The Bible addresses unclean foods in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, God gave Israel specific dietary laws, but Jesus brought clarity about these foods in the New Testament. Today, we’ll explore how these teachings apply to us and what they reveal about God’s care for His people.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Sacrifice For Others
What Does The Bible Say About Unclean Foods
Leviticus 11:1-47
“The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying to them, ‘Speak to the people of Israel, saying, These are the living things that you may eat among all the animals that are on the earth. Whatever parts the hoof and is cloven-footed and chews the cud, among the animals, you may eat. Nevertheless, among those that chew the cud or part the hoof, you shall not eat these: the camel, because it chews the cud but does not part the hoof, is unclean to you. And the rock badger, because it chews the cud but does not part the hoof, is unclean to you. And the hare, because it chews the cud but does not part the hoof, is unclean to you. And the pig, because it parts the hoof and is cloven-footed but does not chew the cud, is unclean to you.'”
This passage from Leviticus 11 provides a list of animals that were considered unclean as food for the people of Israel. God gave specific dietary laws to the Israelites to set them apart as His chosen people and to promote holiness and obedience. The animals mentioned here were deemed unclean due to their physical characteristics that did not meet the criteria set by God. As believers, we can draw lessons from these laws to understand the importance of obedience and discernment in our own lives, as God calls us to separate ourselves from things that are spiritually unclean and impure.
While these dietary laws are no longer binding for Christians today, the principles behind them can still be applied to our lives. Just as God called the Israelites to be distinct in their diet, He calls us to be discerning and wise in the choices we make regarding what we consume, both physically and spiritually. We should strive for a lifestyle that promotes holiness and honors God in all areas, including what we eat, drink, watch, read, and listen to. By doing so, we demonstrate our desire to live in accordance with God’s will and reflect His character to the world around us.
Deuteronomy 14:3-21
“You shall not eat any abomination. These are the animals you may eat: the ox, the sheep, the goat, the deer, the gazelle, the roebuck, the wild goat, the ibex, the antelope, and the mountain sheep. Every animal that parts the hoof and has the hoof cloven in two and chews the cud, among the animals, you may eat. Yet of those that chew the cud or have the hoof cloven you shall not eat these: the camel, the hare, and the rock badger, because they chew the cud but do not part the hoof, are unclean for you. And the pig, because it parts the hoof but does not chew the cud, is unclean for you. You shall not eat any of their flesh, and you shall not touch their carcasses; they are unclean to you.'”
This passage from Deuteronomy reiterates the dietary laws set by God for the Israelites, emphasizing the distinction between clean and unclean animals. God’s commandments regarding clean and unclean foods were designed to teach the Israelites about obedience and holiness, as well as to set them apart from the surrounding nations. By observing these laws, they demonstrated their trust and submission to God’s authority. Today, while we are not bound by these dietary restrictions, we can still find valuable lessons in them.
These laws remind us of the importance of discernment and self-control in our lives. We are called to be separate from the ways of the world and to make choices that reflect our devotion to God. Just as the Israelites were to avoid touching or consuming unclean animals, we should be cautious about engaging in or consuming things that are spiritually unclean or harmful to our relationship with God. Through self-discipline and discernment, we can ensure that what we consume, both physically and spiritually, aligns with God’s Word and honors Him.
Isaiah 66:17
“Those who sanctify and purify themselves to go into the gardens, following one in the midst, eating pig’s flesh and the abomination and mice, shall come to an end together, declares the Lord.”
In this verse, the Lord warns against those who engage in idolatrous practices and consume unclean foods. The act of eating pig’s flesh and other abominations is symbolic of participating in sinful and ungodly behaviors. God declares that those who partake in these actions will face judgment and destruction. This verse serves as a reminder to believers that engaging in unclean practices, both physically and spiritually, can lead to spiritual demise.
As Christians, it is crucial to guard our hearts and minds against the temptations and influences of the world. We are called to live holy and set-apart lives, bearing witness to God’s righteousness. Just as God warned the Israelites against consuming unclean foods, He warns us against engaging in sinful behavior that defiles our bodies, minds, and spirits. By avoiding unclean foods and abstaining from sinful practices, we honor God and cultivate a life of purity and obedience.
Acts 10:9-16
“The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 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 happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven.”
In this passage from Acts, Peter has a vision in which God shows him a sheet containing various animals, including those that were considered unclean according to Jewish dietary laws. God instructs Peter to kill and eat these animals, but Peter, being a devout Jew, refuses because of his adherence to the dietary laws. However, God corrects Peter’s understanding by declaring that what He has made clean is not to be considered unclean. This vision signifies a fundamental shift in the way God’s people were to understand and apply dietary laws.
With the coming of Jesus Christ, God’s plan of salvation extended to all people, regardless of their ethnic background or adherence to Jewish customs. The vision given to Peter symbolized God’s acceptance and inclusion of Gentiles into the body of believers. It demonstrated that the dietary restrictions imposed in the Old Testament no longer held the same significance. In Christ, all foods are declared clean, signifying that the focus is no longer on external rituals but on the inward transformation of the heart.
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.”
In the book of Romans, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of dietary restrictions and personal convictions within the Christian community. He highlights that some believers may still have reservations about eating certain foods based on their background or personal convictions, while others have the freedom to eat anything. Paul urges believers not to quarrel or judge one another over these differences but to welcome and accept each other without passing judgment.
This passage teaches us the importance of love, understanding, and unity within the body of Christ. While the dietary laws no longer hold the same significance for believers, personal convictions may still shape individual choices. As followers of Christ, we are called to respect and honor one another’s differences without allowing them to cause division or strife. Instead of focusing on external practices, we should prioritize the love and acceptance of our brothers and sisters in Christ.
1 Timothy 4:1-5
“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, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared, who 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.”
In this passage, Paul warns Timothy about the false teachings that would arise in later times, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in the truth. One of the false teachings he specifically addresses is the forbidding of certain foods and the requirement of abstinence, which goes against the freedom and goodness that God has bestowed upon His creation. Paul emphasizes that everything created by God is inherently good and can be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth.
As Christians, we are called to discern truth from falsehood and guard ourselves against teachings that deviate from the Scripture. While we should strive to live a life that honors God and aligns with His Word, we must avoid legalism and the imposition of man-made rules or traditions. Instead of focusing solely on external practices, our emphasis should be on cultivating a thankful heart and seeking God’s guidance through prayer and the study of His Word.
1 Corinthians 10:25-27
“Eat whatever is sold in the meat market without raising any question on the ground of conscience. For ‘the earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.’ If one of the unbelievers invites you to dinner and you are disposed to go, eat whatever is set before you without raising any question on the ground of conscience.”
In this passage, Paul addresses the issue of eating food that may have been offered to idols. He encourages believers not to raise unnecessary questions or concerns about the source of the food when purchasing it from the market or when dining with unbelievers. Paul reminds believers that ultimately, all things belong to the Lord, and it is the motive of the heart that matters in our actions.
As followers of Christ, we should be mindful of the impact our actions may have on others, particularly unbelievers. While we have the freedom to eat any type of food, if consuming certain foods may cause others to stumble or question our faith, it is wise to exercise caution and consider their spiritual well-being. Our primary focus should be to glorify God in all that we do and to demonstrate His love and acceptance to those around us. Through our actions, we can be a positive influence and point others towards a relationship with Christ.
Mark 7:14-19
“And he called the people to him again and said to them, ‘Hear me, all of you, and understand: There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.’ And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 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 this passage, Jesus explains to the people that it is not what goes into a person that defiles them, but rather the things that come out of their heart. He clarifies that the food a person consumes does not have the power to defile them spiritually. Jesus’ statement that “Thus he declared all foods clean” signifies a significant shift in understanding and application of dietary laws within the New Covenant.
With Jesus’ coming, the focus shifted from external rituals and regulations to an emphasis on inward transformation and purity of the heart. Jesus’ declaration of all foods being clean reflects the new understanding that personal righteousness is not achieved through adherence to dietary laws but through faith in Him. As believers, we should recognize the freedom we have in Christ and prioritize the condition of our hearts, seeking to live in obedience and righteousness before God.
Colossians 2:20-23
“If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— ‘Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch’ referring to things that all perish as they are used—according to human precepts and teachings? These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.”
In this passage, Paul cautions against the observance of human regulations and teachings that restrict certain actions or practices without truly promoting holiness. He challenges the believers in Colossae to question why they would subject themselves to such external regulations that have no real power to bring about inner transformation or victory over sin.
As followers of Christ, we must be careful not to place unnecessary restrictions on ourselves or others that do not bear spiritual significance. While discipline and self-control are vital aspects of the Christian walk, focusing solely on external rules or regulations can lead to legalism and a false sense of righteousness. True transformation and victory over sin come through the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Our focus should be on cultivating a deep and intimate relationship with God, allowing His Spirit to guide and transform us from within.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
This verse reminds us that, as believers, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Our bodies are not our own; they belong to God because we have been bought by the precious blood of Christ. Therefore, we are called to honor and glorify God in how we treat and care for our bodies.
This truth carries significance when it comes to considering what we consume, including our food choices. Although the dietary laws of the Old Testament are no longer binding, we should be mindful of the impact our dietary choices have on our physical and spiritual well-being. By making wise and healthy choices that honor God, we demonstrate good stewardship of the bodies He has entrusted to us, enabling us to better serve and fulfill His purposes.
Matthew 15:11
“It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”
In this verse, Jesus clarifies that it is not the food or drink we consume that defiles us spiritually, but rather the words and actions that flow from our hearts. He teaches that our words have the power to reveal the true condition of our hearts and can either edify or defile us and others around us.
While the dietary laws of the Old Testament are no longer binding for Christians, this verse reminds us of the importance of guarding our tongues and being mindful of the words we speak. Our words have the potential to build others up or tear them down, as well as impact our own spiritual well-being. By seeking to align our words with God’s truth and exhibiting love and grace in our speech, we reflect the character of Christ and demonstrate the transformative work of the Holy Spirit within us.
1 Corinthians 8:8
“Food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do.”
Paul addresses the issue of food offered to idols in this verse. He emphasizes that what we eat or do not eat does not determine our standing before God. Food itself does not have the power to bring us closer to or further away from God’s favor; our relationship with Him is based on faith in Christ alone.
This principle can be extended to our personal dietary choices. While we should strive to make wise and healthy choices, our eating habits do not define our spirituality. Whether we choose to abstain from certain foods or enjoy a variety of foods, the focus should remain on our heart’s posture towards God and our desire to honor Him in all aspects of our lives. Our spiritual growth and maturity are not dependent on what we eat but on our surrender to Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit within us.
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 this passage, Jesus challenges the traditional understanding that consuming certain foods or being in contact with unclean things defiles a person. He explains that it is not what goes into a person from the outside that defiles them but what comes out of their hearts. By this statement, Jesus affirms that all foods are considered clean in the eyes of God.
This teaching from Jesus sets a spiritual precedent for believers. Though there may be cultural or personal dietary preferences, we are no longer under the Old Testament dietary restrictions. The focus has shifted from external purifications to the purification of our hearts through faith in Christ. We are called to honor God and live according to the moral teachings of Scripture, rather than strict dietary regulations.
1 Corinthians 10:27-28
“If one of the unbelievers invites you to dinner and you are disposed to go, eat whatever is set before you without raising any question on the ground of conscience. But if someone says to you, ‘This has been offered in sacrifice,’ then do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for the sake of conscience.”
Paul addresses the issue of food offered to idols in this verse, providing guidance for believers when invited to dine with unbelievers. He instructs them to eat whatever is set before them without inquiring about its source or questioning its acceptability. However, if someone informs them that the food has been offered to idols, they should refrain from eating it for the sake of that person’s conscience as well as their own.
While the context of this passage relates specifically to food offered to idols, the underlying principle can be applied to various situations. As believers, we should be mindful of the impact our actions may have on the consciences of others, particularly those who are still growing in their faith or have different beliefs. We should strive to live in a way that demonstrates love, grace, and sensitivity, always seeking to build up others in their walk with Christ.
Romans 14:14-17
“I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
In the context of discussing personal convictions and the freedom we have in Christ, Paul highlights that nothing is unclean in and of itself. However, he emphasizes the importance of considering others’ consciences and being mindful of how our choices may impact them. If our actions cause another believer to stumble or grieve, we are called to prioritize love over personal preferences.
This principle not only applies to dietary choices but extends to various areas of life. As followers of Christ, we are called to pursue righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. This means placing greater importance on our relationships with fellow believers and fostering an environment of unity, understanding, and mutual respect. Our focus should be on building up one another and glorifying God, rather than insisting on our own rights or preferences.
Matthew 15:16-18
“And he said, ‘Are you also still without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled? But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person.'”
In this passage, Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for their obsession with ceremonial cleanliness but neglect of inner righteousness. He teaches that it is not what goes into a person’s body that defiles them, but rather the words and actions that originate from their heart. Jesus emphasizes that a person’s thoughts, intentions, and attitudes are of greater significance in terms of spiritual purity.
While this passage is not specifically addressing dietary laws, it highlights the need to focus on matters of the heart rather than external rituals or regulations. As Christians, our primary concern should be learning to align our thoughts, words, and actions with the teachings of Christ, which encourage love, humility, forgiveness, and righteousness. By allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts and renew our minds, we can reflect the true purity and holiness that pleases God.
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.”
Paul addresses false teachers in this passage, highlighting the danger of their teachings that promote abstaining from certain foods and forbidding marriage. He emphasizes that these teachings disregard the truth and distort God’s intention for His created order. Paul asserts that everything created by God is intrinsically good and can be received as such if done with thanksgiving and in accordance with His Word and prayer.
As believers, we are called to approach all aspects of life, including our dietary choices, with an attitude of gratitude and submission to God’s will. While we should strive for wisdom and discernment in our choices, we should also recognize and appreciate the goodness of God’s creation. By receiving all things with thanksgiving and seeking His guidance through prayer and the study of His Word, we can navigate our dietary choices in a way that honors and pleases God.
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.”
In this verse, Jesus corrects the religious leaders who were focused on external cleanliness but neglected the condition of their hearts. He teaches that true defilement comes not from what is eaten but from the words and actions that proceed from the heart.
This verse reminds us that physical rituals or regulations do not hold ultimate significance in our relationship with God. While the dietary laws described in the Old Testament had a specific purpose for the people of Israel, the New Covenant in Christ has shifted the focus to the transformation of the heart. As believers, our priority should be on cultivating a heart that reflects the love, grace, and righteousness of Christ, allowing His Spirit to guide our thoughts, words, and actions.
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.”
This verse addresses false teachings that promote abstaining from certain foods and forbidding marriage. It emphasizes that God created all things to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and know the truth. Paul emphasizes that everything God created is inherently good and can be enjoyed if received with gratitude and in accordance with His Word.
This verse underscores the goodness of God’s creation and the importance of recognizing His provision in our lives. While we should exercise wisdom and discernment in our dietary choices, we should also approach food with an attitude of thanksgiving, acknowledging God’s goodness and provision. By receiving all things with gratitude and in alignment with His Word, we demonstrate our trust in His sovereignty and care for every aspect of our lives.
Romans 14:20-21
“Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats. It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble.”
Paul encourages believers not to allow differences in dietary practices to lead to division or cause a fellow believer to stumble. He affirms that all foods are clean but cautions against causing harm to a fellow believer’s conscience through one’s eating habits. More important than personal preferences is considering the impact our choices may have on others and striving for unity and love within the body of Christ.
This passage emphasizes the importance of loving and respecting one another as members of the body of Christ. As believers, we are called to prioritize unity and seek to build one another up in our faith. This includes being sensitive to the convictions and consciences of others, even in matters of food. By considering the spiritual well-being of our brothers and sisters in Christ, we demonstrate selflessness and exhibit the love of Christ to the world.
Ephesians 5:18-20
“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
In this passage, Paul contrasts the negative effects of drunkenness with the command to be filled with the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to express their joy and gratitude to God through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Rather than seeking fulfillment in alcohol or temporary pleasures, Paul urges believers to find satisfaction in the presence of the Holy Spirit and to overflow with thanksgiving for God’s goodness.
This verse serves as a reminder that our spiritual satisfaction and joy are found in a vibrant relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. While alcohol is not directly related to dietary choices, it provides insight into the importance of seeking God’s presence and finding contentment in Him. By directing our hearts towards worship, praise, and thanksgiving, we fulfill our God-given purpose and experience true fulfillment and joy in Him.
1 Corinthians 6:12
“‘All things are lawful for me,’ but not all things are helpful. ‘All things are lawful for me,’ but I will not be dominated by anything.”
Paul acknowledges that as believers, we have freedom in Christ, yet he emphasizes the need for discernment and self-control in our choices. While we may have the liberty to consume certain foods, he cautions against allowing anything to dominate or control our lives.
As Christians, we are called to live with wisdom and moderation. While there may be no specific prohibition against particular foods, we must consider the impact our choices have on our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Practicing self-control and discernment in our food choices allows us to prioritize our relationship with God and pursue a lifestyle that reflects His values and principles.
Daniel 1:8
“But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king’s food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself.”
In this verse, Daniel demonstrates a personal conviction to honor God and maintain purity in his dietary choices. Despite being taken captive by Babylon and offered the king’s food and wine, which may have been contrary to the dietary laws of the Israelites, Daniel resolved not to defile himself. He trusted in God’s provision and requested an alternative diet.
This passage highlights the importance of personal convictions and standing firm in our faith. While the specific dietary restrictions of the Old Testament are not binding for Christians, we can still draw inspiration from Daniel’s commitment to honoring God in his choices. As believers, we are called to have a discerning spirit, seek God’s wisdom, and make choices that align with our commitment to living a life that glorifies Him.
Romans 14:1-4
“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. Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand.”
In this passage, Paul addresses the different convictions believers may have regarding dietary choices. He urges believers not to quarrel or pass judgment on one another based on these choices. Paul emphasizes that each person is accountable to their own master, and it is not our place to condemn or despise those whose convictions differ from our own.
Within the body of Christ, it is important to foster an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and love. Regardless of our personal dietary choices, we must approach others with grace and respect, acknowledging that God has welcomed and accepted each believer. Our unity as the body of Christ should be based on our shared faith in Jesus rather than superficial differences such as food preferences.