What is the meaning of Genesis 9:3? Everything that lives and moves • The phrase sets no distinction among kinds of animals; the whole living, mobile creation is in view. • Immediately after the Flood, God states: “The fear and dread of you will fall on every beast” (Genesis 9:2), underscoring a new relationship between people and animals. • Acts 10:12 echoes this breadth—“all kinds of four-footed animals… were in it”—showing the same comprehensive scope. • The wording underscores God’s literal authority over every creature (Psalm 24:1) and His right to delegate their use. Will be food for you • God expressly authorizes meat as sustenance. – This is not mere allowance; it is provision. – 1 Timothy 4:4 affirms, “For every creation of God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.” • Eating meat is now placed on the same moral footing as eating plants, provided it is done with gratitude and respect. • Romans 14:2-3 reminds believers not to judge one another over dietary choices, reflecting liberty first stated here. Just as I gave you the green plants • Genesis 1:29 records the original grant: “I have given you every plant yielding seed… they shall be food for you.” • That pre-Flood diet highlighted creation’s harmony; post-Flood, God expands provision while acknowledging a fallen world. • The parallel clause shows continuity: the same God who literally provided plants now literally provides animals—His character of care is unchanged (James 1:17). I now give you all things • “All things” stresses total generosity, yet not license without limits. Verse 4 immediately adds, “You must not eat meat with its lifeblood still in it.” • Acts 15:29 repeats that blood restriction, showing the principle’s enduring relevance. • 1 Corinthians 10:31 ties the gift to worship: “Whether you eat or drink… do it all to the glory of God.” • Practically, this mandate calls for: – Thankfulness at every meal. – Stewardship and humane treatment of animals (Proverbs 12:10). – Recognition that God is Provider, not merely permitting but actively giving. summary Genesis 9:3 records a pivotal, literal expansion of God’s provision. Every living, moving creature joins the menu once limited to green plants. The verse affirms God’s ownership of creation, His care for human needs, and the freedom to receive His gifts with gratitude, always within the boundary of reverence for life and the glory of the Giver. |
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