What does the Bible say about drinking alcohol?
A Biblical Perspective on Alcohol
The Bible addresses the topic of alcohol extensively, offering both warnings about its dangers and acknowledgment of its place in certain contexts. For Christians, the key is to approach alcohol with wisdom, self-control, and a desire to honor God in all things. The Bible does not explicitly forbid the consumption of alcohol, but it does strongly warn against drunkenness and its destructive consequences.
Alcohol in the Bible: Positive Mentions
While Scripture often warns about the dangers of alcohol, it also speaks of wine in positive terms in specific contexts:
Ecclesiastes 9:7: “Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart; for God has already accepted your works.”
This verse suggests that wine, when consumed appropriately, can be a part of life’s joys.Psalm 104:14–15: “He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, and vegetation for the service of man, that he may bring forth food from the earth, and wine that makes glad the heart of man, oil to make his face shine, and bread which strengthens man’s heart.”
Here, wine is portrayed as a blessing from God, part of His provision for humanity.Amos 9:14: “I will bring back the captives of My people Israel; they shall build the waste cities and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and drink wine from them; they shall also make gardens and eat fruit from them.”
Drinking wine is described as a symbol of restoration and blessing from God.Isaiah 55:1: “Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”
Wine is included in this imagery of abundant provision and blessing.
The Dangers of Alcohol: Biblical Warnings
Scripture provides numerous warnings about the misuse of alcohol and the destructive consequences of drunkenness:
Proverbs 20:1: “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.”
This verse highlights the danger of being deceived and led astray by alcohol.Proverbs 23:29–35:
“Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who linger long at the wine, those who go in search of mixed wine. Do not look on the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it swirls around smoothly; at the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like a viper. Your eyes will see strange things, and your heart will utter perverse things. Yes, you will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, or like one who lies at the top of the mast, saying: ‘They have struck me, but I was not hurt; they have beaten me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake, that I may seek another drink?’”
This passage vividly portrays the harmful effects of excessive drinking, including physical harm, loss of self-control, and the cycle of addiction.Ephesians 5:18: “And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.”
Christians are commanded to avoid drunkenness and instead seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit.1 Corinthians 6:12: “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.”
Believers are called to exercise self-control and not allow anything, including alcohol, to master them.
Christian Freedom and Responsibility
While the Bible permits the consumption of alcohol in moderation, it also provides guiding principles for Christians to consider:
Avoid Causing Others to Stumble
1 Corinthians 8:9: “But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak.”
Christians are called to consider how their actions affect others. If drinking alcohol could lead a fellow believer into sin or confusion, it is better to abstain.
Guard Against Addiction
2 Peter 2:19: “While they promise them liberty, they themselves are slaves of corruption; for by whom a person is overcome, by him also he is brought into bondage.”
Alcohol, when consumed in excess, can lead to addiction and enslavement, which Christians are to avoid.
Do All to the Glory of God
1 Corinthians 10:31: “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
If drinking alcohol cannot be done with a clear conscience and to the glory of God, it should be avoided.
Jesus and Alcohol
Jesus Himself is associated with wine in several key instances:
John 2:1–11: At the wedding in Cana, Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine. This wine was recognized as high-quality, underscoring that it was real wine and not mere grape juice.
Matthew 26:29: At the Last Supper, Jesus said, “But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom.”
In New Testament times, wine was often safer to drink than water, which was frequently contaminated. However, wine then was typically less potent than modern alcoholic beverages. Paul advised Timothy to drink a little wine for health reasons:
1 Timothy 5:23: “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.”
Practical Application for Christians
Alcohol, in itself, is not inherently sinful. However, drunkenness, addiction, and causing others to stumble are clearly condemned. For many Christians, the safest and wisest choice is to abstain from alcohol entirely, particularly in contexts where its use could lead to temptation or harm others.
Christians must exercise wisdom, self-control, and love for others in their decisions about alcohol. Every believer should prayerfully consider the following questions:
Can I consume alcohol in moderation without falling into sin?
Will my drinking set a godly example for others?
Does my use of alcohol glorify God?
Conclusion
The Bible acknowledges alcohol as part of God’s creation and a potential blessing when used appropriately. However, it also warns against the dangers of misuse. For Christians, the primary focus should be on living a life that honors God and serves others. Whether a believer chooses to drink alcohol in moderation or abstain entirely, the guiding principles are clear: avoid drunkenness, guard against addiction, and seek to glorify God in all things.
By adhering to these biblical teachings, Christians can approach the issue of alcohol with wisdom, love, and a desire to reflect the character of Christ.
