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Writer's pictureJai Jind

The Ontological Dependence in Three Domains of Existence

Ontological Dependence of Three Overlapping Domains (Systems/Realms) of Existence


The framework of ontological dependence examines the interconnections between the spiritual, mental (psycho-ideological), and material realms. This perspective emphasizes how spiritual truths influence mental beliefs, which in turn manifest in physical realities. The concept highlights both positive transformations and the negative consequences of spiritual and mental misalignments, including the formation of ideological idols.


1. Spiritual Realm


The spiritual realm is foundational, encompassing divine truths, principles, and the influence of spiritual beings. This realm shapes the mental and material realms, influencing individual and collective life experiences.


Biblical Perspective:


• Ephesians 6:12 underscores the reality of spiritual warfare, highlighting the existence of principalities and powers that seek to influence and corrupt human systems and ideologies.

• The spiritual realm is not merely a passive backdrop but actively interacts with and influences the mental and material realms.


2. Mental (Psycho-Ideological) Realm


The mental realm involves the formation, transformation, and influence of beliefs, values, and ideologies. It is a critical area where spiritual truths or falsehoods take root and shape perceptions and behaviors.


Formation and Influence of Ideological Idols:


• Romans 1:21-23 illustrates how turning away from God leads to the formation of ideological idols. When individuals or societies reject God’s truth, they often substitute it with created things or ideas, leading to idolatry. This can manifest in various forms, such as materialism, nationalism, relativism, or even the deification of technology and progress.

• 2 Corinthians 4:4 speaks of the “god of this age” blinding the minds of unbelievers, preventing them from seeing the light of the gospel. This blindness can lead to the acceptance of false ideologies that become deeply ingrained in a culture, shaping collective thought and behavior.


Characteristics of Ideological Idols:


• Monolithic Patterns: Ideological idols often produce monolithic patterns of thought, speech, and behavior. These patterns are uniform and pervasive, creating a cultural mindset resistant to alternative perspectives or divine truth. For example, consumerism promotes a relentless pursuit of material wealth, often at the expense of spiritual values.

• Cultural Domination: These idols can dominate cultures, influencing laws, media, education, and even religious practices. For instance, secularism often marginalizes religious perspectives, promoting a worldview that excludes spiritual considerations.


Impact on Individuals and Societies:


• Ideological idols can lead to a variety of negative outcomes, such as moral relativism, where truth becomes subjective and personal preference overrides objective standards. This can erode the moral fabric of societies, leading to increased corruption, injustice, and social unrest.

• Romans 12:2 encourages believers not to conform to these patterns but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. This transformation involves rejecting the false narratives propagated by these idols and embracing a worldview rooted in biblical truth.


Combating Ideological Idols:


• 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 emphasizes the importance of spiritual warfare in demolishing strongholds and false arguments. Believers are called to take every thought captive to obey Christ, actively challenging and deconstructing false ideologies.

• This involves a conscious effort to align one’s thinking with God’s word, fostering a positive and healthy worldview that acknowledges God’s goodness, sovereignty, and desire for human flourishing.


3. Material Realm


The material realm encompasses the physical manifestations of the influences from the spiritual and mental realms. This includes actions, societal structures, and their consequences, often visible in various forms of life and death, blessings, and curses.


Forms of Life, Blessings, and Curses:


1. Health vs. Sickness:

Health: Linked to obedience to God’s commandments and the cultivation of a godly lifestyle (Exodus 15:26; Proverbs 3:7-8). Health is often seen as a blessing and a sign of living in accordance with divine principles.

Sickness: While not all illness is directly linked to personal sin, the Bible does acknowledge the connection between spiritual and physical well-being (James 5:14-16). Sickness can also be seen as a result of living in a fallen world or as part of spiritual warfare.

2. Wealth vs. Poverty:

Wealth: Considered a blessing from God, wealth should be used responsibly and generously (Deuteronomy 8:18; 1 Timothy 6:17-19). However, wealth can also become an idol if it takes precedence over spiritual values.

Poverty: Recognized as a condition that can result from systemic injustice, lack of opportunity, or personal choices. The Bible calls for compassion and justice towards the poor, emphasizing God’s concern for the marginalized (Proverbs 22:7; James 2:6-7).

3. Happiness (Joy) vs. Sadness:

Joy: A fruit of the Spirit, joy is deeper than mere happiness and is rooted in a relationship with God and the assurance of His promises (Galatians 5:22; Psalm 16:11).

Sadness: Can result from loss, sin, or spiritual oppression. The Bible offers comfort and hope, pointing believers to God’s presence and promises for healing and restoration (Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 61:3).


Internal Exposition vs. External Imposition:

The transformation within the spiritual and mental realms is intended to manifest outwardly in the material realm. This is an internal exposition—an authentic expression of a transformed heart and mind—rather than an external imposition of behavior. The changes reflect a deeper alignment with God’s truth, resulting in a life that embodies His love, joy, and peace.


Conclusion: Overcoming Through the Spirit-Empowered Life


Believers are called to live a spirit-empowered life through the new birth and the baptism in the Holy Spirit. This spiritual empowerment equips them to overcome the enemy’s schemes and the influence of ideological idols. Revelation 12:11 highlights the victory of believers through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony, underscoring the power of Christ’s sacrifice and the believer’s declaration of faith.


Through the new birth, believers undergo a profound transformation that aligns their spirits with God’s truth. The baptism in the Holy Spirit further empowers them, enabling them to live boldly and victoriously, resist the enemy’s deceptions, and reflect God’s kingdom on earth. This holistic transformation—encompassing spirit, mind, and body—helps believers to manifest God’s blessings, live in the fullness of His promises, and effectively counteract the influence of false ideologies and spiritual forces.

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