Turkey isn’t mentioned specifically in the Bible, but the broader topic of food and how we approach it is. Scripture emphasizes gratitude for the food God provides and encourages believers to eat with thankfulness. The focus is on enjoying God’s provision while maintaining balance and not letting food become a source of excess or division.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Pettiness
What Does The Bible Say About Eating Turkey
Leviticus 11:22
“Of them you may eat: the locust of any kind, the bald locust of any kind, the cricket of any kind, and the grasshopper of any kind.”
This verse addresses the topic of permissible insects for consumption according to the dietary laws of the Old Testament. While it does not explicitly mention eating turkey, it serves as a reminder that God provided guidelines for what is clean and unclean for His people.
In the context of eating turkey, we can apply the general principle of following God’s instructions and discerning what is suitable for food. As believers, it is essential to honor God with our choices, whether it is in the specific context of eating or in any other aspect of our lives.
Genesis 9:3
“Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you. And as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything.”
After the flood, God gave Noah and his family permission to eat meat, expanding their dietary options. This verse signifies God’s provision for humanity, granting them the freedom to enjoy the abundance of His creation.
Applying this verse to the context of eating turkey, we can recognize that consuming various animals, including turkey, falls within the range of God’s permission. This verse reminds us to gratefully receive and enjoy the blessings God provides for our sustenance.
Acts 10:13-15
“And there came a voice to him: ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ But Peter said, ‘By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.’ And the voice came to him again a second time, ‘What God has made clean, do not call common.’”
This passage recounts Peter’s vision, where God challenged his understanding of clean and unclean foods. It signifies the new covenant in Christ, where dietary restrictions are no longer binding and all food can be seen as clean.
While the focus is not specifically on eating turkey, this verse highlights the importance of not categorizing any food as unclean or unworthy to be consumed. It signifies the freedom found in Christ and encourages us to approach our food choices with gratitude and a clear conscience.
1 Timothy 4:3-5
“They forbid marriage and require abstinence from foods that God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. 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.”
This passage addresses false teachings that impose abstinence from certain foods. The apostle Paul emphasizes that all food created by God is good and can be received with thanksgiving by believers.
When considering the consumption of turkey, we can apply this verse to understanding that no specific food is inherently unrighteous or impure. Instead, it is our attitude of gratitude and recognition of God’s provision that sanctifies our meals.
Romans 14:1-3
“As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables. Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him.”
The apostle Paul addresses differences in perspectives regarding dietary choices in this passage. He encourages believers to extend hospitality and acceptance to one another, regardless of their personal convictions on what is permissible to eat.
In the context of eating turkey, this verse reminds us to approach discussions and debates around food choices with love, respect, and unity in Christ. While some may choose to include turkey in their diet, it is crucial to avoid judgment towards those who may have different preferences or convictions.
Colossians 2:16-17
“Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.”
Paul teaches the Colossians not to let others criticize or condemn them concerning matters of food and drink. He explains that these regulations were mere shadows of the greater reality found in Christ.
Applying this verse to the topic of eating turkey, it encourages believers not to be burdened by legalistic requirements, traditions, or cultural expectations surrounding food choices. Instead, our focus should be on our relationship with Christ, recognizing that He is the fulfillment of all righteousness.
Mark 7:18-19
“And he said to them, ‘Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?’ (Thus he declared all foods clean.)”
In these words, Jesus challenges the Pharisees’ focus on external rituals and regulations while neglecting the heart. He explains that the food one consumes does not defile a person but is simply a physical process.
While this verse does not explicitly mention turkey or any specific food, it highlights Jesus’ teaching that true defilement comes from within, from the intentions and attitudes of the heart, rather than from external factors like food choices.
Matthew 4:4
“But he answered, ‘It is written, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”’”
Jesus quotes this verse when tempted by the devil in the wilderness. He emphasizes that true sustenance and life are found not only in physical nourishment but also in the spiritual nourishment derived from the Word of God.
Applying this verse to the topic of eating turkey, it reminds believers that food is important for our physical sustenance, but it should never overshadow our dependence on God and His Word for true life and spiritual nourishment.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Be not among drunkards or among gluttonous eaters of meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.”
This passage advises against indulging in excessive eating and warns of the consequences of gluttony. It reminds believers to exercise self-control and moderation in their eating habits.
While the focus here is not on eating turkey specifically, this verse encourages believers to approach all meals, including those featuring turkey, with moderation and gratitude, avoiding extravagance or unhealthy consumption practices.
Isaiah 55:2
“Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.”
This verse challenges the Israelites to consider their priorities and investments. It urges them to seek true satisfaction by listening to God’s teachings and consuming what is genuinely nourishing.
Applying this verse to the context of eating turkey, it encourages believers not to prioritize worldly desires or chase after empty pleasures but to find delight in the goodness of God’s provision. When enjoying the richness of turkey or any other food, let us do so with hearts turned towards the Lord.
Psalm 104:14-15
“You cause the grass to grow for the livestock and plants for man to cultivate, that he may bring forth food from the earth and wine to gladden the heart of man, oil to make his face shine and bread to strengthen man’s heart.”
This psalm praises God for His provision of food and natural resources. It acknowledges that God’s creation supplies abundant sustenance, including crops, wine, and oil, to bring joy and nourishment to humanity.
Applying this verse to the topic of eating turkey, it underscores God’s providence in providing various sources of nourishment. As we partake in the goodness of turkey, let us acknowledge and give thanks for God’s bountiful provision.
John 6:35
“Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.’”
Jesus declares Himself as the source of true satisfaction and sustenance. He offers eternal nourishment to those who come to Him in faith, promising that they will never experience spiritual hunger or thirst.
While this verse does not directly address eating turkey, it reminds believers that our ultimate fulfillment comes from a relationship with Christ and the spiritual nourishment He provides. As we enjoy physical nourishment like turkey, may it serve as a reminder of our deeper need for Jesus, the bread of life.
Luke 14:15
“When one of those who reclined at table with him heard these things, he said to him, ‘Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!’”
During a meal, a guest responds to Jesus’ teaching by expressing an anticipation of the blessings awaiting those who will partake in the kingdom of God.
While this verse does not specifically mention eating turkey, it points to the future joy and abundance believers will experience in the kingdom of God. As we enjoy the goodness of turkey, let it remind us of the greater feast and eternal blessings awaiting us in the kingdom.
Psalm 136:25
“He gives food to every creature. His love endures forever.”
This psalm emphasizes God’s continuous provision of food to all living beings. It acknowledges His enduring love expressed through the sustenance He generously supplies.
Applying this verse to the context of eating turkey, it reminds us to recognize that God’s love is evident even in the provision of specific food items. Every meal, including those featuring turkey, serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and love for His creation.
1 Corinthians 6:20
“For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
Paul reminds believers that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, purchased at a great price through Christ’s sacrifice. He urges them to honor God with their bodies in all aspects of life, including their eating habits.
Applying this verse to the topic of eating turkey, it encourages believers to approach food choices with reverence, recognizing that our bodies are not our own but belong to God. As we enjoy the bounty of turkey, let us glorify God by caring for our bodies and making choices that align with His will.
Romans 14:6
“The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God.”
Paul addresses the matter of personal convictions and choices regarding days of observance and eating. He emphasizes that whatever one chooses to do, it should be done in honor of the Lord, accompanied by gratitude.
In the context of eating turkey, this verse encourages believers to approach their meal choices with a heart of thanksgiving and a desire to honor God. Whether one chooses to eat turkey or abstain for personal reasons, the focus should always be on expressing gratitude to God.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Paul’s exhortation in this verse calls believers to glorify God in every aspect of their lives, whether it involves eating, drinking, or any other daily activity.
In the context of eating turkey, it reminds us that our choices in meals should reflect a desire to bring glory to God. Whether we eat turkey or any other food, let it be done in a manner that aligns with God’s principles and honors His name.
1 Timothy 6:17
“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.”
Paul instructs Timothy regarding the attitudes and priorities of those who possess wealth. He advises them not to be arrogant or place their trust in material possessions but instead to recognize that it is God who abundantly supplies everything for our enjoyment.
In the context of eating turkey, this verse reminds us to approach the enjoyment of food, including turkey, with humility and gratitude. Let us recognize that everything we have is ultimately from God’s hand, including the delicious meals we are blessed to partake in.
Psalm 34:8
“Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.”
This psalm encourages the readers to personally experience and recognize the goodness of the Lord. It speaks of the blessedness found in seeking refuge in Him.
While this verse does not directly mention eating turkey, it serves as a reminder to savor the goodness of God in all areas of our lives, even in the simple pleasure of enjoying a delicious meal like turkey. Let us always find refuge and satisfaction in Him.
Psalm 107:9
“For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.”
This verse highlights God’s ability to satisfy the deepest longings and nourish the hungry with good things.
Applying this verse to the context of eating turkey, it reminds believers that our physical hunger and satisfaction find fulfillment in God. While enjoying the deliciousness of turkey, let us be mindful of the One who fills our souls abundantly with good things.
Proverbs 15:17
“Better is a dinner of herbs where love is than a fattened ox and hatred with it.”
This proverb emphasizes the importance of love and unity, promoting the idea that a simple meal shared in love is more valuable than a luxurious feast overshadowed by hatred.
In the context of eating turkey, this verse reminds us that the atmosphere and relationships surrounding the meal are more significant than the extravagance of the food itself. It is the love, gratitude, and fellowship shared that truly enhance the experience of enjoying a turkey meal.
1 Corinthians 11:24-25
“and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.’”
Paul recounts Jesus’ institution of the Lord’s Supper and the instructions to remember Him through partaking of the bread and wine symbolizing His body and blood.
While this verse does not speak directly about eating turkey, it emphasizes the importance of remembrance and reflection during meals. As we partake in any meal, turkey included, let us remember the sacrifice of Jesus and express gratitude for the new covenant established through His blood.