Where does “everything in moderation” come from?

It comes from ancient Greek thought. The temple at Delphi bore the maxim “nothing in excess,” and Aristotle taught the golden mean, the idea that virtue lies between extremes of excess and deficiency. The modern phrase grew out of that classical wisdom and is not found in any book of the Bible.

Does the Bible teach moderation?

The Bible teaches self-control and temperance, which is related but not identical. Galatians 5:23 lists self-control as fruit of the Spirit, and Philippians 4:5 calls for a gentle, moderate spirit. But Scripture never endorses moderation in all things, because some things, like sin, are to be put off entirely rather than balanced.

Why does the difference matter?

Because “everything in moderation” can be misread as permission for a little of anything. The Bible's call to self-control targets our appetites so we honor God, while it commands us to flee sin outright, not to practice it in small doses. The wording matters for how we live.

Does the Bible say it?

“Everything in moderation”: is it in the Bible?

No, this is not in the Bible. “Everything in moderation” descends from ancient Greek thought, the Delphic maxim “nothing in excess” and Aristotle's golden mean. Scripture does commend self-control and a gentle, temperate spirit in Galatians 5:23 and Philippians 4:5, but it never says “moderation in all things,” which would wrongly imply moderation even in sin.

VerdictNot in the Bible at all

What it actually is

This maxim comes from ancient Greek philosophy, not the Bible. The Delphic inscription “nothing in excess” and Aristotle's idea of the golden mean, virtue as a middle path between extremes, stand behind the modern phrase “everything in moderation.” It is classical wisdom that entered common speech and is sometimes mistaken for Scripture.

There is an important nuance here. The Bible praises self-control and temperance, but it does not teach moderation in all things without exception. Taken literally, “everything in moderation” would suggest a little sin is acceptable, which Scripture flatly rejects. The biblical virtue is disciplined self-control, not a balanced measure of every behavior.

What the Bible actually says

Instead of moderation in all things, the Bible calls for self-control and a temperate, gentle spirit.

“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.”

Philippians 4:5

“Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

Galatians 5:23

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A better question than the quote

Behind every “is this in the Bible?” is a gentler one: what does the Bible actually say, and who is the Jesus at the center of it? You do not have to take our word for it, ours least of all. Read his own words and see for yourself. It costs nothing but a little quiet and an honest look.

Meet Jesus His words and acts Read the Gospel of John

Jesus Christ is Lord.

Frequently asked questions

Where does “everything in moderation” come from?: It comes from ancient Greek thought. The temple at Delphi bore the maxim “nothing in excess,” and Aristotle taught the golden mean, the idea that virtue lies between extremes of excess and deficiency. The modern phrase grew out of that classical wisdom and is not found in any book of the Bible.
Does the Bible teach moderation?: The Bible teaches self-control and temperance, which is related but not identical. Galatians 5:23 lists self-control as fruit of the Spirit, and Philippians 4:5 calls for a gentle, moderate spirit. But Scripture never endorses moderation in all things, because some things, like sin, are to be put off entirely rather than balanced.
Why does the difference matter?: Because “everything in moderation” can be misread as permission for a little of anything. The Bible's call to self-control targets our appetites so we honor God, while it commands us to flee sin outright, not to practice it in small doses. The wording matters for how we live.

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