Alcohol?

Q: What is the Churches teaching on moderate drinking of alcohol. I am not talking about being drunk.

A: Moderation is an appropriate response to what the Bible teaches about drinking. Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding (John 2:1-11). Wine is clearly consumed in moderation by Jesus and his disciples (Matthew 11:19; Luke 7:34; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-23). Paul encouraged Timothy to take a little wine for his stomach (1Tim 5:23). Of course, there are also clear admonitions against excessive drinking, or drunkenness (Luke 21:34; 1Cor 5:11; 6:10; Gal 5:21; Eph 5:18; 1Tim 3:3; Titus 1:7; 1Pet 4:3). As pastors, we have seen many lives devastated by alcohol abuse, so we are cautious in this regard – neither approving nor disapproving – but rather cautioning the congregation and reminding them of the wisdom of considering the weaker brother in all of their behaviors – while we may have liberty in Christ, that does not mean that we ought to exercise every permission (1Cor 10:23-25).

“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.” (1Cor 10:23-24)