Wine appears in both celebrations and warnings in Scripture. Today, we’ll explore what the Bible says about drinking wine and how to approach it wisely.
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What Does The Bible Say About Drinking Wine
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.”
This verse warns against the dangers of alcohol and the negative consequences it can have on one’s judgment and behavior. It emphasizes the importance of making wise choices and avoiding the temptation of excessive drinking.
Alcohol has the potential to deceive and lead people astray from God’s path. It is a reminder to exercise self-control and moderation when it comes to alcohol consumption.
1 Timothy 3:8
“Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money…”
This verse highlights the qualities that deacons, or church leaders, should possess. Among these qualities is the admonition to not be given to much wine, indicating that they should not be excessive or addicted to alcohol.
By being moderate in their drinking habits, deacons can serve as examples of self-discipline and godliness for the congregation.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Do not mix with winebibbers, or with gluttonous eaters of meat; for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness will clothe a man with rags.”
This verse advises against associating with those who indulge in excessive drinking. It warns that those who are drunkards and gluttons will suffer negative consequences, such as poverty and a lack of productivity.
It is a reminder to be mindful of our company and to avoid participating in behaviors that can lead to ruin and unproductive lives.
Proverbs 31:4-5
“It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes intoxicating drink; lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the justice of all the afflicted.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of leaders, specifically kings and princes, avoiding the consumption of alcohol. It highlights the negative effects that drinking can have on their ability to administer justice and make wise decisions.
Leaders are called to uphold justice and protect the rights of the oppressed, and excessive drinking can impair their judgment and hinder their ability to fulfill this responsibility.
Proverbs 31:6-7
“Give strong drink to him who is perishing, and wine to those who are bitter of heart. Let him drink and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.”
This verse acknowledges that there may be situations where alcohol is given to those who are suffering or in great distress. It suggests that in some instances, the temporary relief provided by alcohol can help alleviate their burdens and sorrows.
However, it is important to note that this verse does not condone excessive or habitual drinking, but rather offers a compassionate response in specific circumstances.
Ephesians 5:18
“And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit…”
This verse cautions against the detrimental effects of drunkenness and encourages believers to be filled with the Spirit instead. It emphasizes the need for spiritual discernment and self-control, urging believers to prioritize the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Instead of seeking temporary pleasures or escape through alcohol, Christians are called to find fulfillment and joy in their relationship with God.
Romans 14:21
“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 verse highlights the importance of considering the impact of our actions on others, particularly regarding their convictions and weaknesses. It emphasizes the need for Christians to prioritize love and unity within the body of Christ.
While the consumption of wine may not be inherently sinful, if it causes a fellow believer to stumble or be led astray, it is better to abstain for the sake of their spiritual well-being.
Isaiah 5:11
“Woe to those who rise early in the morning, that they may follow intoxicating drink; who continue until night, till wine inflames them!”
This verse pronounces a warning against those who habitually indulge in excessive drinking from morning until night. It highlights the destructive nature of such behavior, which can lead to dependence, poor decision-making, and a neglect of responsibilities.
It serves as a reminder to be mindful of our habits and to prioritize a balanced and purposeful life that does not revolve around worldly indulgences.
Galatians 5:21
“…envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
This verse includes drunkenness as one of the sinful behaviors that can prevent individuals from inheriting the kingdom of God. It acts as a strong admonition against indulging in excessive drinking and engaging in worldly revelries.
It underscores the importance of living a transformed life in Christ, characterized by fruit of the Spirit rather than the works of the flesh.
Proverbs 21:17
“He who loves pleasure will be a poor man; he who loves wine and oil will not be rich.”
This verse warns against an excessive love for pleasure, including the love of wine. It highlights that prioritizing worldly pleasures over prudence and diligence can lead to poverty and material lack.
It encourages us to seek true riches in God rather than finding temporary satisfaction in fleeting indulgences.
Isaiah 28:7
“But they also have erred through wine, and through intoxicating drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through intoxicating drink, they are swallowed up by wine, they are out of the way through intoxicating drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.”
This verse highlights the dangers of alcohol misuse, even among spiritual leaders. It reveals that intoxication can lead to spiritual blindness, poor judgment, and a deviation from the truth.
It serves as a reminder that leaders should be vigilant in their sobriety and lead by example, abstaining from excessive drinking that can hinder their ability to guide others effectively.
1 Peter 4:3-4
“For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries. In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you.”
This verse reminds believers of their transformation in Christ and the need to separate themselves from worldly lifestyles characterized by excessive drinking and immoral behavior.
It acknowledges that this separation may cause others to view Christians as peculiar or criticize them, but it emphasizes the importance of maintaining a godly testimony even in the face of opposition.
Proverbs 31:6
“Give strong drink to him who is perishing, and wine to those who are bitter of heart.”
This verse suggests that alcohol can be used medicinally to relieve distress and provide temporary comfort to those who are facing difficult circumstances, such as those who are perishing or suffering from a broken heart.
However, it is important to remember that this verse is not condoning alcohol as a solution to life’s problems, but rather acknowledging its potential impact in specific situations.
1 Timothy 5:23
“No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.”
In this verse, Paul advises Timothy to use a small amount of wine for medicinal purposes. It serves as a reminder that alcohol, when used cautiously and in moderation, can have potential health benefits.
However, it is essential to be mindful of the context and to understand that this is not a general endorsement of alcohol consumption, but rather specific advice for an individual’s need at that time.
Proverbs 23:29-35
“Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who linger long at the wine, those who go in search of mixed wine. Do not look on the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it swirls around smoothly; at the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like a viper. Your eyes will see strange things, and your heart will utter perverse things. Yes, you will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, or like one who lies at the top of the mast, saying: ‘They have struck me, but I was not hurt; they have beaten me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake, that I may seek another drink?'”
This passage serves as a vivid depiction of the destructive consequences of excessive drinking. It portrays the pain, sorrow, and foolishness that accompany those who indulge in alcohol to an extreme extent.
It is a cautionary warning against the allure of intoxication and the potential physical, emotional, and spiritual harm that can result.
Proverbs 31:7
“Let him drink and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.”
Similar to the previous verse, this passage acknowledges the temporary relief that alcohol can provide in difficult circumstances. It recognizes that in some instances, the numbing effects of alcohol can help individuals momentarily forget their troubles.
However, it is crucial to approach this verse with discernment, understanding that it is not an encouragement for habitual or excessive drinking, but rather a recognition of the potential temporary escape alcohol can offer.
Luke 7:33-34
“For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’”
This verse contrasts the different approaches of John the Baptist and Jesus regarding food and drink. John’s disciplined asceticism was viewed by some as evidence of demonic influence, while Jesus’ choice to eat and drink normally led to accusations of being a glutton and a winebibber.
It highlights the tendency of people to make judgment based on external practices rather than recognizing the heart and purpose behind an individual’s actions.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10
“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.”
This passage lists drunkenness as one of the behaviors that are incompatible with inheriting the kingdom of God. It includes excessive drinking among the vices that are contrary to a transformed life in Christ.
It serves as a reminder of the need for repentance and spiritual transformation, turning away from sinful behaviors, including drunkenness, and embracing a life that is pleasing to God.
Matthew 11:19
“The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ But wisdom is justified by her children.”
Similar to the earlier verse in Luke 7, this passage highlights the public perception of Jesus as someone who enjoyed eating and drinking. His association with tax collectors and sinners led to accusations and misjudgments by some.
However, the latter part of the verse suggests that the true wisdom and righteousness of Jesus can be seen in the fruit He produces in the lives of those who follow Him.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.”
This well-known verse reminds us that one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit is self-control. It highlights that believers possess the power to exercise self-discipline when it comes to various areas of their lives, including their consumption of alcohol.
It encourages believers to rely on the Holy Spirit and cultivate a life marked by self-control, which includes moderation in all things, including the use of alcohol.
Proverbs 31:8-9
“Open your mouth for the speechless, in the cause of all who are appointed to die. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.”
This verse urges individuals to use their influence and voice to advocate for justice, particularly on behalf of the vulnerable and marginalized. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing justice, compassion, and righteousness in our interactions with others.
It reminds us that our actions, including our choices regarding alcohol, should align with the values and principles of God’s kingdom.
1 Corinthians 10:31
“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
This verse serves as a reminder that as Christians, our primary focus should be the glorification of God in every aspect of our lives, including our choices regarding food and drink.
It encourages us to approach the consumption of alcohol, and everything else, with the intention of honoring and pleasing God, keeping our actions in alignment with His will.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore, glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
This verse reminds believers that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, dwelling places of God Himself. It emphasizes the sacredness of our bodies and the responsibility we have to honor and care for them.
It calls us to glorify God not only in our spirits but also in our physical bodies, which includes making wise and responsible choices about what we consume, including alcohol.
Isaiah 55:1
“Ho! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat. Yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.”
This verse employs poetic language to convey an invitation from God to those who are spiritually thirsty and in need. It extends an offer of nourishment and satisfaction, symbolized by the imagery of buying wine and milk without cost.
It is a reminder that true satisfaction and fulfillment are found in God alone, not in the temporary pleasures that alcohol can provide.