Topical Bible: Servants: Characteristics of Wicked Servants: Gluttony

◄ Servants: Characteristics of Wicked Servants: Gluttony ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, servants are often depicted as individuals entrusted with responsibilities and duties by their masters. The character and behavior of servants are frequently used as metaphors for spiritual truths and moral lessons. Among the negative traits that can characterize wicked servants, gluttony is highlighted as a significant vice that leads to moral and spiritual decay.

Definition and Context

Gluttony, in biblical terms, refers to excessive indulgence in food and drink, often symbolizing a broader lack of self-control and discipline. It is considered a sin because it reflects a prioritization of physical desires over spiritual responsibilities and duties. In the context of servants, gluttony can lead to neglect of duty, wastefulness, and a general lack of preparedness for the tasks assigned by their masters.

Biblical References

The Bible provides several references that illustrate the dangers and consequences of gluttony, particularly in the context of servitude and stewardship. One of the most direct references to the behavior of wicked servants is found in the parable of the faithful and wise servant versus the wicked servant:

· Matthew 24:48-51 : "But suppose that servant is wicked and says in his heart, ‘My master will be away a long time.’ And he begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. The master of that servant will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not know. Then he will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

In this passage, the wicked servant's indulgence in eating and drinking with drunkards is a clear indication of gluttony. This behavior is contrasted with the faithful servant, who remains vigilant and dutiful in the master's absence. The wicked servant's gluttony leads to a lack of readiness and ultimately results in severe punishment.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

Gluttony, as a characteristic of wicked servants, serves as a warning against the dangers of prioritizing earthly pleasures over spiritual responsibilities. It reflects a heart that is not aligned with the will of the master, symbolizing a broader spiritual unfaithfulness. The indulgence in gluttony can lead to a cascade of other sinful behaviors, such as neglect of duty, mistreatment of others, and a general lack of preparedness for the master's return.

The Bible consistently calls for self-control and moderation, urging believers to live lives that are disciplined and focused on fulfilling their God-given responsibilities. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often emphasizes the importance of self-control as a fruit of the Spirit:

· Galatians 5:22-23 : "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law."

Conclusion

While the Bible does not explicitly list gluttony as a characteristic of wicked servants in every instance, the broader scriptural narrative warns against the dangers of excessive indulgence and the neglect of spiritual duties. The parable of the wicked servant serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of gluttony and the importance of living a life marked by self-control and faithfulness to one's responsibilities.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 24:49
And shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

On the Soul and the Resurrection.
... any answer to such foolish and wicked propositions; for ... which is man's prototype
no such characteristics are to be ... of the field forbids the servants to gather ...
/.../gregory/gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/on the soul and the 2.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... devoutly both say and sing as others did, yet retaining my wicked life; but ... most
happy, and without doubt greatly blessed, because they were the servants, as I ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm

part ii
... then should not we, God's servants, labour for ... Is it not through gluttony, through
expensive dress ... principled children, forgive their wicked, capricious, and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm