Biblical Answer

The Bible speaks clearly about the dangers of excessive drinking and drunkenness, but it does not explicitly forbid drinking alcoholic beverages. In fact, in the Old Testament, wine and strong drink were seen as a blessing from God, but also as a potential danger. The New Testament continues this theme, warning of the dangers of excessive drinking and drunkenness, and listing it alongside other sinful behaviors such as sexual immorality, thievery, and greed. The Bible teaches that drunkenness is against God and his law, and that it is always called sin, never sickness.

The Bible is clear that a pattern of drunkenness is a serious sin that can lead to eternal consequences. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, it is listed alongside other sinful behaviors as a reason why someone will not inherit the kingdom of God. In Galatians 5:19-21, it is included in the list of works of the flesh, which are opposed to the Spirit. The Bible teaches that Christians who struggle with drunkenness need to repent and seek help, not just forgiveness. As the apostle Paul wrote, "Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will" (Romans 12:2).

For Christians who struggle with alcoholism, the Bible teaches that they need to "dry out" and learn new habits. They need to learn to walk in the Spirit and to live a life that is controlled by the Holy Spirit, not by their fleshly desires. As the Bible says, "The sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God" (Romans 8:7). Christians who struggle with alcoholism need to seek help and support, and to learn to live a life that is controlled by the Holy Spirit, not by their fleshly desires.