posted on 01.11.2010
Are there times when drinking alcohol is appropriate?
The short answer is yes. And with a simple question and answer we find ourselves in a mine field. Some parts of the American Church hold to a very strict view of abstinence concerning alcohol—not one drop, ever. While there is wisdom in this on a certain level, given the extent and devastation of alcoholism in our country, it really is a bit of an anomaly. It also goes beyond the Scriptures.
Historically, wine has played a large part in Jewish festivals (particularly Passover) and was used in the Last Supper, and so became the familiar sacrament—the bread and wine of Holy Communion. It will not do to claim, as some do, that the wine used was not fermented (just grape juice). There were, of course, non fermented drinks available, but “wine,” whether in Hebrew, Greek, or English, literally refers to a fermented beverage.
Throughout the Scriptures we see the use of wine as part of meals (Genesis 27:25), included in offerings (Exodus 29:40; 1 Chronicles 9:29), suggested for personal use (Deuteronomy14:26), for hospitality (Genesis 14:18), and for gifts (1 Samuel 16:20). It was used medicinally (Proverbs 31:6-7; Luke 10:34; 1 Timothy 5:23), and was a regular feature of celebrations, not to mention the focus of a stupendous miracle (John 2:3-10). Small wonder that the psalmist listed among the blessings of the Lord, “wine that gladdens the heart of man” (Psalm 104:15). But this is only part of the story.
While the wine of the ancient world was not as strong as it is today, the potential for intoxication was always lurking. And that’s where we find the real problem—not with its use, but abuse. This is the background against which we read warnings about alcohol:
“Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1).
“Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine” (Proverbs 23:29-30).
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).
These and other warnings against abusing alcohol must be read with the legitimate use in mind.
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