The Bible discusses dietary laws, including restrictions on certain seafood in the Old Testament. However, in the New Testament, these laws are lifted, emphasizing that it’s not what goes into the body but what comes out of the heart that matters. Let’s explore the Bible’s teachings on food and how they apply to seafood and dietary choices today.
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What Does The Bible Say About Seafood
Leviticus 11:9-12
“These you may eat of all that are in the waters: whatever has fins and scales in the waters, in the seas or in the rivers, that you may eat. But all in the seas or in the rivers that do not have fins and scales, all that move in the water or any living thing which is in the water, they are an abomination to you. They shall be an abomination to you; you shall not eat their flesh, but you shall regard their carcasses as an abomination. Whatever in the water does not have fins or scales; that shall be an abomination to you.”
This verse from Leviticus gives specific guidelines on what types of seafood are permissible for consumption. It states that seafood with both fins and scales, such as certain species of fish, can be eaten. However, seafood without fins and scales, including shellfish, are considered an abomination and should not be consumed.
This dietary restriction was part of the Old Testament laws given to the Israelites to promote holiness and obedience. While Christians are not bound by these specific dietary laws, some individuals may choose to follow them as a personal conviction or cultural practice.
Matthew 15:11
“What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.”
Jesus teaches in this verse that what a person eats does not defile or make them unclean. In the context of the passage, Jesus was addressing the Pharisees who were criticizing his disciples for not following certain ceremonial handwashing rituals. Jesus emphasizes that true defilement comes from the evil words and intentions that come out of a person’s heart.
While this verse does not specifically address seafood, it presents a broader principle regarding food and defilement. As Christians, our focus should be on purity of heart and righteousness rather than rigid dietary restrictions.
Acts 10:13-15
“Then a voice said to him, ‘Get up, Peter; kill and eat.’ But Peter said, ‘Surely not, Lord! I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.’ The voice spoke to him a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’
These verses recount a vision that the apostle Peter had regarding the acceptance of Gentiles into the Christian faith. In the vision, Peter sees a sheet with various animals, including non-kosher animals according to Jewish dietary laws. The voice tells Peter to eat, but Peter hesitates because he had always strictly followed Jewish dietary laws.
The significance of this vision extends beyond the topic of seafood. It signifies a shift in understanding for Peter and the early Christians, that through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament were fulfilled and no longer binding. This includes the dietary restrictions mentioned in Leviticus. As a result, Christians are no longer required to follow these specific food laws.
1 Timothy 4:4-5
“For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.”
In this passage, Paul encourages Timothy to reject teachings that prohibit certain foods. He teaches that everything God created is good and should not be rejected if received with thanksgiving. By consecrating the food with the word of God and prayer, it becomes acceptable for consumption.
This verse emphasizes the freedom Christians have when it comes to dietary choices. While moderation and gratitude are important, there is no specific requirement to avoid certain foods based on cultural or religious restrictions.
Mark 7:19
“For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.)”
Jesus declared all foods clean, thereby nullifying the strict dietary laws of the Old Testament. In this verse, He explains that what a person eats does not defile them spiritually, as the food passes through the body and does not affect the heart or soul.
This statement by Jesus further reinforces the freedom Christians have when it comes to dietary choices. We are no longer bound by the dietary restrictions of the Old Testament but are called to focus on matters of the heart and living a life in accordance with God’s principles.
Romans 14:2
“One person’s faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables.”
Paul addresses the topic of dietary preferences in the context of Christian freedom. He acknowledges that some may have strong faith and are able to eat any food without feeling condemned or defiled. However, there are others with weak faith who choose to only eat vegetables to avoid potential conflicts or stumbling for their conscience.
This verse teaches that while there may be personal differences in dietary choices, it is important to respect one another’s convictions and not pass judgment on those whose preferences differ from our own. The focus should be on unity and love within the body of Christ rather than personal dietary beliefs.
1 Corinthians 8:8
“But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do.”
This verse highlights the insignificance of food in terms of one’s relationship with God. Whether a person eats certain foods or abstains from them does not affect their standing before God. The act of eating or not eating particular foods does not make a person more or less righteous.
While food is a necessary part of life, it should not become a source of division or contention among believers. The focus should be on cultivating a heart of gratitude and serving God with sincerity, rather than placing undue importance on specific dietary practices.
1 Corinthians 10:25-26
“Eat anything sold in the meat market without raising questions of conscience, for, ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.'”
Paul gives instructions to the Corinthians regarding their interactions with the local meat market. He advises them not to be overly concerned with the origin or previous use of the meat but to eat without questioning their conscience. He reminds them that everything belongs to the Lord.
This passage reaffirms the freedom Christians have to eat a variety of foods without being burdened by legalistic rules or scruples. While it is important to be mindful of food sources and ethical considerations, the emphasis lies on maintaining a clear conscience and viewing all things as belonging to God.
Colossians 2:16-17
“Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.”
Paul encourages the believers in Colossae not to allow others to judge them based on their dietary choices or observance of religious festivals or rituals. He explains that these practices were merely shadows or symbols pointing to the coming of Christ, who is the true substance.
As Christians, our focus should not be on external practices or dietary restrictions but on our relationship with Christ. We are no longer bound by these outward observances but seek a deeper understanding of our faith in Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of all religious symbols and rituals.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“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 verse highlights the importance of honoring and caring for our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. As Christians, we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, and our bodies belong to God. Therefore, we should make choices that honor God in all aspects of our lives, including our dietary choices.
While not directly addressing seafood, this verse reminds believers to approach their food choices with wisdom and moderation, considering the well-being of their bodies and seeking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It encourages us to view our bodies as precious and to make choices that honor God and promote overall well-being.
1 Timothy 4:3-4
“They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.”
In this passage, Paul warns against the false teachings of those who prohibit marriage and restrict certain foods. He asserts that these prohibitions contradict the truth and the goodness of God’s creation. He affirms that everything God created is good and can be received with thanksgiving by believers.
This verse emphasizes that our approach to food should be one of gratitude and recognition of God’s provision. While certain dietary practices may be observed for personal or cultural reasons, it is essential to remember the inherent goodness of God’s creation and to approach food with a heart of thanksgiving.
Genesis 9:3
“Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.”
After the flood, God gives Noah permission to eat meat, expanding the diet previously limited to plants. This verse signifies a shift in the relationship between humans and animals, allowing for the consumption of meat as a source of nutrition.
While this verse does not specifically address seafood, it establishes the broader principle that God has given humans permission to consume various forms of sustenance, including animals from both land and sea. This verse affirms the goodness of God’s provision and the variety of food sources available to humanity.
Proverbs 12:10
“The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of compassion and care for animals. While not directly related to seafood, it serves as a reminder to approach all aspects of life, including food choices, with kindness and consideration for the well-being of God’s creation.
As stewards of the earth, Christians are called to demonstrate love and responsibility towards animals. This may include making informed choices about sustainable and ethical practices regarding seafood consumption, supporting efforts to preserve marine ecosystems, and treating sea creatures with respect and compassion.
John 21:9
“When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it and some bread.”
In this passage, Jesus appears to His disciples after His resurrection, cooking fish over burning coals on the shore. This event signifies Jesus’ physical presence and His ability to provide for their needs.
While this verse does not explicitly discuss the topic of seafood, it highlights the significance of meals and the communal nature of eating. Sharing a meal, even one consisting of fish and bread, can symbolize fellowship, provision, and the presence of Christ among His followers.
Matthew 14:17-19
“‘We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,’ they answered. ‘Bring them here to me,’ he said. And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people.”
This verse describes the miracle of Jesus feeding the multitudes with five loaves of bread and two fish. He displays gratitude for the food, blesses it, and miraculously multiplies it to feed thousands.
Although this verse focuses on the miracle of the multiplication, it demonstrates Jesus’ care for the physical needs of His followers. It serves as a reminder that God is the ultimate provider and can multiply our resources, including food, to meet our needs.
Ecclesiastes 3:13
“That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.”
This verse emphasizes the enjoyment and satisfaction that comes from eating and drinking, highlighting it as a gift from God. It acknowledges the importance of finding pleasure and contentment in our work and the fruits of our labor.
While not directly addressing seafood, this verse reminds us to appreciate the provision of food as a blessing from God. It encourages us to find satisfaction in the nourishment and enjoyment that come from consuming a variety of foods, including seafood, as part of our daily lives.
Proverbs 15:17
“Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.”
This verse emphasizes the value of love and harmony over extravagant meals. It highlights the significance of relationships and the atmosphere in which meals are shared, suggesting that even a simple meal can be enjoyed when love and unity are present.
While this verse does not specifically address seafood, it reminds us of the importance of cultivating healthy relationships and prioritizing love in our interactions, even during meals. It encourages us to focus on the quality of our connections and the atmosphere we create rather than solely on the type or extravagance of the food we consume.
Daniel 1:12-13
“Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see.”
In this passage, Daniel and his fellow Israelites request to be given vegetables and water instead of partaking in the rich royal food offered to them in Babylon. They wanted to adhere to their dietary laws and demonstrate their commitment to God.
This verse presents an example of individuals adhering to dietary choices based on their faith convictions and commitment to God. While not seafood-specific, it illustrates the importance of maintaining personal convictions and principles, even in the face of potential temptations or social pressures.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.”
This verse advises against consuming excessive amounts of food or drink, highlighting the negative consequences that can arise from overindulgence. It warns against gluttony and encourages moderation and self-control.
While not seafood-specific, this verse reminds us of the importance of maintaining balance and discipline in our eating habits. It encourages us to approach food with moderation, focusing on nourishment rather than excessive consumption.
Romans 14:21
“It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.”
Paul addresses the topic of food choices in the context of causing stumbling or offense to others. He advises believers to be considerate of their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ and to refrain from actions that could lead them into temptation or compromise their faith.
This verse calls us to consider the impact our eating habits may have on others and be willing to alter our choices to prioritize unity and love within the body of Christ. It encourages us to be mindful of the beliefs and convictions of those around us, particularly when it comes to matters of food.
Proverbs 25:16
“If you find honey, eat just enough—too much of it, and you will vomit.”
This proverb conveys the importance of self-control and moderation in our consumption. It uses the illustration of honey to warn against excessive indulgence, reminding us that even things that are enjoyable can become detrimental when overindulged.
While not seafood-specific, this verse encourages us to approach our food choices with wisdom and restraint. It emphasizes the significance of self-control and balance in all aspects of our lives, including our eating habits.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Paul reminds believers that in every aspect of life, including eating and drinking, it is vital to do everything for the glory of God. This includes making choices that align with God’s principles and reflect a heart of gratitude and reverence.
While not explicitly addressing seafood, this verse emphasizes the importance of considering our food choices from a perspective of honoring God. It encourages us to seek His guidance and make decisions that align with His will and bring glory to His name in every aspect of our lives.