Serving one's own belly
In Rom.16:17-18 and Php.3:17-19,
"serving one's own belly" or "whose God is their belly" is
a metaphor for living a self-indulgent, selfish lifestyle. It suggests that
these individuals prioritize their own desires and appetites above spiritual or
moral values.
In Romans 16:17-18, Paul warns the
believers to be aware of those who cause divisions and act contrary to the
doctrine they have learned. These individuals are described as serving
"not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly." This means that
their primary motivation is satisfying their own selfish desires, rather than
serving Christ and upholding the grace doctrine. They use persuasive and
flattering words to deceive others, particularly those who are less discerning.
In Philippians 3:17-19, Paul again
addresses the issue of those who live for their own gratification. He describes
them as "enemies of the cross of Christ" whose end is destruction.
Their "God is their belly," meaning that their lives are driven by
their own appetites and earthly desires. Because of the blindness of their
hearts, they take pride in things that should bring them shame and are focused
solely on worldly matters, ignoring spiritual truths and values, Eph 4:17-19.
Therefore, we are encouraged to mark and avoid these individuals, following instead the example of Paul and others who walk in like manner as him, who live according to the principles of the grace doctrine. By learning and applying our grace doctrine, thereby emulating their dedication to spiritual values and Christ-like behaviour, we can stay true to our faith and avoid being led astray by those who prioritize selfish desires over genuine spiritual growth.
