Read pp. 297-302 in Institutes of Biblical Law.
corresponding Rushdoony lectures
Listen to the R. J. Rushdoony lecture, Dietary Laws, that corresponds with this section.
Video summary lecture (Andrea Schwartz)
questions for thought & discussion
1. If diet should not be a barrier between ourselves and other men, are we not putting one there when we declare and maintain our abstention from unclean foods while with them?
2. If it is not a matter of salvation, why make the dietary laws important at all?
3. In the Catholic faith there is a differentiation among sins: mortal sins and venial sins. Is it sound thinking to include the violation of dietary laws as a lesser sin? Is this even a proper way to think?
4. Is there a spiritual benefit and implication to Christians observing the dietary laws today?
5. Are dietary regulations a proper area for Christians to debate? Certainly they don’t fall under the same categories as abortion or homosexuality. Is it correct to say that God’s word is ambiguous here? Is it valid for Christians to “agree to disagree” on this issue?
One of the surest ways to identify whether you understand a subject is to write a point of view paper (sometimes referred to as a position paper). This exercise helps to unearth areas of confusion, uncertainty, and/or disagreement, many times revealing that a number of unanswered questions remain. Once completed, you may submit your paper for comments.
After formulating your position(s) on the subjects covered in each lesson, a good next step is to engage in conversation (with your spouse, children, parents, friends, or co-workers) to better hone your skill in communicating the concepts you have learned and are assimilating into your own thinking. Do not be concerned about “messing up” or doing it the “wrong way” as you will do plenty of both! As with anything worth doing, practice will refine this skill, which is vital in order to fulfill the Great Commission. If you find you need some one-on-one interaction, you may submit a question or request an appointment.