the seat of the carnal affections (Tit 1:12; Php 3:19; Ro 16:18). The word is used symbolically for the heart (Pr 18:8; 20:27; 22:18, marg.). The "belly of hell" signifies the grave or underworld (Jon 2:2).
Turn away from them. For men of that stamp are not the slaves of Christ, but are slaves to their own appetites. By their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent.
Their end is destruction, their belly is their god, their glory is in their shame, and their minds are set on earthly things.
By one of their own number, by a prophet of their own, it has been said, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, idle gluttons."
BELLY is used in Scripture for gluttony, Tit 1:12; Philipians 3:16; Ro 16:18. For the heart, or the secrets of the mind, Pr 20:27,30; 22:18. The "belly of hell" signifies the grave, or some imminent danger, or deep distress, Jon 2:2; Ecclus. 2:5.
Turn away from them. For men of that stamp are not the slaves of Christ, but are slaves to their own appetites. By their smooth and fair speech they beguile the hearts of the innocent.
By one of their own number, by a prophet of their own, it has been said, "Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, idle gluttons."