The drinking of alcohol has often been a topic of heated debate in Christian circles—and for good reason. Most of us know the potency of alcohol and have seen its effects—from slurred speech and disorientation to drunk driving, violence, and sexual immorality. There are some who would say that we should abstain from alcohol entirely. And for some—those who are addicted to alcohol, for example—that would be wise. But what does the Bible actually say about drinking?
Drunkenness Is Prohibited
First, drunkenness is clearly prohibited. The apostle Paul reminds us:
And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ. (Eph. 4:18–21)
When God’s word says, “do not,” it is a command, not a suggestion. It brooks no exceptions. In our culture, you are allowed to get drunk as long as you don’t get behind the wheel. But the Bible says, you are not allowed to get drunk, period.
Drinking Alcohol in Moderation Is Permitted
Second, alcohol is clearly permitted. When Jesus turned water into wine in John 2, he was doing so for the enjoyment of the guests at the wedding (who would’ve also already consumed wine). Paul recommends wine to Timothy to help with his stomach ailments (1 Tim. 5:23). But alcohol is not only permitted for medicinal purposes. The Psalmist speaks of wine that “gladden[s] the heart of man” as a blessing (Ps. 104:15). Alcohol—in moderation—is meant to be enjoyed!
So how to strike a balance between abstinence and drunkenness? How do you treat alcohol as a gift to be enjoyed, and not as something to be abused?
How to Enjoy the Good Gift
Remember the great words from Paul: “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31). If you are drinking with God’s glory in view, you will likely keep alcohol within its proper place. You are more likely drinking to celebrate the giver and his good gifts than to replace him with debauchery.
And remember God’s mercies in Christ in order to offer your body up as a living sacrifice (Rom. 12:1). If you remember Christ’s love, you will be less likely to use alcohol to fill your loneliness. If you remember that Christ is your healer, you will be less likely to use alcohol to numb your pain. Alcohol abuse is an escape; Jesus is our refuge.
Think about all the reasons why someone might drink to excess: to escape the unhealed traumas of the past; to numb the loneliness and feelings of unimportance; to cope with stressors that seem out of control. Jesus tells us, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28). We need him, not the bottle. And we find his grace in the preaching and reading of his word, in prayer, in the fellowship of his people. And he is certainly not averse to using counselors and medication, if needed, for our good as well!
Finally, surround yourself with those who are committed to treating alcohol in the same way you are—particularly those fellow believers who are committed to “stir up one another to love and good works” (Heb. 10:24). There is greater wisdom in the counsel of God’s people, and greater restraint amongst those committed together to the glory of God.
