Are Dietary Laws Still Relevant? Unpacking Biblical Contradictions
In this article, you will learn how Leviticus 7:25 contradicts Acts 10:13-15, Mark 7:18-19, Romans 14:14, 1 Timothy 4:4 and Matthew 15:11. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
When exploring the Bible, one can't help but notice apparent contradictions regarding dietary restrictions. Let's delve into this complex narrative by examining Leviticus 7:25, where God commands specific rules about animal consumption. This strict guideline illustrates the importance of following divine rules to remain part of the community. However, as we journey into the New Testament, we encounter noticeably different perspectives.
In Acts 10:13-15, Peter receives a vision where God instructs him to eat animals previously deemed unclean, signaling a shift in dietary norms. This vision suggests an evolution in divine law, reflecting perhaps an adaptation to new social conditions or a broadening understanding of God's message.
Similarly, Mark 7:18-19 portrays Jesus proclaiming all foods as clean, a declaration that stands in stark contrast to Leviticus's emphasis on dietary restrictions. This mirrors a modern concept, akin to a company policy change where old procedures are replaced to better fit current needs or understandings.
Romans 14:14 further reinforces this departure, with Paul asserting that no food is inherently unclean. Imagine a society with strict dress codes that slowly loosens its rules to encourage freedom of expression; this could be an analogy to the transition seen in these verses.
1 Timothy 4:4 aligns with this freer approach, suggesting that everything God created is good, provided it is received with gratitude. It's like moving from a rigid school curriculum to one that values open-mindedness and critical thinking.
Lastly, in Matthew 15:11, Jesus emphasizes that defilement doesn't stem from what enters the mouth, but what comes out of it. This teaching fundamentally shifts the focus from external adherence to food laws to internal attitudes and morality.
These passages collectively prompt a crucial question: Do we hold on to the old prohibitions, or embrace a broader, more inclusive interpretation of dietary customs rooted in spirituality rather than strict adherence? The conversation continues.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Leviticus 7:25 | For whosoever eateth the fat of the beast, of which men offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD, even the soul that eateth [it] shall be cut off from his people. |
| 2. | Acts 10:13-15 | And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. |
| 3. | Mark 7:18-19 | Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats? |
| 4. | Romans 14:14 | I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that [there is] nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him [it is] unclean. [unclean: Gr. common] |
| 5. | 1 Timothy 4:4 | For every creature of God [is] good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: |
| 6. | Matthew 15:11 | Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. |