In the Bible, alcohol—and wine in particular—is presented with both positive and negative connotations, leading many to question if it’s acceptable for Christians to partake in it today. Let’s explore what Scripture says about alcohol, its uses, and the warnings surrounding it, so we can understand God’s perspective on drinking.
Wine as a Blessing and Gift
Throughout the Bible, wine is often referred to as a gift from God, a symbol of His blessing, and something to be enjoyed in moderation. Psalm 104:14-15 says that God provides wine to “make the heart of man glad,” presenting it as a part of His provision for human enjoyment. Similarly, in Ecclesiastes 9:7, we are encouraged to “eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart; for God has already accepted your works,” indicating that wine was seen as a legitimate source of joy within the bounds of righteous living.
Jesus Himself participated in occasions where wine was enjoyed. In fact, His first public miracle at the wedding in Cana was turning water into wine (John 2:1-11), a celebration where He provided high-quality wine to bless the event. This shows that Jesus did not view wine as inherently sinful, and He even drank wine as part of meals and fellowship (Matthew 11:19). As He was sinless (Hebrews 4:15), His consumption of wine demonstrates that the act of drinking wine in itself is not sin.
Warnings Against Drunkenness and Strong Drink
While wine can be a source of blessing, the Bible is also very clear about the dangers of overindulgence and drunkenness. Proverbs 20:1 warns, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” Here, the caution is about wine’s potential to deceive and lead individuals away from sound judgment. Additionally, Ephesians 5:18 advises, “And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.” Drunkenness is portrayed as a state that disconnects believers from their responsibility to be led by the Spirit, replacing God’s influence with impaired reasoning.
Moreover, Isaiah 5:11 warns, “Woe to those who rise early in the morning, that they may follow intoxicating drink; who continue until night, till wine inflames them!” The consistent message is clear: while wine in moderation is permissible, the excess of it leads to foolishness, debauchery, and ultimately a distance from God.
Christians and the Choice to Drink
For many Christians, the question becomes whether it’s worth the risk to drink at all. Romans 14:21 states, “It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak.” This passage urges caution for those in environments where drinking may cause another believer to stumble or be led into temptation. Even though wine is not inherently sinful, we are called to be mindful of our impact on others, choosing to build up rather than create a stumbling block.
Some Christians may feel convicted to abstain altogether, while others choose to drink responsibly, honoring God with moderation. The Bible leaves room for personal conviction in this area, as long as drunkenness and addiction are avoided.
My Final Thoughts: Walk Wisely with Freedom
Ultimately, drinking wine or alcohol is a matter of personal freedom and discernment for Christians. Wine is seen as a blessing from God, and Jesus Himself drank it, yet the warnings against drunkenness are strong and clear. It’s not the drink that leads to sin but the misuse of it.
For those who choose to drink, let it be done with a heart of thanksgiving and respect for God’s boundaries. In all things, may our choices reflect wisdom, care for others, and a desire to honor God.
