What does the Bible say about alcohol?
The Bible presents a nuanced perspective on alcohol consumption, neither explicitly forbidding it nor giving unrestricted approval. Several passages actually speak of alcohol in positive terms, with Ecclesiastes 9:7 encouraging people to drink wine with a merry heart, and Psalm 104:14-15 describing wine as a gift from God that brings gladness to the human heart. The text encourages people to eat, drink, and give thanks to God for what they have.
However, the Bible simultaneously provides strong warnings about the dangers of excessive drinking and drunkenness. Proverbs 23:29-35 vividly describes the perils of overindulgence, and multiple passages emphasize that Christians should avoid being controlled by any substance, including alcohol. This principle extends to modern contexts, where some struggle with using artificial stimulants to work extensively, only to find their efforts leading to emptiness, burden, and restlessness.
The biblical perspective also emphasizes consideration for others in alcohol consumption. Christians are encouraged to consider how their drinking might affect those around them, particularly avoiding actions that could cause others to stumble in their faith or act against their conscience. This reflects a broader call for Christians to prioritize love and unity within their communities.
The overarching principle presented is that all activities, including eating and drinking, should be done to honor God. This extends to following societal laws regarding alcohol consumption, such as legal drinking age restrictions. The matter of alcohol consumption is generally considered a "tertiary issue" or "disputable matter" among Christians, meaning individuals may hold different convictions without compromising their faith. Some believers might consider all alcohol consumption sinful due to its potential to lead to drunkenness, while others view only drunkenness itself as problematic.
Verses about alcohol:
Ephesians 5:18, "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit."
Proverbs 20:1, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise."
1 Corinthians 6:10, "Nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God."
Proverbs 23:29-31, "Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who tarry long over wine; those who go to try mixed wine. Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly."
1 Timothy 5:23, "No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments."
