Deuteronomy 12:15-26 - Announcement Of Particular Laws.

The Divine regulation of food.

All animals for food had formerly to be killed at the door of the tabernacle (Le Deuteronomy 16:1-8 ). Probably the rule was not strictly observed ( Deuteronomy 12:8 ), but in view of the occupation of the land, the prohibition is relaxed. Note—

I. OUR BIGHTS IN THE USE OF FOOD TAKE THEIR ORIGIN FROM GOD . This is taught in the account of creation ( Genesis 1:29 , Genesis 1:30 ), in the grant of flesh to Noah ( Genesis 9:3 , Genesis 9:4 ), in the Levitical restrictions on animal food ( Leviticus 11:1-47 .), and in passages like the present.

II. OUR MANNER OF THE USE OF FOOD OUGHT TO BE GLORIFYING TO GOD . "Eating and drinking" is to be to God's glory ( 1 Corinthians 10:31 ).

1. God's gift to be recognized in food. A motive for thankfulness.

2. God's blessing to be sought upon it. The example of Christ in this respect is noteworthy ( Matthew 14:19 , etc.).

3. Self-restraint is to be exercised in the partaking of it. The blood was not to be eaten.—J.O.