1 Timothy 4:1–5 (ESV) — 1 Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times
some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and
teachings of demons, 2 through the insincerity of liars whose consciences
are seared, 3 who forbid marriage and require abstinence from
foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe
and know the truth. 4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing
is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.
NOTE: This is a very
important verse because it addresses a movement that is overtaking many
Christians these days, and it is the return to a diet dictated by the OT law.
God calls this a departure from the faith. Verse 3 clearly says that abstinence
from food is one sign. And verse 4 and 5 clarify the type of food by saying
"For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if
it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and
prayer." It is okay to choose not to eat pork or shellfish, but if we
believe such diet makes us holier or pleases God in some way, we are deceived.
And if we teach it, we are deceiving others. We need to be very careful in what
we teach to others. We are no longer under the law. Christ has set us free from
all the dictates of the law. If we return to the law in any spiritual endeavor,
we are putting ourselves under the law. It is a very dangerous thing to lead
astray the children of God.
PRAYER: Father, give
me insight and sensitivity to these issues. Help me to see where I am using
conjecture and not solid bible study in my teaching of the word of God. Open my
eyes to the wondrous truths of your law.
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