10 Bible Lessons About Food

Over the last several years, with the increasing interest in eating and living healthier, the question about what Jesus might have eaten has become a popular topic of speculation. In some instances we can discover the foods Jesus ate by reading the Bible. For example, Luke 24:41-43 states “And while they still did not believe it because of joy and amazement, he asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate it in their presence.” However, this is one of the rare passages in the Bible actually showing us the types of food and drink Jesus consumed. However, historians and archeologists have made educated guesses based on the foods known to grow in the geographical area and on customs and beliefs during the life of Jesus. The list of foods and beverages below are some of the ones many believe Jesus likely ate in his lifetime.

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Fish

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Christ was cooking fish when first seen by some of His disciples after His Resurrection. Fish is an excellent source of lean protein, an essential part of our regular diet. Additionally, fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, lake trout, and herring are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. The omega-3 fatty acids have been reported to have anti-inflammatory actions and consumption of adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids have been suggested to support healthy blood lipid levels, reduce blood pressure, and reduce heart disease risk. Fishing was a common occupation during Jesus’ day. Christ asked Simon (also called Peter) and his brother Andrew to follow Him to become “Fishers of Men” at the Sea of Galilee.

Olive Oil and Olives

The “sop” used to dip bread in during the Last Supper may have been or contained olive oil. Olive oil and olives have long been a staple of the Mediterranean diet, a dietary pattern thought to be much healthier than typical Western diets. Olive oil is rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant compounds as well as dietary fat. However, the dietary fat in olive oil is mostly monounsaturated fat, which has been reported to support normal heart health by reducing total and bad cholesterol levels. Additionally, the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of olive oil have been reported to support normal blood sugar health, ease joint discomfort, and decrease breast cancer risk. Olive oil also nourishes skin health for a glow.

Bread

Jesus called himself “The Bread of Life” in John 6:35. Bread was passed out at the feeding of the 5,000 men (plus families) and 4,000, and consumed at the Last Supper. Many whole grain breads are a rich source of vitamins and minerals as well as dietary fiber. Soluble dietary fiber has been reported to help with weight management, digestive tract health, blood sugar health, purging of bad hormones from the body, and heart health. Eating a diet low in fat and high in grain products, fruits, and vegetables that contain dietary fiber may reduce your risk of some cancers including breast cancer. Additionally, soluble fiber from foods such as oat bran and whole grain barley, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.