Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, food is often depicted as a direct provision from God, symbolizing His care, sustenance, and covenant with His people. The concept of food from God is woven throughout Scripture, from the creation account to the eschatological visions of the New Testament.Creation and Provision The Bible begins with God’s provision of food in the Garden of Eden. Genesis 1:29 states, "Then God said, 'Behold, I have given you every seed-bearing plant on the face of all the earth and every tree whose fruit contains seed. They will be yours for food.'" This initial provision underscores the abundance and generosity of God’s creation, where food is a gift meant to sustain life. Manna in the Wilderness One of the most significant instances of divine provision is the manna given to the Israelites during their wilderness journey. In Exodus 16:4 , the Lord declares, "Behold, I will rain down bread from heaven for you." This miraculous sustenance lasted for forty years, teaching the Israelites reliance on God’s daily provision and His faithfulness. The manna is later referenced in the New Testament as a type of Christ, the true bread from heaven (John 6:31-35). Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath In 1 Kings 17, during a time of drought and famine, God provides for the prophet Elijah through a widow in Zarephath. The widow’s jar of flour and jug of oil do not run dry, as promised by the Lord (1 Kings 17:14). This narrative highlights God’s ability to provide in seemingly impossible circumstances and His care for both His prophets and the faithful. Feeding of the Multitudes The New Testament records Jesus’ miraculous feeding of the multitudes, further illustrating God’s provision through Christ. In Matthew 14:19-20 , Jesus takes five loaves and two fish, looks up to heaven, and blesses them, feeding over five thousand people. This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus’ compassion but also His divine authority and ability to meet physical and spiritual needs. The Lord’s Supper The institution of the Lord’s Supper is another profound example of food as a divine gift. In Matthew 26:26-28 , Jesus breaks bread and shares wine with His disciples, symbolizing His body and blood given for the forgiveness of sins. This sacrament is a means of grace, a spiritual nourishment that believers partake in remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice. Eschatological Banquet The Bible concludes with the promise of an eschatological banquet, a future feast in the kingdom of God. Revelation 19:9 proclaims, "Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb." This imagery of a divine banquet signifies the ultimate fulfillment of God’s provision and the eternal fellowship between God and His people. Throughout Scripture, food from God is a recurring theme that reflects His provision, care, and covenant relationship with humanity. It serves as a reminder of His faithfulness and the spiritual sustenance found in Him alone. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 1:29,30And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 9:3 Genesis 48:15 Psalm 23:5 Psalm 103:5 Psalm 104:14,15 Psalm 111:5 Psalm 136:25 Psalm 145:15 Psalm 147:9 Proverbs 30:8 Isaiah 3:1 Matthew 6:11 Romans 14:14,21 1 Timothy 4:3-5 Greek 3131. manna -- manna ... Israelites in the desert: of spiritual food. 3131 -- literally, "What is it?" -- the question asked by the wandering Israelites in the OT when God gave them ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3131.htm - 7k 740. artos -- bread, a loaf 4561. sarx -- flesh Library God the Loving Creator He Asserts, Moreover, that "The Body of a God is not Nourished ... Arguments of the Psychics, Drawn from the Law, the Gospel, the ... Argument. --But There was a Limit to the Use of These Shadows or ... Some of God's Laws Defended as Good, which the Marcionites ... The Sermon on the Mount. Separation to God. Discourse on Spiritual Food and True Discipleship. Peter's ... Rule for Interpreting those Sayings and Actions which are Ascribed ... Argument. --He First of all Asserts that the Law is Spiritual; and ... Resources What does the Bible say about eating junk food? | GotQuestions.orgIs it allowable for a Christian to eat halal food? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about eating food/meat that has been sacrificed to idols? | GotQuestions.org Food: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Commissary for Armies, Cattle Driven With Food: Articles of a Hymn Sung Afterward Food: Articles of Men and Women did not Partake Together Food: Articles of Parched (Roasted) Corn (Grain) Food: Articles of Prepared by Females Food: Articles of Thanks Given Before Receiving Food: Things Prohibited As Food Related Terms |