Topical Encyclopedia The Bible, while primarily a spiritual and moral guide, offers insights into the physical well-being of individuals, often linking moral behavior with physical health. Intemperance, or lack of self-control, is frequently highlighted as a cause of various maladies, both spiritual and physical.Biblical References to Intemperance and Health: 1. Proverbs on Self-Control and Health: The Book of Proverbs frequently associates wisdom and self-control with health. Proverbs 23:20-21 warns, "Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe them in rags." Here, intemperance in eating and drinking is directly linked to negative outcomes, suggesting a broader principle that lack of self-control can lead to physical and financial ruin. 2. New Testament Teachings: The New Testament continues this theme, emphasizing the importance of self-control as a fruit of the Spirit. In Galatians 5:22-23 , self-control is listed among the fruits of the Spirit, implying that a life led by the Spirit will naturally avoid the pitfalls of intemperance. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 9:27 , states, "No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." This metaphor of physical discipline underscores the importance of self-control in maintaining both spiritual and physical health. 3. Warnings Against Excess: The Bible also provides specific warnings against excess, particularly in the context of alcohol. Ephesians 5:18 advises, "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." The contrast here is clear: intemperance leads to reckless behavior, which can have detrimental effects on one's health and well-being. 4. Old Testament Examples: The Old Testament offers narratives that illustrate the consequences of intemperance. The account of Esau selling his birthright for a single meal (Genesis 25:29-34) serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing immediate gratification over long-term blessings. While not directly about disease, it highlights the broader principle that lack of self-control can lead to significant loss and regret. Intemperance and Physical Consequences: The Bible's teachings on intemperance are not limited to spiritual consequences but extend to physical health. The connection between moral behavior and physical well-being is a recurring theme. For instance, Proverbs 25:16 advises moderation: "If you find honey, eat just enough—too much of it, and you will vomit." This practical advice underscores the importance of moderation in all things, suggesting that overindulgence can lead to physical discomfort and illness. Spiritual and Physical Health: The biblical perspective on intemperance suggests a holistic view of health, where spiritual discipline and physical well-being are interconnected. The call to self-control is not merely a moral directive but a practical guideline for maintaining health. The Bible encourages believers to exercise self-discipline, not only to avoid spiritual pitfalls but also to promote physical health and longevity. In summary, the Bible presents intemperance as a significant cause of both spiritual and physical maladies. Through its teachings, it advocates for a life of moderation and self-control, emphasizing that such a lifestyle is conducive to both spiritual growth and physical health. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hosea 7:5In the day of our king the princes have made him sick with bottles of wine; he stretched out his hand with scorners. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Matt. xxvi. 36-38. The Impending Conflict The Impending Conflict. Matt. viii. 14 On Redeeming the Time Salvation Published from the Mountains Treatise v. An Address to Demetrianus. To the Rev. A. Brandram Matt. xxvii. 45-48. Matt. xxii. 15 Resources Pandemic pandemonium! How should Christians respond to pandemic diseases? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about health? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view vaccinations/vaccines? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Diseases: Art of Curing, Defective Diseases: Demoniacal Possession Diseases: Frequently: Complicated Diseases: Frequently: Incurable Diseases: Frequently: Loathsome Diseases: God often Entreated to Cure Diseases: Intemperance a Cause of Diseases: Medicine Used for Curing Diseases: Not Looking to God In, Condemned Diseases: Often Brought from Other Countries Diseases: Often Sent As Punishment Diseases: Over-Excitement a Cause of Diseases: Physicians Undertook the Cure of Diseases: Regarded As Visitations Diseases: Sins of Youth a Cause of Diseases: Those Afflicted With: Anointed Diseases: Those Afflicted With: Often Divinely Cured Diseases: Those Afflicted With: Often Divinely Supported Diseases: Those Afflicted With: Often Laid in the Streets to Receive Advice from Passers By Related Terms |
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