What are your feelings about eating meat?
As Christians, our lives are guided by the Word of God, and this includes how we approach issues like eating meat. For some, the question of whether to eat meat or abstain from it may feel like a personal preference, while for others, it may carry spiritual or ethical implications. Let’s explore this topic through a biblical lens.
Biblical Perspective on Eating Meat
The Bible offers several insights into eating meat, starting from creation to the New Testament.
1. God’s Original Design
In the Garden of Eden, God provided a vegetarian diet for Adam and Eve. Genesis 1:29 says:
“Then God said, ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.’”
Initially, God’s provision was plant-based, reflecting a peaceful coexistence between humans and animals.
2. After the Fall and the Flood
After the flood, God permitted Noah and his descendants to eat meat. In Genesis 9:3, God says:
“Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.”
This marked a shift where eating meat was explicitly sanctioned by God, demonstrating His provision for humanity in a changed world.
3. Under the Law of Moses
In the Old Testament, dietary laws were introduced. Certain animals were deemed clean and fit for consumption, while others were not (Leviticus 11). These laws served spiritual, cultural, and health purposes, setting Israel apart as God’s chosen people.
4. Freedom in Christ
In the New Testament, dietary restrictions were lifted for Christians. In Acts 10:13-15, Peter is shown a vision where God declares all animals clean, saying:
“Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.”
Paul also emphasizes freedom in this matter, encouraging believers not to judge others for their dietary choices (Romans 14:2-3, 1 Corinthians 10:31).
Christian Liberty and Responsibility
Eating meat is not a sin, and believers are free to include it in their diets. However, this freedom comes with responsibilities:
1. Gratitude
Whatever we eat, we should receive it with thanksgiving, as it is sanctified by the Word of God and prayer (1 Timothy 4:4-5). Whether it is meat or plant-based food, we acknowledge God as the ultimate Provider.
2. Respect for Others
Romans 14 teaches us to be mindful of others’ convictions. If eating meat offends a fellow believer’s conscience, we are encouraged to act in love and avoid causing them to stumble (Romans 14:20-21).
3. Stewardship of Creation
God has entrusted us with the care of His creation (Genesis 1:28). Whether we eat meat or not, we are called to treat animals and the environment with respect and avoid wastefulness or cruelty.
4. Health and Wisdom
Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Being mindful of what we eat, including meat, reflects stewardship of our health. Balance and moderation are key.
A Personal Reflection
My feeling about eating meat is shaped by gratitude for God’s provision and freedom in Christ. While I do eat meat, I aim to approach it with a heart of thankfulness, making choices that honor God, respect others, and care for creation. For those who choose not to eat meat, their decision is equally valid and can also glorify God.
Ultimately, the focus should not be on whether we eat meat or abstain from it but on whether we do so with a heart that seeks to glorify God in all things. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:31:
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
In Christ’s love,
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
corneliusbella 