17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
He wants to teach the congregation what is really important in the church. The discussions about food and drink are not as important as being justified by faith which brings peace and joy (see Romans 5:1–5).
17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.