9. Is Drinking Alcohol a Sin?
Drink because you are happy, but never because you are miserable. Never drink when you are wretched without it, or you will be like the grey-faced gin-drinker in the slum; but drink when you would be happy without it, and you will be like the laughing peasant of Italy. Never drink because you need it, for this is rational drinking, and the way to death and hell. But drink because you do not need it, for this is irrational drinking, and the ancient health of the world.
G.K. CHESTERTON
The Bible isn’t silent on the issue of drinking alcohol. In fact, a simple search will show you that the Scriptures are replete with advice related to alcohol. In a nutshell, the Bible doesn’t condemn drinking, but it does condemn drunkenness.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul writes, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). Drunkenness is forbidden because it leads to a lack of self-control, foolish behavior, irresponsibility, and a life racked with consequences. Paul couldn’t be clearer. He straight up warns his readers to avoid drunkenness and instead admonishes his audience to live a Spirit-controlled life.
As we consider what the Bible has to say about drinking alcohol, here are some guidelines.
First, refuse to be mastered by alcohol. If you do drink, drink moderately (1 Corinthians 6:12).
Secondly, avoid being a stumbling block to the weaker brother (see Romans 14:15-21). If you’re in a situation where you can drink but you know that someone is struggling to quit drinking, avoid alcohol out of compassion for him.
Last, but not least, determine to pursue Christ as your ultimate pleasure in life (Proverbs 21:17; Philippians 1:21). Sometimes people escape to alcohol because their walk with Christ is on the lukewarm side. If you do drink, be careful to not drink as a means of escape, which can obviously lead to further problems.
I haven’t had a drink since October 9, 1994, when I got clean from a hard party lifestyle. And I’m thankful that I was able to find a church and some Christian friends who were considerate of me during those early stages of sobriety. All these years later it’s not a problem for me to be around alcohol. In fact, I’ll even pour it for my bride, who can appreciate a glass of Pinot Grigio. The two of us are wired totally differently. I was mastered by alcohol, but Heather can drink in moderation.
So know yourself. If there’s any question, I’d suggest avoiding it altogether. If you’re susceptible to addiction here’s one thing you can count on—you’ll never be addicted if you avoid it. In the end, it’s wisest to not drink, but if you do drink, drink wisely.
Thought to Ponder
It’s one thing to enjoy alcohol in moderation and another thing to use alcohol as a form of escape.
Wise is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise (Proverbs 20:1).
Question to Consider
When it comes to alcohol, do you master it or does it master you?
One-Minute Apologist Video
Bobby Conway, “Is Drinking Alcohol a Sin?”