Topical Encyclopedia Gluttony, defined as excessive indulgence in food and drink, is a vice that stands in stark contrast to the virtues expected of saints. The Bible consistently warns against overindulgence and calls believers to a life of self-control and moderation, aligning with the fruits of the Spirit as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23. Gluttony is not merely a physical act but a spiritual issue that reflects a heart not fully surrendered to God.Biblical Warnings Against Gluttony The Scriptures provide clear admonitions against gluttony, emphasizing its inconsistency with a life devoted to holiness. Proverbs 23:20-21 warns, "Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags." This passage highlights the destructive consequences of gluttony, both materially and spiritually. In the New Testament, the apostle Paul exhorts believers to exercise self-discipline. In Philippians 3:19 , he describes those who live as enemies of the cross of Christ, stating, "Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things." Here, Paul equates gluttony with idolatry, as it places bodily desires above spiritual devotion. Gluttony and the Call to Holiness Saints are called to a life of holiness, which includes mastery over one's appetites. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds believers, "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies." This passage underscores the responsibility of Christians to honor God through disciplined living, including their eating habits. The virtue of self-control is further emphasized in Titus 2:11-12 , which states, "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age." Gluttony, as a worldly passion, is incompatible with the godly life to which believers are called. The Example of Christ Jesus Christ, the ultimate example for believers, demonstrated a life of moderation and self-control. During His time on earth, He often fasted and taught about the importance of spiritual nourishment over physical sustenance. In Matthew 4:4 , Jesus responds to Satan's temptation by quoting Scripture: "Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." This highlights the priority of spiritual over physical needs. Practical Implications for Believers For saints, the battle against gluttony involves cultivating a heart that seeks satisfaction in God rather than in earthly pleasures. Romans 13:14 advises, "Instead, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh." This directive calls believers to actively resist the temptations of gluttony by focusing on their identity in Christ and the eternal rewards of a disciplined life. In summary, gluttony is inconsistent with the life of a saint, as it contradicts the biblical call to self-control, holiness, and devotion to God. By following the example of Christ and adhering to scriptural teachings, believers can overcome the temptation of gluttony and live lives that honor God. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Peter 4:3For the time past of our life may suffice us to have worked the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revelings, parties, and abominable idolatries: Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Index of Subjects. Preparation for Revival "Bought with a Price" 1 Cor. Iv. 6 The Danger of Riches Homilies on the Gospel of John. Period iii. The Critical Period: AD 140 to AD 200 part ii Resources Did Jesus drink wine/alcohol? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the seven deadly sins? | GotQuestions.org Does the Bible really say that parents should have their rebellious children stoned? | GotQuestions.org Gluttony: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gluttony is Inconsistent in Saints Gluttony of Princes, Ruinous to Their People Gluttony: Christ Was Falsely Accused of Gluttony: Danger of, Illustrated Gluttony: General Scriptures Concerning Gluttony: Leads to Carnal Security Gluttony: Pray Against Temptations To Gluttony: The Wicked Addicted To Related Terms |
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