Introduction

The question of whether eating beef is permissible according to the Bible is a common discussion among Christians. This article explores the biblical teachings on diet and obedience, emphasizing the historical and contextual significance of these teachings. We will analyze key verses and the overarching principles to provide insights that can guide Christian believers today.

Permissions from Genesis to the New Testament

Genesis 9:3

Perhaps the most direct source for dietary guidance is found in Genesis 9:3, where it states, 'Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you even as the green herb have I given you all things.' This verse appears to lift some restrictions on meat eating following the flood, indicating a broader allowance for meat consumption.

However, this permission is not absolute. The Bible emphasizes obedience to God's commands and the principle that true worship is about spiritual adherence rather than mere ritualistic practices. As Samuel affirms, 'And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.' This principle of obeying God's voice rather than ceremonial practices is echoed in the New Testament.

New Covenant and the Renewed Mindset

Romans 12:2

The New Testament stresses the importance of a transformed mindset, aligning it with God's will. Romans 12:2 encourages Christians to 'be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.'

This principle embodied in the New Testament context is applicable even to modern interpretations of biblical commands. The central dictate of Jesus to 'do all to the glory of God' (1 Cor 10:31) serves as a guiding light for Christians to seek spiritual fulfillment and glory in everything they do, including their dietary choices.

The Specificity of Old Testament Laws

One doctrinal distinction to be noted is the specific rules set forth in the Old Testament, such as the dietary laws in Leviticus 11:1-47. These laws instructed Israelites on acceptable and unacceptable foods, highlighting the significance of purity and obedience to God's commandments.

Deuteronomy 14:8-10

For instance, Deuteronomy 14:8-10 outlines certain dietary restrictions, including the prohibition of eating pork due to the pig being "a swine, which parteth the hoof, but taketh not up the hoof: an unclean beast unto you." These laws, though specific to the Israelite covenant, remain instructive for understanding the broader themes of obedience and purity.

It is worth noting that while these laws are part of the Old Testament, the New Testament emphasizes spiritual truth over specific ritualistic commands. According to Jesus, the fulfillment is in the spirit rather than the letter of the law.

The Validity of Jesus' Teachings

Matthew 5:17-19

Jesus affirms the permanence and importance of the Law in Matthew 5:17-19: 'Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.' This passage emphasizes the enduring value of the Law, even in its specific details, but with a focus on the spirit behind the law.

Conclusion: Obedience and Spiritual Fulfillment

The Scriptures teach us that while certain dietary restrictions are not binding for all Christians, the principle of obedience and spiritual fulfillment is paramount. The New Testament’s emphasis on obeying the voice of the Lord and renewing one's mind to God's will guides us in making informed decisions in all aspects of our lives, including our diet. Christians today can draw comfort and guidance from these biblical principles to live in accordance with God's will.

Keywords: Bible, eating beef, Christian diet