Biblical Answer

The Question of Drinking

The question of whether pastors and church leaders can drink is a complex one. 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 10:9). However, Jesus affirms that those who are faithful will indeed drink, suggesting that they will experience a spiritual immersion that will overwhelm them (Matthew 20:22-23).

The Importance of Conscience

While some Christians may believe that drinking alcoholic beverages is legitimate, it is essential to consider the potential impact on others. As 1 Corinthians 8-10 teaches, if our actions could lead other Christians to stumble or become a hazard to their growth and success, we must refrain from doing them. This is not about what would hurt or destroy others, but about being mindful of their consciences and not becoming a stumbling block to them. In the same way, some Christians may feel that drinking could lead others to sin or compromise their faith, and so they must exercise self-control and refrain from drinking.

The Biblical Standard

The biblical standard for leaders, including pastors and church leaders, is one of temperance and self-control. As 1 Timothy 3:2-3 teaches, deacons must not be addicted to much wine, and elders or pastors must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. This means that they must be careful to avoid behaviors that could be seen as compromising their faith or leading others astray. Ultimately, the decision to drink or not drink is a personal one, but it must be made with a clear conscience and a commitment to living a life that reflects the values and teachings of Jesus Christ. As the apostle Paul writes, "Do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18). In this sense, the question of drinking is not just about what we consume, but about the kind of people we are becoming and the kind of leaders we are called to be.