Vegetarianism, a Doctrine of Devils

1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;
3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Every generation has their own set of ritualistic practices: vegetarianism, the refusal to eat meat, and veganism, the refusal to eat any animal product, are increasingly popular today. The problems arise when proponents of these practices seek to promote the idea that meat eating is evil and should be eliminated. Today’s passage proves that the scriptures teach just the opposite. In fact, any individual preaching or teaching a necessary abstinence from eating meat is preaching a doctrine of devils. Regardless of what the modern doctors, scientists, or latest fad diets prescribe, the Bible clearly states that God does not intend for His people to abstain from eating meat. Much of the modern movement stems from an idolatrous view of the animal kingdom. Yet, God clearly provided animals for man’s survival and continuation.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):Read Psalm 139:14. When you eat, your body gets rid of anything it cannot use (Matthew 15:17). What you eat has nothing to do with God accepting you or not accepting you (Romans 14:17). God is more concerned with the sin in your heart (Matthew 15:18-19) and only He can cleanse that (1 John 1:8-10).

(For everyone):Have you ever had someone try to convince you that it was ungodly to eat meat? Where did they get their authority for their position? Was it from scripture taken in context?

(For everyone):God gave beasts to man for food. How would it then be offensive for someone to suggest it is evil to eat the flesh of animals? Why would God call it a doctrine of devils?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Ask the Lord to protect you from those who would choose to deceive you.

Ask the Lord to put a hedge of protection about you.

SONG

My Only Trust Thou Art

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