Biblical Answer

How much drinking is too much?

Too much drinking is a subjective concept, but it is generally defined as the point at which a person loses control over their consumption. This can manifest in various ways, such as binge drinking, blackouts, or consistently exceeding the recommended daily limit. A wise rule of thumb for drinking in moderation is that there should be no more than two drinks every twenty-four hours, and drinking should be limited to five days a week.

Drunkenness and heavy drinking are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct connotations. Drunkenness is typically characterized by a loss of control, resulting in behavior that is not typical of the individual. Heavy drinking, on the other hand, is a pattern of behavior that involves consistently consuming more alcohol than desired. The key difference between the two is that drunkenness is often seen as a temporary state, whereas heavy drinking is a recurring problem. It's essential to note that heavy drinking is not inevitable, and individuals can choose to stop or reduce their consumption at any time.

The line between sin and sickness is often blurred when it comes to drinking. While some people may view excessive drinking as a moral failing, others see it as a disease or addiction. However, the Bible views drunkenness as a sin, rather than a sickness. In Proverbs 23:29-35, it is written, "Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has boisterous noise? Who has contention? Who has the words of bitterness? It is the one who lusts after his neighbor's wife; none who does this shall inherit the kingdom of God. Or take a drink and forget your troubles and you will not remember them in the morning, for will have the sorrow of drinking. It will give you regret, pain, and bitter remorse." (NIV) This passage highlights the consequences of excessive drinking, including loss of self-control, regret, and pain. Ultimately, the question of how much drinking is too much depends on the individual's circumstances and their relationship with God. As Christians, we are called to live a life that honors God, and excessive drinking can hinder our ability to do so. (2 Corinthians 5:15) As the Bible says, "Do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18). In this context, drinking to excess is seen as a form of spiritual intoxication, which can lead to a life of immorality and sin. (1 Corinthians 6:10) Therefore, it's essential to approach drinking with caution and self-control, recognizing that excessive consumption can have serious consequences for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.