Chapter 4 of 1 Timothy says that in the latter times false teachings will appear that forbid eating certain kinds of food, although Scripture says that every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused if it is received with thanksgiving [1 Tim.4:4]. Jesus Himself said that “there is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man“. These teachings are also likened to profane old wives’ fables and contrasted with godliness.

So what is godliness? Here godliness is contrasted with teachings about diets and physical exercise, that is, with everything aimed at the supposed improvement of the body. But godliness is profitable for all things, for it holds the promise of [it gives] life both now and in the age to come. [1 Tim.4:8] What gives life to our bodies and to our spirit? Christ! He is the resurrection and the life!

By feeding only on Him and abstaining from “harmful” food, from teachings in which Christ is not the bread of life, we will strengthen not only our spirit but also our body, both now and in the age to come. [Jhn.6:35]