I am not a Bible scholar nor do I claim to be "super Christian" with a more elite knowledge than anyone else. But I am a devout follower of Christ and He is my Savior. I do claim a unique perspective, however. I am not only a bowhunter, I am a veterinarian. I deal with animal death and suffering on a daily basis through my profession.
I agree that in Eden, before the Fall, God's clear intention was to give man all good plants to eat. There was no death, even of animals and no sin. After the fall however when Adam and Eve became aware of their nakedness, the Lord told them to cover themselves with skins. Now I'm certain that none of the animals walked up and volunteered their skins. No, in fact the animal was slaughtered and the skins taken to cover mans nakedness (sin). This monumental incident was symbolic of a Biblical truth that remains true to this day. Without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sins.
Praise Him that the perfect, complete sacrifice has been made once and for all for each of us in Christ Jesus. It is true, however from the Fall forward that man was given beasts of the field and birds of the air and fish of the sea to eat.
If you reference the New Testament you will find that Jesus not only hung out with a bunch of fisherman but he regularly participated in the catch and after the resurrection cooked and ate fish. Aren't they animals too? Jesus told the parable of the prodigal son in which the father killed the fatted calf for a feast. God told Peter in a dream when he struggled with associating with the Gentiles that every creature he created was clean...therefore kill, and eat.
I totally respect ones commitment to vegetarianism. I certainly agree that it is a healthier lifestyle. But lets face it...each of us have selfish motives in picking and choosing verses of the Word to satisfy our on personal agendas. I too merely would like to warn all who sit in judgement of others and claim who is and who is not a Christian because things such as this.
It's sad that we as Christians are hard pressed on all sides by the Enemy....in politics, in culture, and everywhere else. We are constantly under attack and yet we continue to turn on each other. I absolutely respect anyone's opinion as long as it does not contradict the Word of God but I reject the notion that I am not a Christian simply because I hunt.
Respectfully,
Bob Arnold
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