Biblical Answer

The Bible's Teaching on Drinking

The Bible contains several passages that address the issue of drinking. In the Old Testament, God issued warnings to His servants to abstain from drinking, and the priests were forbidden from drinking before they served in the Tabernacle (Leviticus 10:8-11). The New Testament also has teachings on this topic. In 1 Corinthians 8-10, the apostle Paul warns against drinking anything that could lead others to stumble or be tempted to sin. He emphasizes that Christians should not do anything that would cause their brothers or sisters to stumble (Romans 14:13-16). The key principle here is that Christians should not do anything that would cause others to sin or be tempted to sin.

The Case for Abstinence

Some passages in the Bible suggest that drinking can be problematic. Deacons, for example, are required to be serious, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, and not greedy for gain (1 Timothy 3:2-3). The apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of temperance and how the godly man must avoid being controlled by his desires, including the desire to drink excessively. The apostle also warns against the dangers of alcohol, comparing it to idols that people turn to when they do not trust God to provide for them (1 Corinthians 10:6-10). In Revelation 14:10, we read that those who reject God will experience divine judgment and "drink the cup of God's wrath."

The Case for Moderation

However, there are also passages in the Bible that suggest that drinking can be acceptable. In 1 Timothy 5:23, the apostle Paul tells Timothy to "stop drinking only water, and use a little wine for your stomach's sake and for your frequent ailments." This passage suggests that drinking can be a legitimate way to take care of one's health. The apostle also says that those who reject God will experience divine judgment, but those who follow God will experience God's mercy and forgiveness (Matthew 26:42). The key principle here is that Christians should not drink to excess or to the point where they are controlled by their desires, but rather drink in moderation and with a clear conscience. Ultimately, the Bible teaches that Christians should not be controlled by their desires, but rather by the Spirit of God (Galatians 5:16-24). Christians should drink in a way that honors God and does not lead others to stumble or be tempted to sin.