Alcohol consumption is a controversial topic in today’s society, and many seemingly have cordial opinions on the matter. But coming from a biblical perspective, it is clear the stance the Bible takes regarding alcohol consumption.
John 2: 9-10 (NIV)
9 When the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine, he did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside 10 and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.”
This verse gives an account of the first miracle Jesus performed according to scripture. Not only did it turn water into wine, it was described as the best wine that was saved until last. This implies that the wine was to be consumed, yet by no means is this confirmation of condoning alcohol consumption. In fact, it does quite the opposite.
Romans 14:21 (NIV)
It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.
This verse calls for sobriety among those who are susceptible to stumble. It is applicable to alcohol as it is with anything that would lead someone astray in their morals. The judgement behind the right or wrong comes from the inner concious. It is not for the individual to judge as it may hurt the fellow believer.
Titus 2:2-7 (NIV)
2 Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance.
3 Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good.
4 Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children,
5 to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.
6 Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled.
7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness
Not only does the Bible call its followers to practice temperance in regards to alcohol, it also calls for respect of older men and women. Those of age shall not succumb to slandering and addiction to wine but instead, provide an example of morality and integrity.
1 Corinthians 10:31-33 (NIV)
31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
32 Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God—
33 even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.
Having an awareness of the influence of our actions, even something as mundane as the foods we chose to consume, can directly reflect the kind of testimony we are trying to pass on to those around us. Whether it be at home or elsewhere, our decisions should be based off of what glorifies God, not our own selves.
Proverbs 23:19-21 (NIV)
19 Listen, my son, and be wise,
and keep your heart on the right path.
20 Do not join those who drink too much wine
or gorge themselves on meat,
21 for drunkards and gluttons become poor,
and drowsiness clothes them in rags.
The Bible provides two deterrents with regards to alcohol: gluttony and poverty. Gluttony is equated with excessive drinking and can lead to poverty. Not only does it pass on a poor example to the younger generations, but it also exposes individuals to sin as a result of lowered inhibitions.
Ephesians 5:18 (NIV)
Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
Much like other verses, this one calls
