Gluttony is often considered a sin in many Christian traditions, primarily because it reflects an excessive desire for food and drink, which can lead to neglecting spiritual and moral duties. While the term “gluttony” itself is not explicitly used frequently in the Bible, the concept is addressed in various passages.
1. **Proverbs 23:20-21 (NIV)** – “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” This passage warns against excessive indulgence in food and drink, associating it with negative consequences.
2. **Philippians 3:19 (NIV)** – “Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.” This verse highlights how prioritizing physical desires, such as hunger, over spiritual matters can lead to detrimental outcomes.
3. **Deuteronomy 21:20 (NIV)** – “They shall say to the elders of his city, ‘This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He will not obey us. He is a glutton and a drunkard.’” Here, a glutton is characterized as a rebellious person, suggesting that gluttony is linked to a lack of self-control and respect for authority.
4. **Matthew 11:19 (NIV)** – “The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is proved right by her deeds.” In this instance, Jesus is accused of being a glutton, but He counters this perception by highlighting the importance of actions over labels.
5. **Galatians 5:19-21 (NIV)** – “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” This passage includes excess and indulgence among the behaviors that are contrary to a godly life.
In summary, while the Bible does not define gluttony in a single, unified manner, it does provide various warnings and insights about the dangers of excessive eating and drinking, emphasizing self-control and moderation as virtues to be cultivated.