Is Drinking Alcohol a Sin?

The Bible's answer

It is not a sin to drink alcohol in moderation. (a glass or two, not 20, or 30 or more)  The Bible describes wine as a gift from God that can make life more enjoyable.  (Psalm 104:14, 15; Ecclesiastes 3:13; 9:7) The Bible also acknowledges the medicinal value of wine. -1 Timothy 5:23.

Jesus drank wine during his time on earth.  (Matthew 26:29; Luke 7:34) In one of his well-known miracles, Jesus turned water into wine as  a generous gift at a marriage feast. -John 2:1-10. 

Dangers of overindulging

While the Bible mentions the positive aspects of wine, it condemns over-indulging and drunkenness. Thus, a Christian who chooses to drink alcohol would do so only  in moderation.  (1 Timothy 3:8; Titus 2:2, 3. 

* It impairs thinking ability and judgment. (Proverbs 23:29-35) And intoxicated person cannot fulfill the Bible's command to "present your bodies  as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason." -Romans 12:1.

* Over indulging removes inhibitions and "the motivation to do what is right." -Hosea 4:11; Ephesians 5:18. 

* It can lead to poverty and serious health problems. -Proverbs 23:21, 31, 32. 

* Heavy drinking and drunkenness displeases God. - Proverbs 23:20; Galatians 5:19-21. 

Next time: Is Drinking Alcohol a Sin? /How much is too much?

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