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Answer
When seeking answers to matters not explicitly addressed in the Bible, we can and should “reason” from Scripture. This involves identifying principles that can be applied to various aspects of our lives by examining Scripture within its context. Clearly, gastric bypass surgery was not a topic when the Bible was written. Hence, this falls into a category we might consider “uncertain,” as there is no direct “you shall or you shall not” guidance to refer to. Undergoing elective surgery is not explicitly labeled as a “sin.” The key question is whether the purpose and outcome will draw us nearer to God and bring glory to Him in our lives. In essence, how will this procedure impact our personal connection with God?
There are several principles that could guide us in making a decision. However, one crucial point must be emphasized. None of us can dictate to another believer what they should or should not do with their own body in matters where Scripture does not specifically speak. This is a matter between the believer and the Lord. While we can study, seek out principles, and present them, it is ultimately the individual believer’s responsibility to apply those principles in their own life. Each believer is accountable to the Lord independently. Fellow believers are encouraged and may choose to offer support, guidance, and comfort, but we cannot impose decisions on others.
One significant aspect to consider here is living by faith. If an individual is not fully convinced in their own conscience that a course of action is right and not sinful, then as believers, we should lean towards righteousness. Romans 14:23 states that “whatever is not from faith is sin.” In essence, if we personally believe that our actions are sinful, then they are sinful for us. Therefore, in matters lacking clear directives, we must opt to obey based on faith first. HoHowever, let us be clear, we are not referring to excessive guilt for a course of action. Instead, it is the “still small voice” of wisdom—the gift of the Spirit—that is significant and not the accusations of our enemy who aims to ensnare us. If we are walking by faith and in fellowship with the Lord, then we do not need to worry about being in God’s will—God’s will always discovers us. The answer will be evident and not clouded with guilt. The Holy Spirit never accuses us; instead, He persuades and convicts us, leading us to choose to walk in obedience (John 16:12-14). The harsh voice of accusation always comes from our enemy «And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. », (Revelation 12:10).
As born-again believers, we are free to do whatever we want within the boundaries of Scripture. The Apostle Paul makes that very clear in two passages in 1 Corinthians. “’Everything is permissible for me’—but not everything is beneficial. ’Everything is permissible for me’—but I will not be mastered by anything” «All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. », (1 Corinthians 6:12). What the apostle is teaching in this passage is that grace makes us free in Christ. However, we must make the choice to discern what is “expedient” or convenient, what “edifies” or builds us up spiritually, and not to allow what we are doing to control our lives. The only thing that should control the lives of the born-again believer is the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 4:22-23). In other words, just because we can do something does not mean that we should. Again, the important criterion must be what is beneficial to our own personal relationship with the Lord.
As born-again believers, we are to be faithful stewards of every aspect of our lives “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”, (1 Corinthians 4:2). That includes our bodies. We are to be temperate in all things and we are to do “all things” to bring glory to God “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”, (1 Corinthians 10:31). Excessive weight is a health issue, to be sure. However, the heart attitude that fuels the desire to lose weight must be examined. Being a faithful steward includes telling ourselves the truth. We can try to deceive ourselves but when we get down to the bottom of our issues with weight, the reality is that, unless we have a genuine medical problem that causes excess weight, we gain or lose weight by our own choices. Every choice we make has a consequence. Being a faithful steward means doing all things temperately and allowing the Holy Spirit, not food, to control our lives.
Given these principles, we can come to some pertinent truths. First, we are not to walk by feelings but by faith. Second, we are to be temperate in all things and strive to do those things that will bring glory to God in our lives. Third, we are to be faithful stewards of all that God has given us. The choice to undergo stomach surgery is a serious matter. It is elective surgery, and any surgery comes with its own set of risks. When one makes the choice of whether or not to go ahead with this course of action, he must search his own heart using biblical principles, do some invesIn times of investigation, communicate honestly with physicians, and rely on God to uncover the correct decision. “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:1-2).
