes from a substance located within the nerve
cells of the nucleus. This nucleus is important in the causation of Parkinson’s disease, and plays a vital role in
the functioning of the striatal system.

THE MASTER GLAND AND ITS CONTROL: The pituitary gland has been called the master gland,
because it is the central control center for most of the endocrine glands located throughout the body. This tiny
gland, no bigger than the tip of your little finger, sits at the bottom of the brain, encased in a bony pocket above
the nose. Basically, the pituitary gland controls the other endocrine glands, such as small amounts of its
controlling hormones into the blood, which then circulates to the various endocrine organs and causes them to
secrete their hormones. By using this control, the brain can regulate growth, metabolism, and the onset of
puberty. This is why this tiny gland is often called the “master gland.”

What though controls the pituitary gland? If we examine the brain, with the pituitary gland still attached, we see
that the pituitary is connected to a wedge shaped piece of brain called the hypothalamus. This tiny piece of
brain, despite its size, is immensely important. It controls hormone releasing factors that travel only a few
centimeters to the pituitary gland, where they stimulate the pituitary to release its hormones. By a clever system
of feedback controls, the hypothalamus regulates the hormone balance in the body. It’s sort of a hormone
thermostat.

The hypothalamus is much more however. It also controls hunger, and satiety, sleep and waking cycles, the
autonomic system, emotions, and even our biological clocks. Even minor injuries to the hypothalamus can be
fatal. It is extremely delicate both physically and bio-chemically.

THE ELECTROCHEMICAL BRAIN: Normally we think of the nervous system as a vast array of
electronic circuits; living circuits, but circuits none the less. In reality though, the nervous system is much more
than that. It is a system which can generate impulses and convey those impulses over long distances by way of
special self-propagating biochemical events.

The brain consumes about 20% of the body’s oxygen and 25% of the body’s glucose, yet makes up only 2% of
the body’s weight. The majority of this energy is spent supporting impulse generation and transmission. The
brain nerve never rests, even during deep sleep. In fact, during deep anesthesia the brain is still consuming
enormous amounts of energy.

We know that the nerve impulses begin at one spot on the dendrite or axon and spreads from there like falling
dominos. The axon acts as a semi-permeable membrane, keeping sodium ions on the outside and chloride and
potassium ions on the inside. This produces a net positive charge on the outside of the axon and a net negative
charge on the inside. When the site on the axon is stimulated, the membrane suddenly changes its properties so
that sodium rushes into the interior of the nerve fiber and depolarizes the axon. This is called axon potential.
This process of sodium rushing into the interior of the nerve fiber, continues down the axon until it reaches up to
200 miles per hour. While there is an electric current generated, the impulse is actually a chemical message. In
order for this chemical message to reach the next neuron down the line, a gap must be bridged. This gap is
called the synapse.

SYNAPTIC TRANSFER OF INFORMATION: While occasionally the gap is crossed by true electrical
conductance, in most cases it occurs by a chemical transfer of information. This is referred to as
neurotransmission and the chemical messenger is called a neurotransmitter. Trillions of chemical messages are
being transmitted throughout the brain every second.

Basically, this process requires that the impulse stimulates the release of chemical transmitters from microscopic
packets located in the bulbous end of the axon. This neurotransmitter is released into the space between the
synapse and the next neuron receptor called the synaptic cleft. This, in turn, causes the next neuron in line to
fire and send its message on down the line. Release of the neurotransmitter is triggered by the sudden flow of
calcium ions into the bulbous end of the axon.

So why doesn’t the neuron just keep firing as long as the neurotransmitter remains in the synaptic cleft? Well, it
will unless something is done to remove the transmitter chemical. God has designed the brain has several clever
mechanisms to carry this out. One method is to reabsorb the chemical back into the neuron bulb that released it
in the first place. Another method is for the neuron to use special enzymes to change the transmitter into a
harmless by-product. That is, it is inactivated. In some instances it just diffuses away.

Many anti-depressants work by inactivating the neurotransmitter inactivator enzyme. For example, some brain
cells have a neutralizing enzyme called monoamine oxidase, or MAO for short, which neutralizes several of the
amine neurotransmitters. One of the treatments of depression is aimed at increasing the amount of the
neurotransmitter that elevates mood. This mood elevating neurotransmitter is called norepinephrine. MAO
normally inactivates norepinephrine. Some anti-depressants also prevent re-uptake of the transmitter, thereby
allowing mood elevating neurons to be stimulated longer.

In many cases all three methods of inactivation are used. Some also use surrounding cells called astrocytes, to
inactivate these neurotransmitters. Astrcytes are not nerve cells but play a vital role in the metabolic support of
neurons. In fact glia cells, as they are called, outnumber neurons ten to one. In the case of the neurotransmitter
glutamate, it is the astrocyte that both manufacturers glutamate and inactivates it when the impulse has passed to
the next neuron.

The number of neurotransmitters found in the brain has grown by leaps and bounds, and more are being
discovered. Thus far there are over fifty known and suspected neurotransmitter substances operating in the
brain and spinal cord. Some of these chemicals are not actually transmitters of information between cells but
rather modulate these signals, possibly cutting out background noise and some inhibit them. For example, the
neurotransmitter GABA (can be remembered by the saying: “God’s Appointed Blocking Agency) is an
inhibitory transmitter. We know that some neurons have both inhibitory and excitatory synapses connected to
them. This further fine tunes the signal.

PUTTING IT TOGETHER: How the brain puts all this together into speech, hearing, sight, mentation,
emotions, and supportive bodily functions remains a mystery. However we have some clues. We know that one
neuron may interconnect to thousands of other neurons and that this vast array of interconnections roughly
resembles the circuits of some of our most complicated computers. With each event, such as moving our little
finger, there occurs an incredibly complicated series of interactions between the cerebellum, the sensorimotor
cortex, parietal lobes, and a maze of circuits in the nuclei deep within the brain.
The brain is much more resilient than most people think. Boxers who have had their brains pounded repeatedly
can continue to function quite normally. There was a case of a six year old child that had been shot through the
brain, and the bullet passing in one side and out the other, without a single neurological deficiency being
evident. Other areas though, such as the hypothalamus are very sensitive, and even slight damage can result in
death.

THE BLOOD BRAIN BARRIER: As we have seen, the brain is a chemical factory which depends on careful
quality control for its operation. The amounts of these chemical used to transmit signals in infinitesimal. Even
small fluctuations in these concentrations can result in dramatic disruptions of brain function, and even cause
death of certain cells.

The brain receives the same blood that flows through the body. Therefore, it is exposed to high concentrations
of chemicals in the blood, both from metabolism and from the diet. Some of these chemicals are quite toxic to
the brain.

The blood-brain barrier excludes some substances and allows others free passage, however it is not perfect. In
fact, some parts of the brain never develop a barrier system at all. For example, the hypothalamus, the
circumventricular organs, the pineal, and a small nucleus in the brain stem called the locus ceruleus, are without
barrier protection.

There is also evidence that the barrier is broken down or at least partially malfunctions under certain conditions.
For instance, strokes temporarily break down the barrier, resulting in swelling of the brain. Brain tumors also
cause the barrier to break, and may, in fact, cause it to break down at some distance from the tumor. Head
injuries can also cause this protective system to fail.

CONCLUSION: This three pound universe, as it is has been called, is as amazing and wondrous as the cosmic
universe itself. The repertoire of actions available to the brain is mind-boggling. We are just now discovering
some of its most closely held secrets.

God has indeed given us an incredible organ in which to ponder His handiwork, one which never cease through
endless ages of eternity. The vast stores of knowledge will continue to expand this organ to which God
originally designed it. When one considers the amount of room that the brain can store, is it any wonder that we
will need an eternity to take it to its fullest potential. As amazing and complicated as the human brain is, it is
infinitely inferior to the one that made it. However we can be thankful for that, and praise Him that our lowly
brain can be a partaker of His divine mind and be filled with the fullness of God in Christ Jesus.

SPIRIT OF PROPHECY & THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

Affect of inactivity on the nervous system: “Physical inaction lessens not only mental but moral power. The
brain nerves that connect with the whole system are the medium through which heaven communicates with man
and affects the inmost life. Whatever hinders the circulation of the electric current in the nervous system, thus
weakening the vital powers and lessening mental susceptibility, makes it more difficult to arouse the moral
nature.” ED.209.

The result of too much study: “Again, excessive study, by increasing the flow of blood to the brain, creates
morbid excitability that tends to lessen the power of self-control, and too often gives sway to impulse or caprice.
Thus the door is opened to impurity. The misuse or nonuse of the physical powers is largely responsible for the
tide of corruption that is overspreading the world. "Pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness," are as
deadly foes to human progress in this generation as when they led to the destruction of Sodom.” ED.209.

Anger weakens nervous system: “One class have come up without self-control; they have not bridled the
temper or the tongue; and some of these claim to be Christ's followers, but they are not. Jesus has set them no
such example. When they have the meekness and lowliness of the Saviour, they will not act out the promptings
of the natural heart, for this is of Satan. Some are nervous, and if they begin to lose self-control in word or spirit
under provocation, they are as much intoxicated with wrath as the inebriate is with liquor. They are
unreasonable, and not easily persuaded or convinced. They are not sane; Satan for the time has full control.
Every one of these exhibitions of wrath weakens the nervous system and the moral powers, and makes it
difficult to restrain anger on another provocation. With this class there is only one remedy,--positive self-control
under all circumstances.” YI.1886-11-10.

Drug effects on the nervous system: “The drugs given to stupefy, whatever they may be, derange the nervous
system.” HL.202.

THOUGHTS ABOUT THE MIND FROM SCRIPTURE

GOD REQUIRES A WILLING MIND FOR SERVICE 1 CHRON 28.9
A FOOL UTTERETH ALL HIS MIND PROV 29.11
WE HAVE PERFECT PEACE BY KEEPING OUR MINDS UPON GOD ISA 26.3
GOD KNOWS EVERY THOUGHT OF OUR MINDS EZE 11.5
THE MIND CAN BE HARDENED IN PRIDE DAN 5.20
JESUS ASKS US TO LOVE GOD WITH ALL OUR MIND MATT 22.37
IF WE RETAIN NOT GOD IN OUR KNOWLEDGE WE WILL HAVE A REPROBATE ROM 1.28
MIND

THE FLESH WARS AGAINST THE MIND ROM 7.23

THE CHRISTIAN MIND SERVES THE LAW OF GOD ROM 7.25
THE CARNAL MIND IS AT ENMITY WITH GOD ROM 8.7
CHRISTIANS HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST 1 COR 2.16
WE ARE CALLED TO BE OF ONE MIND 2 COR 13.11
UNBELIEVERS WALK IN THE VANITY OF THEIR MIND EPH 4.17
WE ARE TO BE RENEWED IN THE SPIRIT OF OUR MIND EPH 4.23
WICKED WORKS ALIENATE OUR MIND TO GOD AND MAKE US ENEMIES COL 1.21
TOWARDS HIM

WE ARE NOT TO BE SHAKEN IN MIND 2 THESS 2.2

GOD HAS GIVEN US A SOUND MIND 2 TIM 1.7
UNBELIEVERS HAVE A DEFILED MIND TITUS 1.15
WE ARE TO GIRD UP THE LOINS OF OUR MIND 1 PET 1.13

The nervous system as you have learnt is God’s communication system to relay messages to us to be carried out
according to His will. Three of the greatest messages that God has given in the Bible are the three angels’
messages found in Revelation 14.6-12. These messages come from the throne of heaven, and are given to the
world by messengers, which are referred to in the Bible as angels but can in reality be people, Galatians
4.14,2nd Samuel 19.27 & 14.17.
Just as the body can’t move a muscle without messages being relayed through the nervous system, so too can’t
the church move spiritually without these messages being received by its members. Without proper
communication of these messages throughout the body, it becomes paralyzed and unable to perform any useful
function.

God has set over the church ministers to perform the sacred task of communicating the gospel to its members,
instructing them in paths of righteousness, though the members are under no less a responsibility to
communicate the gospel as well. When the ministers fail to perform this task faithfully, allowing error to infect
the body and give it the wrong messages, its members carry out the wrong function of which they were designed
not to do and there is confusion in the ranks.

Some would say that the ministry is so confused that we need to get out of the body lest we perish; others would
say that we won’t do anything without the ministry’s approval, lest we are seen as being independent. Both
views are wrong and go to extremes in their thinking. Let’s take a look at a Biblical example of this in action.

“When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put
him to death.” Matthew 27.1. Here we see that the ministry were not in favor of receiving the message of the
gospel. Now let us see what effect this had upon the members of the body. “But the chief priests MOVED the
people, that they should rather release Barabbas unto them.” Mark 15.11.

Here we clearly see how the ministry communicated the wrong message to the body (church) and was received
by its members as the right thing to do. Time after time you will read in the Bible of apostasy filtering down
from the ministry to the people, leading to a corrupting influence upon its members. So we as members are not
safe to surrender our wills to any minister of the gospel, by relying upon his understanding of the message,
without us knowing and receiving it personally into our own lives. We are to be like the Bereans to search “the
scriptures daily whether those things were so.” (acts 17:11) and make God our trust, and not man. (Jer 17:5).

We also see in scripture when the leaders of Israel were faithful, that it communicated a positive influence upon
the people and lead them to repentance. Such was the case with Moses, Elijah, Hezekiah, David, Solomon and
many more.

We have talked about ministers communicating the gospel, but it is the role of every born again Christian to do
the same thing. They may not have the eloquence of Paul, or the zeal of Peter, and the gentleness of John, but
your own personal testimony can be the greatest way you can communicate the love of God to a perishing soul,
why not start doing it today?

THE THREE ANGELS MESSAGES: “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the
everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and
people, Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and
worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. And there followed another
angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the
wrath of her fornication. And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the
beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, The same shall drink of the wine of the
wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented
with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: And the smoke of
their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his
image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep
the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Rev.14.6-12

The three angels message is the message for this present time and is to be communicated to every part of the
body (church) and through the church to every part of the world.
Why is this message so important? Because it effects the central nervous system, your brain, which affects your
character and determines your destiny. This message has power to transform the mind of man, to bring him
back in the image of God. At the same time that God is trying to elevate man back to the image of God Satan is
trying to lower man down to the level of the beast. It is this message that will ultimately determines our
thinking and perception of God. Anything that clouds the message also places a veil over our mind and degrade
our conceptions of the true image of God. We must study this message in order to see God in the correct light,
that we may receive the pure and Holy thoughts relayed through the nervous system.

THE DANGER OF RECEIVING FALSE MESSAGES: There was a man of God who came from Judah
unto Bethel to rebuke the pagan practices of Jeroboam king of Israel. “And he cried against the altar in the word
of the LORD, and said, O altar, altar, thus saith the LORD; Behold, a child shall be born unto the house of
David, Josiah by name; and upon thee shall he offer the priests of the high places that burn incense upon thee,
and men's bones shall be burnt upon thee. And he gave a sign the same day, saying, This is the sign which the
LORD hath spoken; Behold, the altar shall be rent, and the ashes that are upon it shall be poured out. And it
came to pass, when king Jeroboam heard the saying of the man of God, which had cried against the altar in
Bethel, that he put forth his hand from the altar, saying, Lay hold on him. And his hand, which he put forth
against him, dried up, so that he could not pull it in again to him.” 1King.13.2-4.

The king then requested of the prophet that he would pray for him, that his hand would be restored, and this he
did, and God answered his prayer. The king then invited the prophet back to his house, however the prophet
refused saying, “For so was it charged me by the word of the LORD, saying, Eat no bread, nor drink water, nor
turn again by the same way that thou camest. So he went another way, and returned not by the way that he came
to Bethel.” 1King.13.9,10

“Now there dwelt an old prophet in Bethel; and his sons came and told him all the works that the man of God
had done that day in Bethel: the words which he had spoken unto the king, them they told also to their father.
And their father said unto them, What way went he? For his sons had seen what way the man of God went,
which came from Judah. And he said unto his sons, Saddle me the ass. So they saddled him the ass: and he rode
thereon, And went after the man of God, and found him sitting under an oak: and he said unto him, Art thou the
man of God that camest from Judah? And he said, I am. Then he said unto him, Come home with me, and eat
bread. And he said, I may not return with thee, nor go in with thee: neither will I eat bread nor drink water with
thee in this place: For it was said to me by the word of the LORD, Thou shalt eat no bread nor drink water there,
nor turn again to go by the way that thou camest. He said unto him, I am a prophet also as thou art; and an angel
spake unto me by the word of the LORD, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat
bread and drink water. But he lied unto him. So he went back with him, and did eat bread in his house, and
drank water. And it came to pass, as they sat at the table, that the word of the LORD came unto the prophet that
brought him back: And he cried unto the man of God that came from Judah, saying, Thus saith the LORD,
Forasmuch as thou hast disobeyed the mouth of the LORD, and hast not kept the commandment which the
LORD thy God commanded thee, But camest back, and hast eaten bread and drunk water in the place, of the
which the LORD did say to thee, Eat no bread, and drink no water; thy carcase shall not come unto the
sepulchre of thy fathers. And it came to pass, after he had eaten bread, and after he had drunk, that he saddled
for him the ass, to wit, for the prophet whom he had brought back. And when he was gone, a lion met him by
the way, and slew him: and his carcase was cast in the way, and the ass stood by it, the lion also stood by the
carcase.” 1st Kings 13:11-24.

In this story we can learn the lesson that following the messages that God gives us are very important, in the
case we just read it was vital to the prophets survival. We must make sure that we do not in any way deviate
from the path that God has set before us. The same is also the case in the brain, there are certain pathways that
are thoughts should never take, Jesus gave us some examples of some, “But I say unto you, That whosoever
looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” Matt.5.28. “But I
say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and
whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool,
shall be in danger of hell fire.” Matt.5.22
We should be regularly examining our thoughts and saying: “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me,
and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Psa.139.23,24.

The great controversy that man is faced with comes down to a battle over whose thoughts he wants to accept or
reject. The battle is in the mind, and the victory is only gained by a surrendering and fully submitting the
thoughts to the will of God. “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him
return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my
thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher
than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isa.55.7-9

Here we see that God wants the unrighteous man to forsake his thoughts, for there is pardon and mercy in that
act. However God has to replace our corrupt thoughts for something better, it is like wiping off your hard drive
that is full of viruses and putting in a whole new program. The new software that goes in is the Word of God,
and actually rewires our brain, forming new pathways of thought that bypass the old pathways that lead to
impurity of thinking. This will lead us to declare, as said the psalmist “How precious also are thy thoughts unto
me, O God! how great is the sum of them!” Psa.139.17

Just like the prophet that was told not to go back the same way that he came (1st Kings 13:9), our thoughts are
not to turn back to the old paths of sin.

Each thought has a reaction in the body and sets up stronger resistance to God’s voice or stronger resistance to
that of Satan’s, for we can only serve one of two masters, Matt.6.24. Our thoughts lead to actions, and we are
rewarded according to our thinking. “Hear, O earth: behold, I will bring evil upon this people, even the fruit of
their thoughts, because they have not hearkened unto my words, nor to my law, but rejected it.” Jer.6.19

Corrupt imagination: One of the most dangerous faculties of the mind that God gave to man was the
imagination, used for good it would prove a blessing, but when not under the control of God it would prove a
curse. “But they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their
evil heart, and went backward, and not forward.” Jer.7.24

Man was destroyed by a flood because of the corruptness of his imagination: “And God saw that the wickedness
of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.”
Gen.6.5

Man cannot follow Christ with an imagination that exalts itself, self must die, otherwise our imagination will lift
itself up against the knowledge of God, it must be bound and made captive to Christ. “Casting down
imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity
every thought to the obedience of Christ;” 2Cor.10.5

It would do us well to study into the root of a corrupt imagination, for this we need to go back to its origins.
“Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness: I
will cast thee to the ground, I will lay thee before kings, that they may behold thee.” Eze.28.17

“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which
didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne
above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend
above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.” Isa.14.12-14.

Here we clearly see that Lucifer’s diseased imagination was prompted by vanity, the root of which had its
foundation in self, (I,I,I). This of course ultimately leads to the “Carnal Mind”, which is governed by its own
imagination and self seeking.
THE CARNAL MIND:

“For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” Rom.8.6. Here we see the
result of a carnal mind, but what actually is it? It is the mind of Satan. “Because the carnal mind is enmity
against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” Rom.8.7. This text clearly shows us
what this carnal mind is, “Enmity”, and who has the greatest enmity against God? Is it not Satan himself!
Notice the Bible doesn’t say it is “at enmity” but “is enmity” which shows us that it cannot be changed or
reconciled, it is death itself, and because it is death and leads to death, it must die in order to bring about a
change in the mind of man.

A description of the carnal mind:

• Places its own reason or opinions before the Word of God. Luke.5.21,22.
• Sees wisdom as coming from self. Eze.28.17
• Walk in the vanity of their mind. Eph.4.17
• Relies on its own judgement which is prompted by the flesh. John.8.15
• Is controlled by its own desires and impulses of the body and mind. Eph.2.3, Rom.7.5
• Is not subject to the law of God. Rom.8.7
• Cannot understand spiritual things. 1Cor.2.14

Another way of saying the carnal mind, is the unconverted mind, which is a mind that is not conformed to the
will of God and is bent on carrying out its own impulses, even when it knows it is wrong.

The carnal mind is governed by its body, and becomes a slave to its desires which become its ruling influence,
therefore the body rules the mind and brings it into subjection to its will. “But I see another law in my
members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my
members.” Rom.7.23. (Please note that this is not the converted Paul speaking of his relationship with Christ,
for there is no victory in this life).

“It is impossible for us, of ourselves, to escape from the pit of sin in which we are sunken. Our hearts are evil,
and we cannot change them. "Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one." "The carnal mind is
enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be." Job 14:4; Romans 8:7.
Education, culture, the exercise of the will, human effort, all have their proper sphere, but here they are
powerless. They may produce an outward correctness of behavior, but they cannot change the heart; they cannot
purify the springs of life. There must be a power working from within, a new life from above, before men can be
changed from sin to holiness. That power is Christ. His grace alone can quicken the lifeless faculties of the soul,
and attract it to God, to holiness.” SC.018.

THE MIND OF CHRIST: “For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have
the mind of Christ.” 1Cor.2.16. “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” Phil.2.5. This is the
only mind that the Christian can have in order to rule the flesh. “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us
in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from
sin;” 1Pet.4.1

When a person becomes a truly converted Christian they receive the mind of Christ. They have not an old mind
refurbished, because that mind is enmity and is full of self, everything about it is sin, it never could control the
body, therefore it needs replacing.

A description of the mind of Christ:

• Surrendered His will to God, Matt.26.39

• Defeated temptation in the flesh, Matt.4:1-4.
• Was always guided by the Word of God. Matt.26.24
• Never sinned, (was always subject to the law) John.8.46
• Led by the Spirit. Luke.4.1
• Glorified His Father. John.17.4
• Had a meek and lowly mind, Matt.11.29

THE CONVERTED MIND: “Conversion is a work that most do not appreciate. It is not a small matter to
transform an earthly, sin-loving mind and bring it to understand the unspeakable love of Christ, the charms of
His grace, and the excellency of God, so that the soul shall be imbued with divine love and captivated with the
heavenly mysteries. When he understands these things, his former life appears disgusting and hateful. He hates
sin, and, breaking his heart before God, he embraces Christ as the life and joy of the soul. He renounces his
former pleasures. He has a new mind, new affections, new interest, new will; his sorrows, and desires, and love
are all new. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life, which have heretofore been preferred
before Christ, are now turned from, and Christ is the charm of his life, the crown of his rejoicing. Heaven, which
once possessed no charms, is now viewed in its riches and glory; and he contemplates it as his future home,
where he shall see, love, and praise the One who hath redeemed him by His precious blood.” 2T.294.

Enter not into Temptation: Jesus gave some very good advice to man in helping him get the victory over sin,
which was as follows; “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation:” Matt.26.41 The best way to
overcome sin, is to not willfully walk into it, of course this doesn’t mean that when temptation comes upon us
unexpectedly that God will now provide a way of escape, for this He has promised, 1Cor.10.13.

In walking into temptation neurons are fired up in the brain that stimulate the endocrine system to release
powerful hormones in the blood stream that give us the desire to sin. God in His mercy wants to keep us from
these chemical urges to sin, which means that we have to avoid seeing, reading, hearing, touching, and tasting
those things that will bring about this chemical reaction.

The more we behold the temptation the stronger the electrical impulses become, and in their effect they break
down the power of the will to choose the path of obedience, our only safety is in the Word of God as our
counselor.

And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? Matt.9.4