Leviticus 11 The LORD of the Israelite’s salvation was also lord over their daily lives. It was he who determined which animals were suitable for eating, and which were not. It had nothing to do with hygiene or health. Many of the animals were perfectly suitable for eating. I, myself, am quite partial to ostrich, which was unclean for the Israelites.
The point was that the God who delivered them was sovereign over their daily lives. Without this kind of sanctification, deliverance is not complete.
Jesus declared all foods clean for those who trust in him for salvation (Mark 7:19). Sanctification in the new covenant has less to do with externals, and more to do with internals.
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).
However, the principle that the Savior is the one who determines what sanctifies is still in effect.
LORD, we surrender our preferences to you. Sanctify us your way.
