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Kidney and liver disease, deaths due to drunk driving, degenerate brain function, financial loss and grief are but a fraction of the ills that alcohol consumption has inflicted upon our society. Even though the number of alcohol abuse victims may be less than the number of ‘casual’ drinkers, it cannot be denied that alcohol consumption patterns are a growing concern. But what does that have to do with the Christian community?
When it comes to Christians and the consumption of alcohol, there are differing views on whether God requires abstinence or moderation. There are Christians who ask, “what’s wrong with a little alcohol?”, “Can’t we take a little for the stomach’s sake?”, “If Jesus turned water to wine, then drinking can’t be a sin”. Decades ago, most Christians would have considered drinking alcohol a sin. Today, some accept moderate drinking as palatable; but what does God have to say about the matter? Has His position on the subject softened over the years? As with any Biblical debate, it is imperative that we turn to scripture. Though this article cannot dissect all the existing dialogue concerning Christians and alcohol consumption, it should provide anyone who desires to please God with sufficient context to establish their convictions.
Some jest that they drink for their “stomach’s sake” and in doing so, they try to quote 1st Timothy 5: 23 which says, “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities”, as their supporting scripture. To those individuals I say “context lends credence to understanding scripture. In Biblical times diluted wine was a common drink and often considered healthier than the available water. As our society currently stands, where clean water is widely acceptable, alcohol must and should not be substituted for water.
The bible warns us about alcohol, offering clear instructions and apprehensions. Proverbs 20:1 states: “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler and whoever is led astray by it is not wise”. Proverbs 31: 4-5, It is not for kings O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine or for rulers to take a strong drink, lest they drink and forget what has been decreed and pervert the rights of the afflicted.” Hosea 4: 11 reads “Beware of wine and new wine, which take away the understanding. These verses caution the influence alcohol has on mood and behavior. Alcohol does not respect your societal or financial position, status or education. Anyone who is led astray by alcohol is not wise.
Additionally, the Bible shares that those consecrated to God’s service, such as the Nazarites, were to totally abstain from drinking strong drinks (Judges 13:4, Leviticus 10:9). At the time of their administering of sacred things, the priests were not to be under the influence of wine Ezekiel 44: 21, outlines that “No priest shall drink wine when he enters the inner court. Titus 1:7 reads “For a bishop* must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money. Additionally, 1 Timothy 3:8 state that “Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued or given to much wine or greedy for money.” These verses, however, do not dogmatically prove that the Bible prohibits drinking alcohol. What we are certain of is that the Bible forbids excessive drinking and drunkenness. It is sin (1st Corinthians 6:18).
Christians should consider the effect their witness and testimony has on the unsaved. As Christians, we ought to live as an example and should try to avoid any practice(s) that would cause others to stumble. 1st Thessalonians 5:22 warns believers to “abstain from all appearance of evil” and the effects of alcohol drinking portrays the appearance of evil. Additionally, a Christian that has committed to being a member of a congregation that prohibits drinking, should honor that commitment. They should abstain from drinking; whether publicly or privately. God honors vows and it is better to not make a vow than to make a vow and break it (Ecclesiastes 5:5). Our bodies should be treated as the temple of the Holy Ghost, and whatever we eat, or drink should be consumed to the glory of God. When a Christian drinks alcohol and it results in blaspheme against God, then that drinking is not glorifying to God.
Finally, a Christian who is unsure about alcohol, should always examine their motives for wanting to partake. If the reasons are to escape their challenges, numb their emotional pain, and “fit in”, they should turn to God in prayer and read the scripture. Social drinking can become habitual and addictive. For this reason, Christians should guard their hearts; knowing that their bodies should be yielded as instruments unto God alone, not intoxicating substances. When the Spirit of God brings conviction to a Christian and forbids that person from drinking alcohol, that believer should obey, regardless of societal standards or religious opinion. Romans 14: 12 reminds us that “each of us will give an account of ourselves to God” and it is with that account in mind that we ought to live our life. As we traverse deeper into the season of “drink and be merry”, many may feel tempted to partake in the spirits of the season. During this time, many struggle with the internal debate of “Should I?” or “Shouldn’t I?”. In these moments, I urge Christians to not be moved by the spectacle of “the season”, but to remember the true reason for the season, the gift of Jesus Christ. As you celebrate the holidays, may your life and your cup be filled with all that is pleasing to God.
Dr. Joycelyn Hoyte is a Licensed and Ordained Minister of the Assemblies of God Peninsular Florida District, Biblical Counselor and Certified Christian Coach. She is also the author of the book “Experience the Marriage of Your Dreams”.
