The Bible does not forbid drinking alcohol, but it clearly warns against drunkenness and the dangers that come with it. Ephesians 5:18 commands, “And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.” The issue is not the presence of alcohol, but the loss of self-control and the destruction it brings.
Proverbs offers strong warnings. Proverbs 20:1 says, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” Again, in Proverbs 23:29-32, it vividly describes the misery and deceit of alcohol, ending with, “At the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like a viper.”
Paul instructs Timothy in 1 Timothy 5:23, “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.” This shows that moderate use was acceptable, even medicinal.
The key principle is stewardship and sobriety. 1 Peter 5:8 warns, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” Anything that dulls the senses, clouds judgment, or leads to sin must be rejected.
So while drinking is not inherently sinful, the Christian must walk in wisdom, be above reproach, and not be brought under the power of anything, as Paul says in 1 Corinthians 6:12.
