What does the Bible say about the SDA dietary restrictions?
Thank you submitting your questions on the Ebenezer All Nations Website, they are important on many levels, so let’s address them one at a time:
First of all, I would like to humbly state that the dietary laws we will be talking about are not SDA dietary restrictions, but biblical truths concerning what God deems best for His people. You certainly have found a good source of information concerning this in the book of Leviticus Chapter 11, and in the book of Deuteronomy Chapter 14. You may also find it interesting that in Genesis Chapter 7:2, long before any “dietary” laws were written down, God stated that there were ‘clean’ and ‘unclean’ animals that would be taken onto Noah’s Ark.
You are ABSOLUTELY correct in saying one’s diet is a personal choice, however our choices should be made according to God’s Word, and based upon our understanding of His love towards us, and our love for Him. Not all SDA’s are vegetarian, and NO ONE, and I mean NO ONE, should make ANYONE feel embarrassed or guilty on not being a vegetarian, for there are plenty of ‘clean’ meats and beverages available for us to partake in.
Now after having said that, our common knowledge of scientific and medical facts concerning diet should enter in to the equation as to what has been proven healthy for us, to have a better and longer life. Most SDA Churches will have fellowship luncheons that are “plant based”, to promote a healthier alternative, while showcasing different recipes that one could enjoy if one “chooses” to incorporate a ‘plant based’ option to their diet based on what God proposed to Adam and Eve, according to Genesis 1:29.
You are also absolutely correct in mentioning that we ARE the temple of God’s Holy Spirit, so we should consider how we take care of the our bodies which God has blessed us with, and that being said, it is that same Holy Spirit that will convict one’s heart as to what should be consumed, that will ultimately bring “glory” to God! 1 Corinthians 10:31, and that’s something that every one should base their choices on, whether they are Mormon, Baptist, Catholic, Methodist, or Seventh-Day Adventist.
We truly hope that is helpful to you, and we thank you again for your interest in the subject. If there is a follow-on question or any others please feel free to submit those as well….. God bless you!