Is the section of Scripture in 1 Timothy 4:1-5 telling us that we have to eat all types of meat and that being a vegetarian is wrong?


Let's examine that particular section of Scripture:

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
(1 Tim. 4:1-5)

These verses deal with false doctrine that puts people in bondage. To forbid to marry, or to command to abstain from meats, is wrong. It is understood that there is a spiritual connection to the forbidding and commanding that these false ministers are doing.

For instance, they might declare that if you eat meat, or get married, you're not spiritual, or you can't get close to God unless you abstain and are single.

This Scripture is not saying that you have to eat meat, and you must get married. If you choose to be a vegetarian, on your own and not for spiritual reasons, that is fine.

If you choose to stay single so that you can have more time for God, that is fine (Rom. 14:1-23; 1 Cor. 7:7-9). However, if you do these things by force and for spiritual acceptance, then it is wrong.

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