How should a Christian view bodybuilding / weightlifting?
Introduction
Bodybuilding and weightlifting have become increasingly popular activities and sports in modern culture. As Christians, it’s important we have a biblical perspective on these practices. What does the Bible say about caring for our physical bodies? Are there principles we can apply regarding physical training? Let’s explore what Scripture teaches on this topic.
Our Bodies Are Temples of the Holy Spirit
The Bible makes it clear that our bodies belong to God and are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This means we have a stewardship responsibility to care for our physical bodies in a way that honors God. Proper exercise and nutrition are part of this stewardship. Paul wrote:
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
So engaging in bodybuilding or weightlifting is not wrong in and of itself. Done in the proper way, it can honor God by developing the strength and health of the body He has given us.
Moderation and Balance Are Key
However, the Bible strongly warns against excess of any kind. Paul wrote:
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18)
This principle applies to more than just alcohol. Anything taken to extremes can become idolatrous and distract us from pursuing God wholeheartedly. So while regular exercise is good, an obsessive fixation on body image could be spiritually unhealthy.
As believers, our worth comes from being made in God’s image – not from the shape of our bodies or athletics achievements (Genesis 1:27). True fulfillment is found in Christ, not six-pack abs or a 350-pound bench press (Colossians 2:10).
So balance and moderation are key. Working out regularly is great, but not at the expense of family, church, work and spiritual life. Our identity is in Jesus, not our biceps. Be careful bodybuilding does not become a source of idolatry and unhealthy pride (1 John 2:16).
Develop Bodily Discipline and Perseverance
In moderation, bodybuilding and weightlifting can be useful for developing bodily discipline, perseverance and mental toughness.
Paul emphasized the importance of self-control and perseverance:
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)
Proper training requires determination, consistency and focus. The effort required to stick to a workout regimen can build godly character qualities like self-control. Paul disciplines his body so that it will not hinder his ministry.
So while we should avoid extremes, a regular exercise program can be useful for developing bodily discipline and cultivating perseverance. These qualities will spill over positively into the rest of our lives.
Pursue Godliness, Not Just Aesthetics
Working out to build bodily strength and health is fine, but be cautious of pursuing physical training solely for vain reasons like pride or vanity (1 John 2:16). Our motivation makes all the difference. Training to show off or feed our ego is unhealthy. But exercising to be good stewards of our bodies and cultivate discipline can be beneficial.
The early church father Clement of Alexandria offered this perspective:
“For it is not right that our life should be unregulated… We must not carelessly lose what has been won with much labor and at the price of great suffering… A temperate and healthy way of living produces both health and strength in the body.” (The Instructor Book 3, Chapter 10)
So pursue godliness first. Any physical training should support our higher spiritual goals of serving God and loving others. Don’t only focus on outward appearance to the detriment of developing inward Christlike character. As Paul wrote:
“Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” (1 Timothy 4:7-8)
Look to God for Strength
Ultimately, our physical strength is limited. Even champion bodybuilders grow old and feeble eventually. So while training our bodies is worthwhile, we should look to the Lord as the true source of strength:
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak…those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:29-31)
David wrote:
“The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1)
God can empower us beyond our natural capacities (Ephesians 3:16). While we should be good stewards of our physical health, we have spiritual weapons like prayer, faith and wisdom that are even more powerful.
Set a Godly Example for Others
If we choose to engage in bodybuilding or weightlifting, we should do so in a way that sets a positive example for others. Paul exhorted:
“Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” (Ephesians 5:15-17)
Don’t be a stumbling block to others by promoting unhealthy obsessions, dangerous supplements or immodest attire at the gym. Look for opportunities to glorify God and reflect Christ even in our choice of recreational activities.
Conclusion
In summary, bodybuilding and weightlifting are morally neutral activities that can be done in a godly way if pursued moderately and with the right motives. While caring for our physical bodies is part of our stewardship responsibility, obsessive focus on outward appearance can lead to idolatry and pride. The key is moderation, godly motivation and keeping exercise in balance with the other priorities of spiritual growth, church and family life. Done properly and in submission to God’s wisdom, weightlifting can aid in cultivating bodily discipline and perseverance. But ultimately, we should look to the Lord as the true source of strength. Our calling is to honor Him with our bodies, in the gym and beyond.