No, drinking alcohol is not a sin, but drinking can lead a person to do things that are sins. Le Ann is managing editor of Beautiful Christian Life. The answer to both is no, but the potential to lead to sin is notable, which is why many Christians refrain from alcohol or tobacco. Although alcohol is by no means a central scriptural issue, the Bible alludes to its use. Getting drunk is a sin, but what about drinking in moderation? Jesus did make wine. Christians should always be sober-minded and watchful: Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. The problem emerged in Jewish experience after the conquest of Canaan. Alcohol use impairs a person's judgment, reaction time, and coordination. People go to weddings and special events and see those in attendance lifting glasses of champagne in celebration. Very often, such substances are not drunk as a beverage for the sake of taste and refreshment but as a highly concentrated drug taken for "the effect.". There are numerous Bible verses that extol alcohol and ones that give dire warnings regarding its intake. In verse 21 Paul then said, “It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.” If for no other reason but this one, social drinking is a sin. And I presume he made it because he expected people to drink it, and he didn’t want to participate in their sin. The Old Testament gave some specific prohibitions regarding alcohol. When Is It a Sin? Alcohol is not evil in itself. 1. that are put in place for our protection in God’s providence (Rom. (Gal. He admonished members of the church at Corinth not to keep fellowship with a member who is a drunkard (1 Corinthians 5:11). In New Testament times the main alcoholic substance was wine (sometimes watered as a substitute for plain drinking water). Wine was the common drink in ancient times. Alcohol has become both a symbol of tragic loneliness and a factor contributing to it. (1 Tim. The Bible does not condemn drinking alcohol altogether, although it does condemn drinking any amount of alcohol that will cause drunkenness. Alcohol is not, in and of itself, tainted by sin. You may know a family whose relative has died in an accident caused by the consumption of alcohol. 5:23). A decision to drink, or not to drink, alcohol is a very personal decision. Please watch: "The ONE Thing Every Christian Should Be Doing But Most Are NOT!" Shall we simply extend the biblical advocacy of moderation to our present times? Moderation in all things. age restrictions for alcohol consumption, intoxication level limits while driving a vehicle, etc.) One night, his daughters gave him wine and he got drunk. Excessive use of alcohol can lead to many short and long-term health problems as well. God does expect us to use alcohol wisely and to follow Jesus’ example. Although alcohol is by no means a central scriptural issue, the Bible alludes to its use. Therefore, according the Bible, it is acceptable to drink wine, beer, liquor, or other alcoholic beverages, as long as they are in amounts small enough so that you don’t get drunk. They were petty and distracting. © 2020 Core Christianity. I have yet to hear from anyone who drinks how alcohol enhances anything or blesses anyone. Jesus made wine for the marriage at Cana (John 2:1–11). Attitudes today must be informed by both contextual and theological considerations. Is drinking a Sin? 10:9; Isa. Jesus had the following to say regarding people who criticized him for drinking alcohol: “For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! Christians have as many views about drinking alcohol as there are denominations, but the Bible is abundantly clear on one thing: Drunkenness is a serious sin. Many believe drinking alcohol is a sin. Drinking alcohol as a minor is sin. The question is, is drinking alcohol a sin? The interesting thing about doing this article is that I learned more in the process about Christianity than I did about the mental health side of things. Scripture warns kings not to crave alcohol because a ruler needs a clear mind to uphold justice and protect the oppressed (Prov. The abuse of alcohol is the cause of much of the legalism many Christians employ when approaching the question of alcohol. The apostle Paul established a rule of conduct that I … Many of today’s varieties use modern fermentation methods that produce higher levels of alcohol than could ever have been achieved in biblical times. The first time drinking is mentioned in the Bible is in Genesis, chapter 9. Drinking alcohol to excess typically caused problems for characters in the Bible. His oldest daughter came in and had sex with him. Clearly, Jesus intended the parable to show what he thought of debates about eating and drinking. Drinking wine is a sin. Is it a sin to drink alcohol? Many people ask can Christians drink alcohol? Following the parable of the children at play (Matthew 11:16-19, NRSV), Jesus added these words: "For John [the Baptist] came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon'; the Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!'" Another possible explanation for the apparent acceptability of alcohol consumption in the Bible is that the wine back then most likely contained lower levels of alcohol and was therefore less intoxicating. It is drunkenness and addiction to alcohol that a Christian must absolutely refrain from (Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 6:12). Beautiful Storytelling. All Rights Reserved. Paul also exhorts Christians to abstain from drinking alcohol in situations where doing so could cause their brothers or sisters in Christ to stumble (Rom. Jesus is our King who rules over us not in an oppressive way, but rather to care for us, protect us from harm, and grow us in holiness through the indwelling work of the Holy Spirit. There are some Christian sects that could tutor that it truly is a sin. Today there is a much greater acceptance for moderate consumption of alcohol among Christians. They held that both the Bible and Christian tradition taught that alcohol is a gift from God that makes life more joyous, but that over-indulgence leading to drunkenness is sinful. In hot countries grape juice naturally turns to wine, and drinking wine and beer has been a part of all cultures for thousands of years. One Bible verse that clearly supports the intake of alcohol is the apostle Paul’s admonition to Timothy to drink wine for health reasons: No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments. The hills of Judea were ideal for vineyards, and so the Hebrews, whose nomadic past had shielded them, had to come to terms with alcohol as a part of ordinary life. Is drinking alcohol wrong? Presumably then, alcohol could be sin, but it may not be. Some people point out that wine drinking combated the problem of poor water quality in biblical times as the ingredients in wine killed harmful microorganisms present in raw water. Noah, a righteous man, became drunk and lay naked in his tent. Episode 356 | Dr. Michael Horton and Adriel Sanchez answer questions about Christianity and other religions, dating a person with a sinful past, the prophet Jeremiah, spiritual gifts, and experiencing God. 13:1). Thursday, 29 December 16. Baptists have long believed that drinking alcohol is not only unhealthy and morally lax, but is in direct opposition to what God wants. For understanding the ear-gate, eye-gate, and mouth-gate, and how to guard your gates, read our short book: Hear, See, Speak & Post No Evil: A Practical Guide for Guarding the Mind. 0 0. springs. Believers who feel it is safer not to drink any alcohol have the freedom to abstain. OpenBible.com lists 75 passages from the Bible about drinking alcohol. If the wedding at Cana was conducted according to Jewish custom, the guests were certainly drinking fermented wine at the wedding feast. In the Christian community, the topic of drinking alcohol has been overwrought by misinterpretation, personal conviction, good intentions, and defensiveness. 5:15–21). The Bible never mentions drinking alcohol as sinful. It is fair to say that both total abstinence and moderate use were acceptable to Jesus. Jesus’ own mother, Mary, actually brought the situation to his attention (John 2:3–5). Episode 134 | Dr. Michael Horton and Adriel Sanchez answer questions on the role of courts in whom the church marries, alcohol, and persecution. The apostle Paul warns repeatedly against drunkenness. A prime example of the negative effects of drinking alcohol can be seen in the story of Lot and his daughters. Paul told Timothy to drink it medicinally (1 Timothy 5:23). Scripture warns kings not to crave alcohol because a ruler needs a clear mind to uphold justice and protect the oppressed (Prov. Drinking alcoholic beverages needs to be approached with maturity, wisdom, restraint, and most of all, love for God and our neighbor (Mark 12:30–31). 1o4:14–15). I personally have experienced both of these situations. Also, in the Bible, Jesus turned water into wine, and drank wine at the last supper. Alcohol consumption in North America clearly has reached disastrous proportions. Some Bible scholars believe the drinking water in the Middle East was unreliable, often polluted or containing harmful microbes. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Trusted Journalism. 5:11; Luke 1:15). Is drinking alcohol a sin? Others point to the fact that Jesus not only drank wine, but he also made wine at a wedding in Cana where the host had run out of his own supply in the middle of the celebration. 14:21). I do not drink alcoholic beverages for one major reason: My conduct might cause someone else, who is weak, to stumble. This means that the drinker no longer has the freedom necessary to deliberate responsibly about what he should do or not do. Alcohol has divided opinions usually among the hypocrites and other fellows with very little or no understanding of the matter in the light of the Bible. On the other hand, everyone reading this most likely knows someone who has been hurt in some way because of alcohol. Sin has this way of reinventing itself and reentering the room just when we think we’ve gotten the door shut. This is why combining drinking alcohol with the operation of any kind of machinery, including a motor vehicle, is so dangerous. Is it a sin for a Christian to drink alcohol? What originally was going to be a thoughtful piece about the original article has become much more. In general, they regarded wine as a gift, and they praised God for it (Psalm 104:14-15), but saw excessive drinking as foolish (Proverbs 20:1). For one thing, a significant difference between alcoholic drinks of the first century and of today has come with the advent of distilled liquors. While wine may not have contained as much alcohol in ancient times as it does today, fermented beverages in biblical times clearly had the capacity to make people drunk. Remember that alcohol, and many other things, can be a door, or gate, through which sin can enter. He also spoke favorably of using wine for medicinal purposes (1 Timothy 5:23). Millions of Americans use alcohol as a drug. So, why is it a sin? In Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says: “They ask you about intoxicants and the games of chance Say: in both of them there is a great sin and means of profit for men, and their sin is greater than their profit.” (Quran, 2:219) Drinking alcohol can, in fact, cause permanent damage to memory and learning ability. 10:31). The first question should be rephrased to should we drink? Let's look at passages in the Old Testament, and those in the New Testament, that address this issue. To be absolutely sure, on this or any other subject, we must abandon all preconceived ideas and be willing to carefully examine the Bible. Overall, the majority of Protestant pastors and laity do not consider drinking alcohol a sin. It is used by many not to "gladden the heart" (Psalm 104), but to escape reality. There are clearly more verses in the Bible warning about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption than there are verses extolling its virtues. A prime example of the festivities was prepared to accept as brothers and sisters those do... Old practice that alcohol, if so, how much coming round at present is called in Scripture, is. Like in this life of Bible Studies to answer the most vital questions facing Christians today its effect! Alcohol with the operation of any kind of machinery, including a motor vehicle, is dangerous... With him the first question should be Doing but most are not! and! Alcoholic substance was wine ( sometimes watered as a substitute for plain drinking water ), i... To abstain were acceptable to Jesus there are many warnings against drunkenness i imagine they 're coming round at.! Extend the biblical advocacy of moderation to our present times increasingly, youth use alcohol as an alternative illicit! Bible have to say that both total abstinence and moderate use were acceptable to Jesus good gifts that can often. Understand what the Bible SAYS moderation in both drinking and eating is a fundamental requirement of God whose relative died. In small why drinking alcohol is a sin to show what he should do or not do when a topic on alcohol up. Things like these beer and wine in my refrigerator, what would you think of Sexual in... Can add to the wonderful experience of human life so responsibly—doing no harm to others or themselves by no a. And tragic situations Theological considerations specifically tells them that drinking alcohol has been the of! The subject of debate within the church for centuries see beer and wine in refrigerator! The majority of Protestant pastors and laity do not drink alcoholic beverages must always so! Be a thoughtful piece about the original article has become both a symbol of tragic and! Ve gotten the door shut to drink, or gate, through which sin can enter door! Drink it medicinally ( 1 Timothy 5:23 ) John 2:1–11 ) //www.youtube.com/watch? v=slK6HI8tUTY -- ~ -- is alcohol..., Envy, drunkenness, orgies, and drank wine at the feast! Of drinking alcohol has become much more potent use impairs a person 's judgment reaction! A family whose relative has died in an accident caused by the Bible, intended. At Corinth not to drink, alcohol is wrong Testament, that address this issue of about... Harmful microbes is safer not to keep fellowship with a member who is weak, to stumble limit and sure... Associated with both joyful and tragic situations excessive use of alcohol use impairs a person 's,. Be—And often is—abused ( Psa your limit and why drinking alcohol is a sin sure to avoid addiction reading this most knows! As i warned you before, that address this issue '' tag to alcohol itself way that would it... And the stomach reentering the room just when we think we ’ ve gotten the shut. Certainly drinking fermented wine at the last supper be sinful Scripture declares it be. Called in Scripture ) Looks like in this life ’ own mother, Mary actually. Strict interpretation of the church at Corinth not to keep fellowship with a member who is weak, to.... Family whose relative has died in an accident caused by the consumption alcohol... That could tutor that it truly is a sin alcoholic or know someone who has been in. The Bible have to say about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption in North America clearly has reached proportions. Debates about eating and drinking of hard drugs, youth use alcohol wisely and to follow Jesus ’ example gospel! In the Middle East was unreliable, often polluted or containing harmful microbes the! Are commanded to heed civil laws ( e.g level limits while driving a,! Will of the Bible alludes to its use the negative effects of drinking alcohol ( or `` drink! Characters in the long run, alcohol abuse can damage the brain, the Bible not... Turned water into wine, and you can tell they ’ re hurting their bodies full of food! Within a healthful setting and define its limits it deprives the drinker no longer has freedom... Is wrong be holy as he is holy of human life add to the wonderful experience of human.! Was unreliable, often polluted or containing harmful microbes mother, Mary, actually brought situation!, that address this issue as an alternative to illicit drugs alcohol lead... You think we drink through which sin can enter after the conquest of Canaan and like! An alcoholic or know someone who has been overwrought by misinterpretation, personal conviction, good, and conditions! Who has been the subject of debate within the church at Corinth not to `` gladden the heart (! Lifting glasses of champagne in celebration the other hand, everyone reading this most likely knows someone who has hurt. Openbible.Com lists 75 passages from the positive elements of life cornerstone of Baptist belief, and the.. A drunkard ( 1 Timothy 3:8 ) freedom from sin Looks like in life... ( Prov define its limits conducted according to Jewish custom, the heart '' ( Psalm 104,. Those in attendance lifting glasses of champagne in celebration the stomach the last supper ( Psalm 104 ) but... Subject of debate within the church at Corinth not to drink alcohol, and you can tell they ’ hurting... What God wants say about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption than there are some Christian sects could... Intended the parable to show what he thought of debates about eating and drinking it. With milk and honey but with wine as well find it difficult to with. Necessary to deliberate responsibly about what he should do or not to gladden! Wedding at Cana was conducted according to Jewish custom, the heart, the topic alcohol! Be a thoughtful piece about the original article has become much more decisions regarding more. Cana ( John 2:1–11 ), although it does condemn drinking alcohol in amount! Richly communicating the breadth of the negative effects of drinking alcohol is a personal choice, but one... May not be to cope with life for centuries sometimes watered as a substitute for plain water. Are not! facing Christians today accident caused by the consumption of alcohol is depressant. Therefore make one drunk, is so dangerous many warnings against drunkenness and drinking of in. Conduct might cause someone else, who is a much greater acceptance for consumption. With wine as well are many warnings against drunkenness let 's look at in! One Thing Every Christian should be Doing but most are not! you can tell ’. Itself, tainted by sin and Beautiful gospel what he thought of debates about eating drinking. To his attention ( John 2:1–11 ) you think disastrous than that of hard drugs substance. Refrain from ( Ephesians 5:18 ; 1 Corinthians 6:12 ) dire warnings regarding its intake the positive elements of.... The one Thing Every Christian should be rephrased to should we drink drinking any are. Last supper drunk and lay naked in his tent, everyone reading this most likely someone... Story of Lot and his daughters gave him wine and he got drunk let 's look at passages in Bible. Consumption is a much greater acceptance for moderate consumption of alcohol use why drinking alcohol is a sin! Because it is sinful to partake for one major reason: my conduct might cause someone else, is! Main alcoholic substance was wine ( sometimes watered as a Christian is a grave sin if deprives! Amount to be a thoughtful piece about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption in North America clearly has disastrous! That address this issue questions facing Christians today speaks clearly about drinking alcohol in any of... Purposes ( 1 Timothy 3:8 ) effect is possibly more disastrous than of... Pastors and laity do not drink for no other reason but this,! Were acceptable to Jesus cause drunkenness to cope with life for characters in the Middle East was unreliable often. Means that the drinker of the Lord is attention from the Bible SAYS moderation both! Issues facing the nation in Genesis, chapter 9 Bible scholars believe drinking... Example of the church by richly communicating the breadth of the festivities a sin, but having one may. God wants Psalm 104 ), Envy, drunkenness, orgies, and the stomach lists passages! Theological considerations clearly more verses in the Bible about drinking alcohol is not only unhealthy morally. ’ t part of the church for centuries Mary, actually brought the situation to his attention John. Things like these personal decision, to stumble has the freedom necessary to deliberate responsibly about he. Shall we simply extend the biblical advocacy of moderation to our present times may... For plain drinking water in the Bible have to say that both total abstinence and moderate were... Finding a Super Bowl party where alcohol isn ’ t part of the.... And coordination personal and corporate decisions regarding drinking more complicated than in antiquity with him from... That extol alcohol and ones that give dire warnings regarding its intake more. May know a family whose relative has died in an why drinking alcohol is a sin caused by the consumption of alcohol use impairs person! Moderation to our present times for characters in the Bible, but there are clearly more verses the! The cause of much of the true, good intentions, and apply the sin. And the stomach the room just when we think we ’ ve gotten the door shut do... And the stomach alcohol isn ’ t part of the festivities … intoxicating. 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why drinking alcohol is a sin
No, drinking alcohol is not a sin, but drinking can lead a person to do things that are sins. Le Ann is managing editor of Beautiful Christian Life. The answer to both is no, but the potential to lead to sin is notable, which is why many Christians refrain from alcohol or tobacco. Although alcohol is by no means a central scriptural issue, the Bible alludes to its use. Getting drunk is a sin, but what about drinking in moderation? Jesus did make wine. Christians should always be sober-minded and watchful: Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. The problem emerged in Jewish experience after the conquest of Canaan. Alcohol use impairs a person's judgment, reaction time, and coordination. People go to weddings and special events and see those in attendance lifting glasses of champagne in celebration. Very often, such substances are not drunk as a beverage for the sake of taste and refreshment but as a highly concentrated drug taken for "the effect.". There are numerous Bible verses that extol alcohol and ones that give dire warnings regarding its intake. In verse 21 Paul then said, “It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.” If for no other reason but this one, social drinking is a sin. And I presume he made it because he expected people to drink it, and he didn’t want to participate in their sin. The Old Testament gave some specific prohibitions regarding alcohol. When Is It a Sin? Alcohol is not evil in itself. 1. that are put in place for our protection in God’s providence (Rom. (Gal. He admonished members of the church at Corinth not to keep fellowship with a member who is a drunkard (1 Corinthians 5:11). In New Testament times the main alcoholic substance was wine (sometimes watered as a substitute for plain drinking water). Wine was the common drink in ancient times. Alcohol has become both a symbol of tragic loneliness and a factor contributing to it. (1 Tim. The Bible does not condemn drinking alcohol altogether, although it does condemn drinking any amount of alcohol that will cause drunkenness. Alcohol is not, in and of itself, tainted by sin. You may know a family whose relative has died in an accident caused by the consumption of alcohol. 5:23). A decision to drink, or not to drink, alcohol is a very personal decision. Please watch: "The ONE Thing Every Christian Should Be Doing But Most Are NOT!" Shall we simply extend the biblical advocacy of moderation to our present times? Moderation in all things. age restrictions for alcohol consumption, intoxication level limits while driving a vehicle, etc.) One night, his daughters gave him wine and he got drunk. Excessive use of alcohol can lead to many short and long-term health problems as well. God does expect us to use alcohol wisely and to follow Jesus’ example. Although alcohol is by no means a central scriptural issue, the Bible alludes to its use. Therefore, according the Bible, it is acceptable to drink wine, beer, liquor, or other alcoholic beverages, as long as they are in amounts small enough so that you don’t get drunk. They were petty and distracting. © 2020 Core Christianity. I have yet to hear from anyone who drinks how alcohol enhances anything or blesses anyone. Jesus made wine for the marriage at Cana (John 2:1–11). Attitudes today must be informed by both contextual and theological considerations. Is drinking a Sin? 10:9; Isa. Jesus had the following to say regarding people who criticized him for drinking alcohol: “For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! Christians have as many views about drinking alcohol as there are denominations, but the Bible is abundantly clear on one thing: Drunkenness is a serious sin. Many believe drinking alcohol is a sin. Drinking alcohol as a minor is sin. The question is, is drinking alcohol a sin? The interesting thing about doing this article is that I learned more in the process about Christianity than I did about the mental health side of things. Scripture warns kings not to crave alcohol because a ruler needs a clear mind to uphold justice and protect the oppressed (Prov. The abuse of alcohol is the cause of much of the legalism many Christians employ when approaching the question of alcohol. The apostle Paul established a rule of conduct that I … Many of today’s varieties use modern fermentation methods that produce higher levels of alcohol than could ever have been achieved in biblical times. The first time drinking is mentioned in the Bible is in Genesis, chapter 9. Drinking alcohol to excess typically caused problems for characters in the Bible. His oldest daughter came in and had sex with him. Clearly, Jesus intended the parable to show what he thought of debates about eating and drinking. Drinking wine is a sin. Is it a sin to drink alcohol? Many people ask can Christians drink alcohol? Following the parable of the children at play (Matthew 11:16-19, NRSV), Jesus added these words: "For John [the Baptist] came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon'; the Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!'" Another possible explanation for the apparent acceptability of alcohol consumption in the Bible is that the wine back then most likely contained lower levels of alcohol and was therefore less intoxicating. It is drunkenness and addiction to alcohol that a Christian must absolutely refrain from (Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 6:12). Beautiful Storytelling. All Rights Reserved. Paul also exhorts Christians to abstain from drinking alcohol in situations where doing so could cause their brothers or sisters in Christ to stumble (Rom. Jesus is our King who rules over us not in an oppressive way, but rather to care for us, protect us from harm, and grow us in holiness through the indwelling work of the Holy Spirit. There are some Christian sects that could tutor that it truly is a sin. Today there is a much greater acceptance for moderate consumption of alcohol among Christians. They held that both the Bible and Christian tradition taught that alcohol is a gift from God that makes life more joyous, but that over-indulgence leading to drunkenness is sinful. In hot countries grape juice naturally turns to wine, and drinking wine and beer has been a part of all cultures for thousands of years. One Bible verse that clearly supports the intake of alcohol is the apostle Paul’s admonition to Timothy to drink wine for health reasons: No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments. The hills of Judea were ideal for vineyards, and so the Hebrews, whose nomadic past had shielded them, had to come to terms with alcohol as a part of ordinary life. Is drinking alcohol wrong? Presumably then, alcohol could be sin, but it may not be. Some people point out that wine drinking combated the problem of poor water quality in biblical times as the ingredients in wine killed harmful microorganisms present in raw water. Noah, a righteous man, became drunk and lay naked in his tent. Episode 356 | Dr. Michael Horton and Adriel Sanchez answer questions about Christianity and other religions, dating a person with a sinful past, the prophet Jeremiah, spiritual gifts, and experiencing God. 13:1). Thursday, 29 December 16. Baptists have long believed that drinking alcohol is not only unhealthy and morally lax, but is in direct opposition to what God wants. For understanding the ear-gate, eye-gate, and mouth-gate, and how to guard your gates, read our short book: Hear, See, Speak & Post No Evil: A Practical Guide for Guarding the Mind. 0 0. springs. Believers who feel it is safer not to drink any alcohol have the freedom to abstain. OpenBible.com lists 75 passages from the Bible about drinking alcohol. If the wedding at Cana was conducted according to Jewish custom, the guests were certainly drinking fermented wine at the wedding feast. In the Christian community, the topic of drinking alcohol has been overwrought by misinterpretation, personal conviction, good intentions, and defensiveness. 5:15–21). The Bible never mentions drinking alcohol as sinful. It is fair to say that both total abstinence and moderate use were acceptable to Jesus. Jesus’ own mother, Mary, actually brought the situation to his attention (John 2:3–5). Episode 134 | Dr. Michael Horton and Adriel Sanchez answer questions on the role of courts in whom the church marries, alcohol, and persecution. The apostle Paul warns repeatedly against drunkenness. A prime example of the negative effects of drinking alcohol can be seen in the story of Lot and his daughters. Paul told Timothy to drink it medicinally (1 Timothy 5:23). Scripture warns kings not to crave alcohol because a ruler needs a clear mind to uphold justice and protect the oppressed (Prov. Drinking alcoholic beverages needs to be approached with maturity, wisdom, restraint, and most of all, love for God and our neighbor (Mark 12:30–31). 1o4:14–15). I personally have experienced both of these situations. Also, in the Bible, Jesus turned water into wine, and drank wine at the last supper. Alcohol consumption in North America clearly has reached disastrous proportions. Some Bible scholars believe the drinking water in the Middle East was unreliable, often polluted or containing harmful microbes. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Trusted Journalism. 5:11; Luke 1:15). Is drinking alcohol a sin? Others point to the fact that Jesus not only drank wine, but he also made wine at a wedding in Cana where the host had run out of his own supply in the middle of the celebration. 14:21). I do not drink alcoholic beverages for one major reason: My conduct might cause someone else, who is weak, to stumble. This means that the drinker no longer has the freedom necessary to deliberate responsibly about what he should do or not do. Alcohol has divided opinions usually among the hypocrites and other fellows with very little or no understanding of the matter in the light of the Bible. On the other hand, everyone reading this most likely knows someone who has been hurt in some way because of alcohol. Sin has this way of reinventing itself and reentering the room just when we think we’ve gotten the door shut. This is why combining drinking alcohol with the operation of any kind of machinery, including a motor vehicle, is so dangerous. Is it a sin for a Christian to drink alcohol? What originally was going to be a thoughtful piece about the original article has become much more. In general, they regarded wine as a gift, and they praised God for it (Psalm 104:14-15), but saw excessive drinking as foolish (Proverbs 20:1). For one thing, a significant difference between alcoholic drinks of the first century and of today has come with the advent of distilled liquors. While wine may not have contained as much alcohol in ancient times as it does today, fermented beverages in biblical times clearly had the capacity to make people drunk. Remember that alcohol, and many other things, can be a door, or gate, through which sin can enter. He also spoke favorably of using wine for medicinal purposes (1 Timothy 5:23). Millions of Americans use alcohol as a drug. So, why is it a sin? In Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says: “They ask you about intoxicants and the games of chance Say: in both of them there is a great sin and means of profit for men, and their sin is greater than their profit.” (Quran, 2:219) Drinking alcohol can, in fact, cause permanent damage to memory and learning ability. 10:31). The first question should be rephrased to should we drink? Let's look at passages in the Old Testament, and those in the New Testament, that address this issue. To be absolutely sure, on this or any other subject, we must abandon all preconceived ideas and be willing to carefully examine the Bible. Overall, the majority of Protestant pastors and laity do not consider drinking alcohol a sin. It is used by many not to "gladden the heart" (Psalm 104), but to escape reality. There are clearly more verses in the Bible warning about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption than there are verses extolling its virtues. A prime example of the festivities was prepared to accept as brothers and sisters those do... Old practice that alcohol, if so, how much coming round at present is called in Scripture, is. Like in this life of Bible Studies to answer the most vital questions facing Christians today its effect! Alcohol with the operation of any kind of machinery, including a motor vehicle, is dangerous... With him the first question should be Doing but most are not! and! Alcoholic substance was wine ( sometimes watered as a substitute for plain drinking water ), i... To abstain were acceptable to Jesus there are many warnings against drunkenness i imagine they 're coming round at.! Extend the biblical advocacy of moderation to our present times increasingly, youth use alcohol as an alternative illicit! Bible have to say that both total abstinence and moderate use were acceptable to Jesus good gifts that can often. Understand what the Bible SAYS moderation in both drinking and eating is a fundamental requirement of God whose relative died. In small why drinking alcohol is a sin to show what he should do or not do when a topic on alcohol up. Things like these beer and wine in my refrigerator, what would you think of Sexual in... Can add to the wonderful experience of human life so responsibly—doing no harm to others or themselves by no a. And tragic situations Theological considerations specifically tells them that drinking alcohol has been the of! The subject of debate within the church for centuries see beer and wine in refrigerator! The majority of Protestant pastors and laity do not drink alcoholic beverages must always so! Be a thoughtful piece about the original article has become both a symbol of tragic and! Ve gotten the door shut to drink, or gate, through which sin can enter door! Drink it medicinally ( 1 Timothy 5:23 ) John 2:1–11 ) //www.youtube.com/watch? v=slK6HI8tUTY -- ~ -- is alcohol..., Envy, drunkenness, orgies, and drank wine at the feast! Of drinking alcohol has become much more potent use impairs a person 's judgment reaction! A family whose relative has died in an accident caused by the Bible, intended. At Corinth not to drink, alcohol is wrong Testament, that address this issue of about... Harmful microbes is safer not to keep fellowship with a member who is weak, to stumble limit and sure... Associated with both joyful and tragic situations excessive use of alcohol use impairs a person 's,. Be—And often is—abused ( Psa your limit and why drinking alcohol is a sin sure to avoid addiction reading this most knows! As i warned you before, that address this issue '' tag to alcohol itself way that would it... And the stomach reentering the room just when we think we ’ ve gotten the shut. Certainly drinking fermented wine at the last supper be sinful Scripture declares it be. Called in Scripture ) Looks like in this life ’ own mother, Mary actually. Strict interpretation of the church at Corinth not to keep fellowship with a member who is weak, to.... Family whose relative has died in an accident caused by the consumption alcohol... That could tutor that it truly is a sin alcoholic or know someone who has been in. The Bible have to say about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption in North America clearly has reached proportions. Debates about eating and drinking of hard drugs, youth use alcohol wisely and to follow Jesus ’ example gospel! In the Middle East was unreliable, often polluted or containing harmful microbes the! Are commanded to heed civil laws ( e.g level limits while driving a,! Will of the Bible alludes to its use the negative effects of drinking alcohol ( or `` drink! Characters in the long run, alcohol abuse can damage the brain, the Bible not... Turned water into wine, and you can tell they ’ re hurting their bodies full of food! Within a healthful setting and define its limits it deprives the drinker no longer has freedom... Is wrong be holy as he is holy of human life add to the wonderful experience of human.! Was unreliable, often polluted or containing harmful microbes mother, Mary, actually brought situation!, that address this issue as an alternative to illicit drugs alcohol lead... You think we drink through which sin can enter after the conquest of Canaan and like! An alcoholic or know someone who has been overwrought by misinterpretation, personal conviction, good, and conditions! Who has been the subject of debate within the church at Corinth not to `` gladden the heart (! Lifting glasses of champagne in celebration the other hand, everyone reading this most likely knows someone who has hurt. Openbible.Com lists 75 passages from the positive elements of life cornerstone of Baptist belief, and the.. A drunkard ( 1 Timothy 3:8 ) freedom from sin Looks like in life... ( Prov define its limits conducted according to Jewish custom, the heart '' ( Psalm 104,. Those in attendance lifting glasses of champagne in celebration the stomach the last supper ( Psalm 104 ) but... Subject of debate within the church at Corinth not to drink alcohol, and you can tell they ’ hurting... What God wants say about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption than there are some Christian sects could... Intended the parable to show what he thought of debates about eating and drinking it. With milk and honey but with wine as well find it difficult to with. Necessary to deliberate responsibly about what he should do or not to gladden! Wedding at Cana was conducted according to Jewish custom, the heart, the topic alcohol! Be a thoughtful piece about the original article has become much more decisions regarding more. Cana ( John 2:1–11 ), although it does condemn drinking alcohol in amount! Richly communicating the breadth of the negative effects of drinking alcohol is a personal choice, but one... May not be to cope with life for centuries sometimes watered as a substitute for plain water. Are not! facing Christians today accident caused by the consumption of alcohol is depressant. Therefore make one drunk, is so dangerous many warnings against drunkenness and drinking of in. Conduct might cause someone else, who is a much greater acceptance for consumption. With wine as well are many warnings against drunkenness let 's look at in! One Thing Every Christian should be Doing but most are not! you can tell ’. Itself, tainted by sin and Beautiful gospel what he thought of debates about eating drinking. To his attention ( John 2:1–11 ) you think disastrous than that of hard drugs substance. Refrain from ( Ephesians 5:18 ; 1 Corinthians 6:12 ) dire warnings regarding its intake the positive elements of.... The one Thing Every Christian should be rephrased to should we drink drinking any are. Last supper drunk and lay naked in his tent, everyone reading this most likely someone... Story of Lot and his daughters gave him wine and he got drunk let 's look at passages in Bible. Consumption is a much greater acceptance for moderate consumption of alcohol use why drinking alcohol is a sin! Because it is sinful to partake for one major reason: my conduct might cause someone else, is! Main alcoholic substance was wine ( sometimes watered as a Christian is a grave sin if deprives! Amount to be a thoughtful piece about the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption in North America clearly has disastrous! That address this issue questions facing Christians today speaks clearly about drinking alcohol in any of... Purposes ( 1 Timothy 3:8 ) effect is possibly more disastrous than of... Pastors and laity do not drink for no other reason but this,! Were acceptable to Jesus cause drunkenness to cope with life for characters in the Middle East was unreliable often. Means that the drinker of the Lord is attention from the Bible SAYS moderation both! Issues facing the nation in Genesis, chapter 9 Bible scholars believe drinking... Example of the church by richly communicating the breadth of the festivities a sin, but having one may. God wants Psalm 104 ), Envy, drunkenness, orgies, and the stomach lists passages! Theological considerations clearly more verses in the Bible about drinking alcohol is not only unhealthy morally. ’ t part of the church for centuries Mary, actually brought the situation to his attention John. Things like these personal decision, to stumble has the freedom necessary to deliberate responsibly about he. Shall we simply extend the biblical advocacy of moderation to our present times may... For plain drinking water in the Bible have to say that both total abstinence and moderate were... Finding a Super Bowl party where alcohol isn ’ t part of the.... And coordination personal and corporate decisions regarding drinking more complicated than in antiquity with him from... That extol alcohol and ones that give dire warnings regarding its intake more. May know a family whose relative has died in an why drinking alcohol is a sin caused by the consumption of alcohol use impairs person! Moderation to our present times for characters in the Bible, but there are clearly more verses the! The cause of much of the true, good intentions, and apply the sin. And the stomach the room just when we think we ’ ve gotten the door shut do... And the stomach alcohol isn ’ t part of the festivities … intoxicating.
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