What does the Bible say about alcohol?
Here’s a quick answer to this question – “Permissible but Not Necessarily Beneficial.”
The Bible does not explicitly condone the consummation of an alcoholic beverage. In some cases it commends it (e.g., Ps. 104:14–15; Prov. 31:6; Jer. 31:12; 1 Tim. 5:23), and in other cases it strongly condemns drunkenness (Gen. 9:20–27; Deut. 21:20–21; Prov. 20:1; 23:29–35; Rom. 13:13; 1 Cor. 5:11; 6:10; Gal. 5:21; Eph. 5:18; 1 Tim. 3:3, 8; Titus 1:7; 2:3; 1 Peter 4:3).
Let’s consider a few biblical principles that we should keep in mind regarding the use of alcohol;
- Drunkenness is forbidden by God, and it does not form part of the Christian living in God’s eyes.
Ephesians 5:18 (NKJV)
And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit,
- Drinking wine in moderation is permissible (for example, having a drink with your family over a meal). However, it is also important to note that in biblical times the wine was typically diluted by a ratio of 20 parts water to one part wine (essentially wine-flavored water). Some hosts would make a strong drink consisting of one part water and one part wine; however, the Greeks looked upon such people who drank this unmixed wine as Scythian (barbarians). The wine was also used as a medicinal aid for curing stomach illness.
1 Timothy 5:23 (NKJV)
No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.
- We have to ask ourselves that though drinking may be permissible, is it really beneficial? Especially when we know we don’t have any self control to stop it?
1 Corinthians 6:12 (NKJV)
All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
- We must be able to do it without causing another person to stumble. If drinking or the actions thereof harm those around us, it may not be something we should be doing.
Romans 14:21 (NKJV)
It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak.
- We must ask ourselves, are our actions post-drinking honoring towards God? Is our motive for drinking God honoring?
1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)
Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
If you would like to learn more please use the below link from Pastor Mike Winger who gives a balanced / biblical study on the topic of alcohol.
"Permissible but Not Necessarily Beneficial."
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