Some Christian believers wonder whether consuming pork is acceptable according to the Bible. In short, the Old Testament prohibits the consumption of pork, deeming it unclean, as seen in Leviticus 11:7 and Deuteronomy 14:8. However, the New Testament offers a differing perspective, with passages like Mark 7:19 suggesting that no foods are inherently unclean, allowing for individual dietary decisions.
Dive in to find out more about the divine perspective on pork consumption!
What Does the Bible Say About Eating Pork?
The Bible’s perspective on eating pork has been a matter of thoughtful consideration among Christians. In the Old Testament, it is explicitly stated that pork is considered unclean, and hence, not fit for consumption. The book of Leviticus puts it quite straightforwardly, mentioning that though the pig has a divided hoof, it does not chew the cud and is therefore unclean.
Additionally, the Bible’s stance on consuming pork is corroborated in Deuteronomy, where it reiterates the prohibition against eating any animal that does not meet the specified criteria of having a divided hoof and chewing the cud.
However, the introduction of the New Testament brings a significant shift in this perspective. Jesus, emphasizing the purity of the heart over dietary restrictions, marked a departure from the stringent food laws of the Old Testament. In Mark 7:19, it is highlighted that it is not what goes into the body that defiles a person, but what comes out of it, referring to our words and actions.
Moreover, the Apostle Paul, in his letters, also echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that believers should not judge one another based on dietary choices and that all food can be considered clean if it is received with thanksgiving.
Interestingly, these contrasting viewpoints within the Bible raise thoughtful reflections on the balance between adhering to the old laws and embracing the grace and freedom brought about by Jesus. The discerning Christian is thus left to consider God’s view on the matter and reconcile their beliefs and practices in light of the entire scripture.
It is crucial to reflect on these scriptures and understand that while the Old Testament laid down the law, the New Testament often emphasizes grace, love, and personal conviction. It points towards a more inclusive approach, allowing individuals to decide what is allowed and suitable for them to consume, keeping in mind the overarching principles of love, acceptance, and respect for differing convictions within the Christian community.
Bible Verses About Eating Pork
Leviticus 11:7 states, “And the pig, though it has a divided hoof, does not chew the cud; it is unclean for you.” This verse is explicit in its declaration of the pig being an unclean animal, making its consumption a sin according to Old Testament law.
Following this, Deuteronomy 14:8 says, “The pig is also unclean; although it has a divided hoof, it does not chew the cud. You are not to eat their meat or touch their carcasses.” This verse reaffirms the prohibition, adding an additional layer by advising against even touching the carcass of a pig.
In contrast, the New Testament provides a broader perspective on food consumption. Mark 7:19 states, “For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” Jesus, in this passage, implies that no food can defile a person; it is rather the words and actions that come out of a person that matter.
The perspective on dietary laws is further elaborated by Paul in Romans 14:14, “I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean.” This emphasizes the idea of individual conviction and personal belief in determining what is considered clean or unclean.
Paul, extending the concept of individual freedom in dietary choices, writes in 1 Timothy 4:4-5, “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.” Here, Paul is accentuating that everything created by God is good, and rejecting any of God’s creation is not necessary if it is received with a thankful heart.