Good Eating

This is a lovely little book that provides a very well rounded discussion as to how Christians can better think about other animals. In light of the covenant God makes with Noah (that includes all animals), in light of the fact that humans were first commanded to eat of trees (meat-eating only occurs after the fall---very significant), and in light of Isaiah 11, where all creatures, human and non-human, will coexist on God's holy mountain, how should we treat animals in the here and the now? For people who believe that God is the creator of all things, there has to be a difference...maybe it is not vegetarianism, but still, there has to be some difference--and this book will help get you started on what that difference is.

Stephen Webb, associate professor of religion and philosophy at Wabash College, provides a "biblical alternative" to the animal rights movement in this book. This is a thorough work that draws on the Bible, writings of the early church fathers, and modern theology. Webb writes that "there is a good case to be made that vegetarianism is a valid and valuable way of anticipating the kingdom of God by practicing what God most intends for the world." The chapter "Why Jesus Was (Probably) Not a (Strict) Vegetarian" is an interesting exploration of the controversy over Jesus' diet. A really excellent book!

Members of all religious backgrounds will enjoy this humorous in-depth study of the theology of food. Looking from the Christian perspective, Webb studies a number of subjects ranging from the modern "meat and potatoes" meal to Christian justification for vegetarianism, from whether or not pets go to Heaven to Biblical dietary restrictions in the Old Testament. While it is a bit academic for bedtime reading, it's certainly worth the read for anyone seriously interested in the Christian theology behind a human activity that unites us all - eating.

This is a really great book, fun to read, and inspiring as well. There is more information here about the early church and biblical view of animals than in any other book I know of. This is a great read. The chapter on whether there will be animals in heaven is a classic. Definitely a must read.

Stephen Webb?s Good Eating is an immensely important contribution to the discussion of eating and ethics, love of God and care for the world. In his very readable, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable book, Webb takes up the difficult task of reclaiming the discourse and practice of vegetarianism from secular or non-Christian movements such animal rights, health consciousness, New Age or Eastern religions, in order to frame them in an authentic and Biblically-based Christian context. After discussing his own conversion to meatlessness as an integral part of his faith, Webb, a prominent theologian and professor, delves deeply into Biblical narratives and Christian history to examine teachings and practices of consumption. From the creation of animals as helpers in Eden to the dietary laws of Judaism, the Last Supper and the Eucharist to the fasting of the early Church Fathers, the abstention of heretics to the loss of the Biblical ideal of meatlessness, Webb problematizes conventional readings which assume a rationale for the eating flesh as an acceptable Christian practice. In their stead, he proposes a serious, provocative, and convincing theology of a truly compassionate and nonviolent stewardship of all of God?s creatures. Yet even more compelling than his readings which demonstrate vegetarianism as intrinsic to the Christian tradition is his argument that not eating meat is a practice wholly consistent with living a Christian life and ?one concrete way for Christians to experience and practice God?s grace? (41). In going beyond selfish, personal, or even health reasons for avoiding meat, Christian vegetarianism as ?a way, gradually and humbly, of looking forward to God?s restoration of creation, the fulfillment of God?s promise to complete history by returning the whole world to God?s original intentions. This diet of hope can be one way of witnessing to the good news ofJesus Christ.? (13). Unlike many books intended for Christian audiences, Webb?s does not preach to the choir. His critique of secular or non-Christian vegetarianism is matched by his critique of the complaceny of many contemporary Christians with regard to the suffering of animals and their willingness to conform to the status quo and biddings of the corporate world. His last chapter and appendices, however, provide a range of helpful theological and practical alternatives for consideration, and begin the work of restoring harmony between humans and the rest of creation. Good Eating should be required reading not only for sincere Christians--but for everyone concerned with the welfare of animals, and a reflective and compassionate way of being in the world. Highest recommendation.