What does the bible have to say about drinking alcohol and alcoholism?

The Bible addresses the topic of alcohol consumption and alcoholism in numerous verses across both the Old and New Testaments. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what the Bible says on this subject:

1. Moderation and Warnings Against Drunkenness:

The Bible generally allows moderate alcohol consumption but strongly warns against drunkenness and excessive drinking.

• Ephesians 5:18: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”[1][3][7]

• Proverbs 20:1: “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.”[2][7]

• Isaiah 5:11: “Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.”[5][7]

• Galatians 5:19-21: Lists drunkenness among the “acts of the flesh” that will prevent people from inheriting the kingdom of God.[5]

• 1 Corinthians 6:10: States that drunkards “will not inherit the kingdom of God.”[3][7]

2. Positive References to Wine:

Some passages present wine in a positive light or as a blessing from God.

• Psalm 104:14-15: “He makes … wine that gladdens human hearts.”[3]

• Ecclesiastes 9:7: “Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do.”[8]

• John 2:1-11: Jesus turns water into wine at a wedding feast.[3]

3. Abstinence in Certain Situations:

The Bible mentions situations where abstinence from alcohol is advised or required.

• Proverbs 31:4-5: Advises kings and rulers not to drink wine or strong drink.[6]

• Luke 1:15: Describes John the Baptist, who “will drink neither wine nor strong drink.”[8]

4. Medicinal Use:

• 1 Timothy 5:23: Paul advises Timothy to “use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.”[3]

5. Responsibility and Self-Control:

• Romans 14:21: “It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.”[1]

• 1 Corinthians 6:12: “‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but I will not be mastered by anything.”[8]

6. Consequences of Excessive Drinking:

• Proverbs 23:29-35: Describes the negative effects of excessive drinking, including woe, sorrow, strife, and physical symptoms.[6]

• Isaiah 28:7: “And these also stagger from wine and reel from beer: Priests and prophets stagger from beer and are befuddled with wine; they reel from beer, they stagger when seeing visions, they stumble when rendering decisions.”[8]

In conclusion, while the Bible does not prohibit alcohol consumption outright, it consistently warns against drunkenness and excessive drinking. It encourages wisdom, self-control, and consideration for others in relation to alcohol use. The overall message emphasizes moderation, responsibility, and being mindful of alcohol’s potential negative effects on oneself and others.

Citations: [1] https://www.biblestudytools.com/topical-verses/bible-verses-about-drinking-alcohol/ [2] https://www.openbible.info/topics/drinking_alcohol [3] https://www.gotquestions.org/sin-alcohol.html [4] https://www.knowingjesusministries.co/articles/what-does-the-bible-say-about-drinking-alcohol/ [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcohol_in_the_Bible [6] https://www.choosingtherapy.com/what-does-the-bible-say-about-alcohol/ [7] https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/what-does-the-bible-say-about-alcohol-1120038.html [8] https://www.chadfisheronline.com/post/48-bible-verses-about-drinking-alcohol