The Bible speaks of strong drink in several places, often warning about the dangers of overindulgence. While alcohol itself isn’t condemned, the Bible advises moderation and self-control. Let’s explore what Scripture says about the use of strong drink and the importance of temperance in our lives.
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What Does The Bible Say About Strong Drink
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”
This verse warns against the dangers of strong drink, emphasizing its ability to deceive and lead individuals astray. It highlights the importance of wisdom and discernment in avoiding the pitfalls of alcohol abuse.
Furthermore, it emphasizes the negative effects of strong drink, depicting it as a mocker and a source of rage. This verse signifies the need for individuals to exercise self-control and make wise choices in regard to consuming alcoholic beverages.
Proverbs 23:29-35
“Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his color in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things. Yea, thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the sea, or as he that lieth upon the top of a mast. They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.”
This passage highlights the destructive consequences of excessive alcohol consumption. It describes the woes, sorrows, contentions, and babbling that come from indulging in strong drink. The metaphor of being bitten by a serpent and stung by an adder illustrates the harmful effects of alcohol.
The passage also warns against the impaired judgment and moral decay that can result from excessive drinking, such as engaging in illicit behavior and speaking perversely. It concludes with a depiction of addiction, as the individual desires to continue seeking alcohol despite the negative consequences they have experienced.
Proverbs 31:4-7
“It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted. Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.”
This passage advises against the consumption of strong drink by kings and princes, emphasizing the detrimental effects it can have on their ability to uphold justice and make sound judgments. It highlights the importance of leaders maintaining clear minds and moral integrity.
However, the passage acknowledges that there may be a place for strong drink in specific circumstances, such as giving it to those who are in dire situations or experiencing heavy hearts. It suggests the temporary relief it may provide in such cases, allowing individuals to momentarily forget their hardships.
Isaiah 5:11
“Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!”
This verse pronounces a woe upon those who prioritize consuming strong drink above all else, even from early morning until night. It reveals the folly and destructive nature of excessive drinking, which leads individuals to become inflamed and intoxicated.
By admonishing those who engage in such behavior, this verse emphasizes the importance of moderation, self-control, and prioritizing righteous living over indulging in the pleasures of strong drink.
Isaiah 28:7
“But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.”
In this verse, the detrimental effects of strong drink are evident, even among the religious leaders of the time. It highlights how indulging in alcohol can lead to spiritual and moral errors, causing the priests and prophets to stumble in judgment and err in their spiritual visions.
This verse serves as a cautionary reminder that even those who are entrusted with spiritual leadership can be led astray and hindered from fulfilling their sacred duties if they succumb to the intoxicating allure of strong drink.
Habakkuk 2:15
“Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!”
This verse warns against the harmful practice of enticing others to drink excessively. It condemns the act of purposefully making one’s neighbor drunk, particularly for selfish or voyeuristic purposes.
The verse underscores the importance of treating others with respect, refraining from any actions that could cause harm, and avoiding the temptation to exploit others for personal gain or amusement.
Romans 14:21
“It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.”
This verse highlights the need for Christians to exercise personal restraint and consider the impact of their actions on others. It encourages individuals to abstain from certain behaviors, such as drinking wine, if it could cause a fellow believer to stumble, be offended, or be weakened in their faith.
This verse emphasizes the importance of love, sensitivity, and selflessness in our interactions with others, urging Christians to prioritize the well-being of their brothers and sisters in Christ over their personal preferences or freedoms.
1 Corinthians 6:10
“Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”
This verse categorizes drunkards among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God. It serves as a solemn reminder of the grave consequences of habitual alcohol abuse and the need for individuals to strive for righteousness and transformation through the power of Christ.
By including drunkards in this list, the verse underscores the biblical perspective on the seriousness of alcohol addiction and the importance of seeking deliverance, healing, and a renewed life in Christ.
Galatians 5:21
“Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Similar to the previous verse, this passage identifies drunkenness as one of the behaviors that will prevent individuals from inheriting the kingdom of God. It places alcohol abuse in the context of other sinful acts, emphasizing its destructive nature and the need for repentance and transformation.
By warning against such behaviors, this verse encourages believers to pursue a life characterized by the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—rather than indulging in the destructive excesses of the flesh.
Ephesians 5:18
“And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;”
This verse exhorts believers to avoid getting drunk with wine, emphasizing the excesses and negative consequences that accompany such behavior. Instead, it encourages them to be filled with the Holy Spirit, which brings about a life characterized by spiritual fruitfulness, wisdom, and guidance.
By positioning the filling of the Holy Spirit as an alternative to drunkenness, this verse highlights the transformation that occurs when individuals surrender to the leading and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, choosing to live in alignment with God’s will.
1 Timothy 3:2-3
“A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;”
Speaking specifically of the qualifications for a bishop, this verse emphasizes the importance of leaders being sober and not given to wine. It underscores the need for leaders to exhibit self-control, humility, and good character, rather than being driven by excessive indulgence or unhealthy desires.
By setting these standards for leaders, this verse highlights the importance of leaders being role models and examples of godliness for the community of believers they serve.
Titus 1:7
“For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;”
This verse reiterates the qualifications for a bishop, once again emphasizing the need for leaders to abstain from wine and not be given to excessive drinking. It underscores the importance of leaders demonstrating self-control, a gentle spirit, and a commitment to serving God and others above personal indulgences.
By emphasizing these qualities, this verse underscores the biblical expectation that leaders should be examples of godliness and servant-heartedness.
Titus 2:3
“The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;”
This verse addresses the expectations for older women in the church, emphasizing the importance of their behavior reflecting holiness and truthfulness. It specifically admonishes against being given to much wine, highlighting the need for older women to prioritize self-control and temperance.
Furthermore, this verse encourages older women to be active teachers of good things, signifying the vital role they play in mentoring and guiding younger generations in the ways of godliness and righteousness.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”
This verse calls believers to be sober and vigilant, recognizing the spiritual battles they face. It highlights the need for alertness and mental clarity, as the devil seeks to deceive, tempt, and ultimately destroy the faith of God’s people.
By encouraging sobriety and vigilance, this verse stresses the importance of maintaining a clear mind and being watchful against the schemes of the enemy, enabling believers to resist and stand firm in their faith.
1 Peter 4:3-4
“For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:”
This passage acknowledges the sinful behaviors that characterized the lives of believers before coming to Christ, including the excesses of wine and indulging in revelries and drunken parties. It contrasts this with the transformed lives of believers who no longer participate in such behavior.
The passage recognizes that those who have chosen to follow Christ may face criticism and ridicule from those still immersed in worldly excesses. Yet, it encourages believers to remain steadfast in their new way of life, aware that their commitment to sobriety and virtue may be viewed as peculiar by those who do not understand the power of the Gospel.
Proverbs 23:20-21
“Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.”
This verse advises against associating with those who excessively indulge in wine and feasting. It highlights the negative consequences that await the drunkard and the glutton, such as falling into poverty and experiencing the loss of material possessions.
Furthermore, this verse warns of the dangers of drowsiness, which can lead to spiritual and physical poverty. It emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, moderation, and a balanced lifestyle in order to avoid the pitfalls of excessive drinking and indulgence.
Proverbs 31:6-7
“Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.”
This verse acknowledges that strong drink may have a temporary benefit for those who are ready to perish or experiencing severe distress. It suggests that it can provide a momentary escape from the harsh realities of poverty and misery.
However, it is important to note that this verse does not promote the misuse of alcohol as a long-term solution or escape from problems. Rather, it recognizes that in certain extreme circumstances, the immediate alleviation of suffering may be found in the temporary effects of strong drink.
Luke 21:34
“And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.”
In this verse, Jesus warns His disciples to guard themselves against excesses, such as surfeiting (excessive indulgence) and drunkenness. He emphasizes the need for them to remain vigilant and focused, rather than being weighed down by the cares and distractions of worldly pursuits.
By cautioning against the dangers of intemperance and distraction, this verse encourages believers to cultivate a balance between their earthly responsibilities and their spiritual readiness for the return of the Lord.
Proverbs 23:29-30
“Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.”
This passage highlights the negative consequences of excessive indulgence in wine. It portrays the woes, sorrows, contentions, and babbling that come from lingering at wine and seeking mixed wine.
By illustrating the detrimental effects of excessive drinking, this verse serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers and pitfalls of alcohol abuse. It underscores the importance of moderation, self-control, and making wise choices in regard to alcohol consumption.
Isaiah 56:12
“Come ye, say they, I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and to morrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant.”
This verse describes the mindset of those who eagerly seek to indulge in wine and strong drink. It highlights their desire for self-gratification and their intention to continue their excessive behavior without considering the potential consequences.
By portraying this mindset, the verse serves as a cautionary reminder of the allure and deception that can accompany the pursuit of excessive drinking. It points to the importance of considering the long-term effects and exercising self-control rather than being consumed by the momentary pleasures of intoxication.
Proverbs 23:32
“At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.”
This verse uses vivid imagery to depict the ultimate consequences of excessive drinking. It compares the effects of strong drink to being bitten by a serpent and stung by an adder, highlighting the harmful and potentially dangerous outcomes.
By employing this portrayal, the verse emphasizes the need for caution, self-control, and wise decision-making regarding alcohol consumption. It serves as a powerful reminder of the potential physical, emotional, and spiritual dangers that can accompany the abuse of strong drink.
1 Peter 4:5-7
“Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead. For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”
These verses remind believers of the imminent return of Christ and the accountability they will face. It highlights the need to live according to God’s will and purpose, rather than being consumed by worldly excesses.
The verse urges sobriety and a watchful attitude as we engage in prayer, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually alert and ready for the Lord’s coming. It serves as an exhortation to prioritize a clear and focused mind, consecrated to God’s purposes, rather than being entangled in behaviors that hinder our spiritual growth.