What Does the Bible Say About Obesity?

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.

The Bible doesn’t specifically address obesity in the modern sense. However, it does talk about gluttony, self-control, and taking care of one’s body. Gluttony, often associated with excessive eating, is mentioned as something to avoid. The emphasis is more on moderation and discipline in all aspects of life, including eating habits.

The Bible encourages taking care of the body, which is seen as a temple of the Holy Spirit. This view extends to how we treat our bodies, including our diet and lifestyle. The idea is to live in a way that honors God, which includes making healthy choices.

Curious about what the Bible says regarding healthy living and self-discipline? Dive deeper to understand how biblical principles can be applied to contemporary issues like obesity.

What Does the Bible Say About Obesity?

While the Bible does not directly address the issue of obesity as we understand it today, it offers principles that relate to health, self-discipline, and the stewardship of our bodies.

The concept of gluttony in the Bible is often linked to overindulgence in food and drink. This is seen as a lack of self-control, which is a fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians. The Bible doesn’t just label gluttony as a sin but highlights it as an example of a broader issue of self-discipline and moderation.

Treating the body as a temple is a significant principle in the Bible, especially in the New Testament. The body is described as a temple of the Holy Spirit, and believers are urged to honor God with their bodies. This extends to all aspects of health and well-being, including diet and physical health.

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Eating and enjoying food is not seen as wrong in the Bible. Jesus Himself attended feasts and shared meals with others. However, the emphasis is always on moderation and gratitude. The Bible promotes a balanced view, where food is a source of nourishment and joy but not an object of excess.

God’s view on our physical health is caring and holistic. He cares about our well-being, which includes our physical health. While the Bible doesn’t specifically discuss obesity, the principles of self-control, moderation, and respecting the body provide a strong foundation for addressing issues related to overeating and physical health.

The Bible also speaks about the value of physical work and activity. In several parables and teachings, physical labor is portrayed as something positive and necessary. This can be extended to the importance of physical activity for maintaining health.

In summary, the Bible, while not specifically addressing obesity, provides principles on living a balanced and disciplined life. These principles encourage believers to take care of their bodies, practice self-control, and live in a way that honors God.

Bible Verses About Obesity

  1. Proverbs 23:20-21 – “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” This warns against overindulgence.
  2. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit… Therefore honor God with your bodies.” This highlights the importance of respecting the body.
  3. Galatians 5:22-23 – Lists the fruit of the Spirit, including self-control, which is relevant in the context of managing eating habits.
  4. Philippians 4:5 – “Let your moderation be known unto all men.” This verse advocates for a balanced lifestyle.
  5. 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” This suggests that our eating habits can and should honor God.
  6. Proverbs 25:16 – “If you find honey, eat just enough— too much of it, and you will vomit.” This proverb is about moderation in consumption.
  7. Proverbs 25:27 – “It is not good to eat too much honey, nor is it honorable to search out matters that are too deep.” Again emphasizing moderation.
  8. 1 Timothy 4:8 – “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things.” This suggests a balance between physical and spiritual health.
  9. 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” This can be interpreted to include self-control in all aspects of life, including eating habits.
  10. Proverbs 16:26 – “The appetite of laborers works for them; their hunger drives them on.” This verse can be seen as an encouragement for physical activity and labor, promoting a healthy balance between work, physical activity, and eating.
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In conclusion, while the Bible does not specifically mention obesity, it offers wisdom about principles that are relevant to the topic. It encourages moderation, self-control, and respect for the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. The emphasis is on a balanced lifestyle that honors God not only spiritually but also physically.