Definition and Context
Gluttony is traditionally understood as the overindulgence and overconsumption of food and drink. In a broader sense, it represents excessive indulgence in any form of physical pleasure or material comfort. Within the biblical context, gluttony is often associated with a lack of self-control and discipline, leading to spiritual complacency and moral decay.

Biblical References
The Bible addresses gluttony as a vice that can lead to spiritual and moral downfall. 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." This passage highlights the tangible consequences of gluttony, linking it to poverty and laziness.

In Deuteronomy 21:20 , the rebellious son is described as "a glutton and a drunkard," indicating that such behavior is symptomatic of a deeper rebellion against divine and parental authority. This association underscores the spiritual implications of gluttony, as it reflects a heart that is not aligned with God's will.

Spiritual Implications
Gluttony is more than just a physical act; it is a spiritual condition that can lead to carnal security. Carnal security refers to a false sense of safety and contentment derived from physical or material satisfaction rather than spiritual fulfillment. Philippians 3:19 describes those "whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things." This verse illustrates how gluttony can become idolatrous, as individuals prioritize bodily desires over spiritual devotion.

The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 6:12-13 , reminds believers, "Everything is permissible for me, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be mastered by anything. Food is for the stomach and the stomach for food, but God will destroy them both." Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of self-control and the transient nature of physical desires, urging believers to focus on eternal rather than temporal satisfaction.

Moral and Ethical Considerations
From a moral standpoint, gluttony is often linked to selfishness and a lack of concern for others. In a world where resources are limited, excessive consumption by some can lead to deprivation for others. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 serves as a poignant reminder of the moral responsibility to care for those in need, rather than indulging in excess.

Furthermore, gluttony can dull spiritual sensitivity and hinder one's relationship with God. Romans 13:13-14 advises, "Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Instead, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh." This passage calls believers to live a life of moderation and spiritual alertness, avoiding the pitfalls of gluttony and other fleshly desires.

Practical Applications
To combat gluttony and its spiritual consequences, believers are encouraged to practice self-discipline and moderation. Fasting, prayer, and acts of charity are traditional spiritual disciplines that help redirect focus from physical to spiritual nourishment. By cultivating a heart of gratitude and contentment, Christians can resist the temptation of gluttony and foster a deeper reliance on God's provision.

In summary, gluttony is a significant spiritual issue that can lead to carnal security, drawing individuals away from a life centered on God. Through biblical teachings and spiritual disciplines, believers are called to exercise self-control and prioritize their relationship with God over earthly pleasures.Isaiah 22:13
And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Corinthians 15:32
If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantages it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Luke 12:19
And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have much goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, and be merry.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

False Professors Solemnly Warned
... of the heathen, and there indulge in gluttony and drunkenness ... little fun out of him
if he leads a holy ... faith," lest, being puffed up by your carnal fleshly mind ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/false professors solemnly warned.htm

Matt. xii. 46-49.
... He Himself rebuked them, attributing it to their carnal mind. ... desire, but also in
the way that leads thee to ... of riches; such as pleasure, and gluttony, and envy ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of saint matthew/homily xliv matt xii 46-49.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... powerfully, it prevailed; and he made a resolution to indulge himself in such carnal
delights and ... But this leads us to the wondrous narrative of his new birth. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

part ii
... Is it not through gluttony, through expensive dress, like the rich man in the Gospel! ...
Is it not our attachment to carnal pleasures in general, to our belly, to ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

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Gluttony: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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