What is God's view on the consumption of alcohol?
Judges 13:2-7 and Luke 1:13-15 The above verses foretell of the birth of important leaders and prophets who "shall not engage in the consumption of wine nor strong drink". Surely God places a value on sobriety?
Luke 1:13 - 15
ESV - 13 But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.
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Asked December 21 2023
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G Wagener
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Tim Maas
I would say that the Bible does not absolutely condemn or prohibit the consumption of alcohol (since there are multiple verses that speak of wine in a positive light), but instead is critical of its influence or effect on individuals and their behavior when they abuse it to the point of drunkenness, or consume it in excess. Christians must exercise restraint in that regard, especially if they are genetically predisposed to dependency.
Jack Gutknecht
"People who drink to drown their sorrow should be told that sorrow knows how to swim." - Ann Landers But then, "Why did God create and ordain wine and strong drink? Because alcohol depresses the central nervous system to help a person relax, forget the negative things in his life, and feel warm with joy and contentment. He made it to put gladness in his heart (Judges 9:13; Psalm 104:14-15; Eccl 10:19). Read the proverb again, and follow the single pronoun “him” into the next verse (Pr 31:6-7). King James Version" --Daily Proverb 31:6 See what Zachary Campbell said about Psalm 104 & Proverbs 31 above. Proverbs 31:6, then, says, 'Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.' [I would think this means, 'do this (v. 6 'Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.') but do it rarely, i.e. on a rare occasion, sparingly]. "The perishing and heavy hearts are depression. Wine and strong drink cause a man to forget his poverty and misery, even when very discouraged." --Daily Proverb 31:6 However, on the other hand, as the son of 2 parents who drank to excess and got drunk, especially on weekends, I would say avoid it. "The Bible warns against spending time with winebibbers and drunkards" - Pr 23:20-21 --Executable Outlines "It can lead to woe and sorrow, contentions and complaints, wounds without cause and redness of eyes" - Pr 23:29-30 It is seductive, and can destroy one just like the seductress - Pr 23:31-32; 5:3-5; 6:24-26. It can alter your senses, leading you to say things you'll later regret (e.g., 'office parties') - Pr 23:33 It gives a false sense of security, exposing you to great danger (e.g., 'driving drunk')" - Pr 23:34-35 --Executable Outlines' Wisdom Regarding Alcohol
Zachary Campbell
The Bible presents a nuanced view on alcohol consumption, offering both positive and negative perspectives. Here's a breakdown: **Positive view:** * **Gift from God:** Wine is often depicted as a blessing from God, bringing joy and celebration (Psalm 104:15, Proverbs 31:6-7). * **Used in religious ceremonies:** Wine was used in the Old Testament rituals and offerings (Exodus 29:40, Numbers 15:5-10). * **Symbolism:** Wine and grapes are used symbolically in the Bible, representing abundance, love, and even the blood of Christ (John 15:5). **Negative view:** * **Excess condemned:** Drunkenness and its consequences are strongly condemned throughout the Bible (Proverbs 20:1, 23:29-35, Ephesians 5:18). * **Impairs judgment:** The Bible warns that alcohol can cloud judgment and lead to sinful actions (Proverbs 23:33-35). * **Potential for addiction:** The Bible emphasizes self-control and warns against becoming enslaved to anything, including alcohol (1 Corinthians 6:12). **Important considerations:** * **Moderation:** While not explicitly mandated, most interpretations emphasize responsible consumption and avoiding excess. * **Context matters:** The Bible sometimes describes alcohol consumption in positive contexts like celebrations, while other times highlighting its dangers. * **Freedom of choice:** Ultimately, the Bible doesn't impose a universal rule on alcohol but encourages individuals to make mindful choices based on their faith and convictions. **Different interpretations:** It's crucial to remember that various Christian denominations and individuals interpret these passages differently. Some advocate for total abstinence, while others believe moderate consumption is permissible. Remember, I cannot definitively state God's view, but I hope this overview helps you understand the multifaceted Biblical perspective on alcohol and consider it within your own faith journey.
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