What Does the Bible Say About Eating?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary holds a degree in theology and she has a deep understanding of biblical texts. She works as an elementary school teacher in Alabama.

Curious about what the Bible has to say about eating? Well, here’s the scoop: It’s got a lot to say about food, from what’s allowed to what’s not. If you’re interested in knowing more, keep reading.

Hungry for some divine wisdom on what’s on your plate? The Bible’s got some tasty insights about eating that might surprise you. Let’s dig in!

What Does the Bible Say About Eating?

When it comes to food, the Bible serves up some guidance. You see, it’s not just a recipe book; it’s a spiritual guide too. So, what’s the deal with eating according to God’s view?

First things first, the Bible tells us that everything God created is good (1 Timothy 4:4). That means the food on your plate is a gift from the Creator. So, no need to feel guilty about enjoying a delicious meal.

But, hold on a minute! The Bible also talks about certain foods being off-limits. In the Old Testament, there were dietary laws that restricted the consumption of certain animals. You’ve probably heard about not eating pork or shellfish; these are some of the rules laid out in Leviticus and Deuteronomy.

Fast forward to the New Testament, and things take a bit of a turn. Jesus himself said that it’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you but what comes out of it (Matthew 15:11). In other words, it’s not about what you eat; it’s about what’s in your heart.

The Apostle Paul chimed in too, emphasizing that believers have the freedom to eat whatever they want but should be considerate of others’ beliefs and not cause them to stumble (1 Corinthians 10:23-33). So, while the Old Testament dietary laws are no longer binding, being mindful of others is still a good rule of thumb.

See also  What Does the Bible Say About Sisterhood?

Bible Verses About Eating

  1. “Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything.” – Genesis 9:3
  1. “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.” – 1 Timothy 4:4
  1. “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
  1. “Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats.” – Romans 14:20
  1. “And God said, ‘Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.'” – Genesis 1:29
  1. “But he answered, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”‘” – Matthew 4:4
  1. “Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.” – 1 Corinthians 8:13

That’s a taste of what the Bible has to say about eating. Keep reading to dive deeper into this fascinating topic and uncover more biblical insights on food and faith.