Call Us: 423 661-4734 | Email: requests@comeandreason.com      
Viruses: What Are They and Where Did They Come From?

Viruses: What Are They and Where Did They Come From?

Given the current COVID-19 pandemic I thought it might be helpful to have a blog on viruses, what are they and where did they come from?

Viruses are coded information that infect other systems and co-opt original function to replicate themselves.

In living organisms, viruses are made out of coded DNA or RNA that hijack the machinery of living cells to construct more of themselves, typically until either the cells or organisms die or the defense mechanisms of the organism eliminates them. Viruses are sometimes called “replicators” because they take the resources of the living cell and replicate more of the virus until the cell dies, explodes, and then infects other cells to do the same thing. If this process isn’t stopped by the body’s immune response, it results in the death of the host, along with the virus.

In computers, viruses are made of coded information written in the language of the program it is targeted to infect. These viruses will take over various operations of the original program and redirect the function of the computer to either replicate more virus code to infect more systems or carry out new directives contrary to the original programming.

One commonly asked question about viruses is: Are viruses that infect living organisms alive? In other words, are viruses themselves living organisms? In the scientific world, this is often debated without a final conclusion, and viruses are often described as “being on the edge of life.” This is because the evolutionary worldview has no working explanations as to the origins of viruses and, thus, can’t decide whether they are truly alive.

But, in the biblical worldview, God created life on earth without disease, defect, or death. Life requires three elements to exist—physical matter, energy, and coded information found in the genetic material of all living organisms. God would not only have created the physical matter, such as the atoms He built together into proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, DNA, and RNA; He would not only have provided the life-giving energy (breath of life); but God would also have written the code—organizing the DNA and RNA letters into the complex coded information that is contained in our chromosomes and is necessary for life.

The life that God created in Eden was flawless, sinless, and without any “bad code” or defects of any kind. When Microsoft and Apple coders write the code necessary for their computers to operate, it is written without viruses. So too, God wrote the code that governs the operations of our physical bodies into our genes—and that code was written without defect and without viruses.

When Microsoft and Apple release their operating systems, viruses do not spontaneously generate from those systems. Likewise, when God created life on earth, it was virus-free and viruses did not spontaneously generate from His creation.

But malicious people can examine the computer operating systems and then choose to hack it, purposely writing new code designed to infect and alter the software’s original function. Satan does not have the power to create life, but being malevolent and intelligent, he is capable of corrupting God’s creation and, thus, after Adam sinned, Satan infected creation with physical viruses—code that was designed to corrupt the physical health of all living organisms on earth.

Jesus said,

The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. The owner’s servants came to him and said, “Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?” “An enemy did this,” he replied (Matthew 13:24–28 NIV84).

The apostle Paul said,

For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time (Romans 8:20–23 NIV84).

The Bible teaches that after Adam sinned, Satan had access to this world. He could now “hack” the genetic code, taking pieces of DNA and RNA, and manipulate it to construct viruses intended to damage and corrupt God’s creation, causing disease, defects, and death. One Bible commentary explains it this way:

Not one noxious plant was placed in the Lord’s great garden, but after Adam and Eve sinned, poisonous herbs sprang up. In the parable of the sower the question was asked the Master, “Didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? how then hath it tares?” The Master answered, “An enemy hath done this.” All tares are sown by the evil one. Every noxious herb is of his sowing, and by his ingenious methods of amalgamation he has corrupted the earth with tares (Manuscript 65, 1899 [published in F. D. Nichol, Ellen G. White and Her Critics], Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary Vol. 1, p. 1086.2).

Viruses were not part of God’s original creation; this is why our immune systems fight to eliminate them. Our immune systems operate like computer antivirus software, constantly monitoring for any infection and seeking to eliminate any virus when identified in order to restore us to health—to our original operations.

Viruses are also an apt metaphor for sin itself. Sin is an infection of the mind—a thought virus—bad code that takes over the original design of our minds and co-opts the system from love and trust to fear and selfishness, which it self-propagates. If not stopped, sin is fatal in 100% of cases.

God sent His Son in order to fix this sin-sick condition. Jesus, as a human, was tempted in every way just like we are but was without sin (Hebrews 2:14). Each one of us “is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed” (James 1:14 NIV84). But in the humanity of Jesus, God’s original design for life, truth, love, and freedom overcame the viral infection of lies, fear, and selfishness. God’s original programming was carried out by the choices of Jesus, who purged the sin-virus from the humanity He assumed. Thus, Jesus destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light (2 Timothy 1:10).

When we trust Jesus and open our hearts to Him, the Holy Spirit comes into our hearts and writes God’s law (His original operating system) on our hearts and minds:

This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel
after that time, declares the Lord.
I will put my laws in their minds
and write them on their hearts (Hebrews 8:10 NIV84).

God’s original code for life, for the operation of our hearts and minds, His design law of love, is restored in us as we become partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). Our characters are transformed, and we are restored in heart and mind to be at-one with God. Then, for all who have experienced this restoration of godly character from Christ, we will receive physical transformation when He returns. At the second coming of Christ, all the damage to the DNA and RNA code will be removed and we mortals will put on immortality, this corruption will put on incorruptions! (1 Corinthians 15:42).

So as the world struggles with the COVID-19 pandemic, don’t be discouraged; we can be sure that, because of Jesus, God will heal and restore from every defect and disease all who trust Him.


Email me the blog whenever a new one is published.

Donate online, securely via PayPal using your credit or debit card (no PayPal account needed, unless you want to set up a monthly, recurring payment).


cancel recurring payment

 

Want to use zelle instead?
See how on our
Support and Donations page.

Upcoming Events

calendar

Testimonial Post Slider

Testimony 43

Two years ago I stumbled upon your book, “Could It Be This Simple,” and then found “The God-Shaped Brain” videos on YouTube, your bible study class, and the ‘Come And Reason’ mobile app. I shared your book with a friend and after nine months of showing love, patience, and kindness this person has been changed by the love of God, too. The same love that healed me, I now express to other women in tangible ways, such as to a Baptist woman with high anxiety and childhood trauma. She was extremely happy and relieved when I shared about the so-called “judgment of God” and burning in hell. She had no desire to serve a God that was so harsh. I have repeated the phrase dozens of times to her. “What we believe has power over us, but we have power over what we believe…”

This message that you are sharing has changed my life. I will continue to serve other women and bring this message of God’s healing love to their lives by sharing your books, YouTube videos, and The Remedy Bible app. Keep up the good work. Don’t be discouraged. God is doing a mighty work in and through this ministry!

Jill L., Midwest, USA

 

Testimony 55

I was born [into the church], then I left it for many years. 10 years ago, I came back, but I could not take the hypocrisy and the lack of answers to the missing pieces. I struggled, but I did not abandon my commitment to know the truth. God is leading me to the simple understanding of his relevance and I am relearning what the church taught me as a youth… that he loves me, that he has led me to a knowledge of him such as I have never known. He is using Dr. Jennings to connect the dots that are now so apparent and hiding in plain sight!

Dean P., Arlington, TX, USA

 

Testimony 18

The Healing the Mind DVD set tarted me on a journey that has changed my relationship with our loving God more significantly than any other study, and brought me to your book and Bible study podcasts, which I now listen to daily, thanks to the availability of archived content on your site and on iTunes.

Anonymous

 

Testimony 44

We were given a gift of the DVD set, “God and Your Brain,” and we just finished watching it. The truths in this are so powerful and truly an answer to a prayer. We’re seeing hope where once we thought God wasn’t answering our prayers to be free of certain mindsets. He answered with these DVDs and we are hungry for more. Thank you!

Daniel T., Easley, SC, USA

 

Testimony 31

It was very touching to hear the testimony of your class share how viewing God’s true character has changed their lives. My feelings are the same – there is so much freedom in knowing that God LOVES me – regardless of my… just, REGARDLESS! I’m still blown away by the true gospel, the fact that God is not ready to strike us when we fail. He is not arbitrary. He simply loves us and warns of the natural consequences because He can’t stand to see us suffer. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS GOD!!!

Ceil V.,  UT, USA

 

Testimony 7

Ok, so last night I listened to “The Law of Liberty” and “How to Achieve Victory: Freedom, Truth and Spirtual Warfare.” These are both MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITES so far! The logic is just soooooo beautiful. I had to re-listen to them a couple of times. I just want to EXPLODE! (<< we assume with joy and happiness)

N. B., Canada

 

Testimony 66

I am incredibly grateful for the transformative impact you’ve had on my life, and words cannot fully express my appreciation. Over the years, I have been an avid listener and follower of C&R and extend my heartfelt thanks for creating the C&R mobile app. It has allowed me to immerse myself in your lessons repeatedly, enabling me to grasp the profound significance about the Character of God, Design Law, the protocols for life, the reasons behind the current chaos, and Christ’s mission to restore everything. They have deeply touched me. Having studied with various churches, I came away with the perception that God is no different from the deities of ancient Greek or Roman mythology—demanding sacrifices and taking pleasure in bloodshed. Thanks to your transformative teachings, I have experienced a profound awakening to the true nature of God and the immense power of His love. It is truly a remarkable and liberating sensation to finally grasp the truth and embrace the empowering nature of God’s laws. My self-perception has become brighter and more infused with love. My journey of growth continues on a daily basis.

Chris P., Lake Mary, FL, USA

 

Testimony 37

Hearing Dr. Jennings’ presentations in person came at a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey that began about nine months ago, when the fault lines inherent in my belief system began to crack under questions that most reasonable people end up asking about God and His nature. These were questions I couldn’t find answers to, and they shook my faith. I was unable let it go any longer and be satisfied. My Christian experience became distant. I was afraid; the fear in me rose like thorns, pushing me away from Jesus. And then someone heard my questions and introduced me to this ministry, and my life has totally changed.

I can tell you that this new, “present truth” message is far grander and life-changing than when I shifted from being an agnostic and then a nominal Christian. It has radically altered my worldview, because it reveals a God that makes sense. It is a revolution. I believe that Dr. Jennings’ message is the final message that must go to the world. If any message could be called “righteousness by faith,” as abused as that term is by the right and the left, this is that message, because Jennings’ biblical message identifies a God who is different, whose character isn’t an impossible contradiction.

I walk this path now without fear. I see people differently, and the Holy Spirit burns in my heart. Many call Dr. Jennings’ message false and compromising, but it isn’t false, because I’ve seen the fruits within my mind and body. It is not compromising, because in this message is the only road to holiness that makes any sense. No longer do I behold a pagan god who is always angry and suspicious. Instead, I behold a God who is freeing and loving, always working for our good, and giving me every reason to love my enemy even to my own death, just as Jesus pleads with us. God is good.

Anthony L., CA, USA

 

Testimony 45

I have been confused for years about what [christianity] calls [its] most disgusting teaching. It has never made much sense to me and for that reason has been evermore empty. I have listened to your class off and on and have struggled determining what is truth, because of the resistance design law encounters in the church. So, I thank God for your ministry. What you teach makes sense. It’s logical and backed up by the power of love. I have never seen that in Christ until now. I am astounded by the insight that is found when we look at God’s ministry through design law. All strength to this message, as I believe it to be the power of God.

Brendon S.

 

Testimony 68

Your message of design law vs imperial law is so uplifting and makes so much sense- it is a game changer for me. The fact that Jesus’s death is not a big payment by an angry God is , quite frankly, a relief.

Laura G., London, Ontario, Canada

 

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 47

I can’t even begin to thank you and your ministry enough for introducing me to the Truth about a loving and merciful God! I have my daughter and her in-laws to thank for sharing with me “The God-Shaped Brain” as well as your website. I listen to the Bible study class lessons on my daily walk. May God continue to bless your thirst-quenching ministry!

Liz H., Port Angeles, WA, USA

 

 

Testimony 38

Since November 2015, when I started studying Gods word from this God Is Love point of view, my life has been transformed. My troubled marriage of 15 years has been healed and my husband and I are truly happy for the first time in 15 years. Now When I read the word of God I understand it so much better and I can’t help but see Gods love radiating through the pages to humanity. Gods word is living and active and I am blessed beyond measure to be having this amazing experience. God has given me a beautiful understanding of Jn 3:16 that amazes me more and more each day. Thank you again for your ministry.

Helen D., London, England

 

Testimony 1

Thank you! I love listening to the Come And Reason Ministries Bible study classes and am using some of your notes to get the lessons together that I will be teaching. You always have such good quotes and Bible texts and pull things together to make good sense.

T. C., IN, USA

 

Testimony 63

I’ve been very blessed by “The God Shaped Brain” and this ministry, through video and podcast, over the last few years. It’s truly opened up my eyes more to the truth about God and the importance of that truth in the present world. The message is so inviting, freeing and enlightening and MORE people need to know about it. I believe it is the last message that can truly, not only prepare a people for salvation and translation, but vindicate the character of God.

Michael V., Yonkers, NY, USA