The degradation of human health over time can be understood through a biblical lens by considering the broader themes of creation, the fall, and the hope of redemption. While the Bible does not directly address the modern scientific concepts of aging and health decline, it provides a theological framework that helps us understand the condition of the world and human life within it.

Creation and the Fall: In the beginning, God created everything, including humans, and declared it “very good” (Genesis 1:31). However, the disobedience of Adam and Eve introduced sin into the world, which had far-reaching consequences for creation (Genesis 3). Romans 5:12 explains, “Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.” The fall brought about a curse on the ground (Genesis 3:17) and on human life, introducing pain, suffering, and mortality. The decay of health over time can be seen as part of the broader impact of sin on the physical world and on human beings specifically.

The Transience of Life: The Bible is replete with reflections on the brevity and fragility of human life. For example, Psalm 90:10 says, “The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away.” This acknowledges the reality of aging and the decline of health as part of the human condition in this present age.

The Groaning Creation: Romans 8:22 states, “For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.” This metaphor of creation groaning under the weight of sin’s consequences can also apply to the human body, which experiences decay and decline as part of the broader “groaning” of creation, longing for redemption and restoration.

Hope and Redemption: Despite the present reality of health degradation and mortality, the Bible offers hope. It speaks of a future resurrection and the redemption of our bodies. In 1 Corinthians 15:52-53, Paul writes, “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality.” This promise of transformation and the renewal of creation (Revelation 21:4) offers a profound hope that transcends the temporary suffering and decay of the present world.

In summary, from a biblical perspective, the degradation of human health over time is part of the broader narrative of creation, fall, and redemption. It reflects the impact of sin on the physical world and human life, while also pointing forward to the hope of redemption and restoration promised by God.