1 Timothy 4:3

Forbidding to marry. Paul here warns against fanatical concepts that were first introduced into Christianity by the Gnostics (see Vol. VI, pp. 54–58) and perpetuated by the monastic system. The Gnostics believed that all matter was evil, and that the human body, being material, must have its passions repressed and denied. According to this theory, marriage became a concession to the lusts of the flesh, and was therefore sinful. Paul makes clear that marriage is a God-given institution and that to attack this institution would be to assail the infinite wisdom and beneficent purposes of God (see on 1 Cor. 7:1; Heb. 13:4).

Meats. Gr. brōmata, “food” (see on Mark 7:19). For a discussion of Paul’s position concerning the relationship between food and Christian living see on Rom. 14:1. Paul here refers to ascetic influences and tendencies that permeated the church. For ceremonial, ritualistic reasons these ascetics considered the total prohibition of certain foods to be spiritually desirable. The prohibition of certain foods on particular religious days may also be included in the apostle’s warning.

Which. Some believe that this refers back to “meats” only, whereas others urge that marriage is also to be included.

Created. Both food and marriage were part of God’s original plan for man in Eden.

To be received. Literally, “for participation.” The institution of marriage and the foods specified for man to eat (see on Gen. 1:29; see Additional Note on Lev. 11) are part of God’s plan for the proper development of man. He who created man knows best what activities he should participate in so as to attain a balanced, happy life. For man to deny himself the privileges of marriage and food necessary for proper health would be to question and defy the wisdom and will of God.

Thanksgiving. Men are not only to accept God’s directions for living, but to rejoice in His concern for them and to register their gratitude in a life of praise and thanksgiving (see on 1 Cor. 10:30, 31).

Which believe and know. Literally, “by the faithful, even those knowing fully [that is, who have an experimental understanding of].” God’s plans for man are understood best by those who have committed their will to Him and put those plans into practice (see John 7:17). Those who know by experience the unfailing love and concern of God will be the first to vindicate His wisdom as it extends to every facet of their lives. Only those who have fully realized this wisdom will be able to give genuine “thanksgiving.”

Truth. That is, the revealed will of God as contained in the Scriptures (see ch. 3:15; see on ch. 2:4).