The classic virtue of temperate conduct, especially the avoidance of extremes. Scripture commends moderation as a way of life for Christians, while stressing the need for total commitment to God.
The ideal of moderation
Do not be overly righteous, and do not make yourself too wise. Why should you destroy yourself? Do not be excessively wicked, and do not be a fool. Why should you die before your time? It is good to grasp the one and not let the other slip from your hand. For he who fears God will follow both warnings.
Moderation in a legal context
Exodus 21:23–25 The purpose of this legislation was not to encourage vengeance but to moderate or restrain it. See also Leviticus 24:17–22; Numbers 35:9–15 parallels Deuteronomy 4:41–43, Deuteronomy 19:1–10 One purpose of cities of refuge was to moderate the revenge of families of the murdered.
But if a serious injury results, then you must require a life for a life — eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, and stripe for stripe.
Moderation in personal and social relations
Proverbs 17:27 See also Genesis 43:29–31; Proverbs 12:16, Proverbs 23:4; Galatians 5:22–23
A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit.
Moderation in personal ethics
Titus 2:11–12 See also Proverbs 15:16 Moderation in matters of wealth is affirmed.Matthew 5:33–37; Colossians 4:6 Ephesians 5:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:6–8; 1 Timothy 3:2–3, 1 Timothy 3:8, 1 Timothy 3:11; Titus 1:7–8, Titus 2:2–8
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to everyone. It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age,
Moderation in religious activity
Ecclesiastes 7:16–17 See also Matthew 23:23–26; 1 Corinthians 14:26–33
Do not be overly righteous, and do not make yourself too wise. Why should you destroy yourself? Do not be excessively wicked, and do not be a fool. Why should you die before your time?
Moderation must not lead to being spiritually lukewarm
Revelation 3:15–16 See also Revelation 3:1–2
I know your deeds; you are neither cold nor hot. How I wish you were one or the other! So because you are lukewarm — neither hot nor cold — I am about to vomit you out of My mouth!
Related themes
Dictionary of Bible Themes © 1999 Martin Manser, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0, via Bible Aquifer. Formatted for this site, with Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible.