Everything in Moderation: A Biblical Perspective on Alcohol

Based on Scott Mitchell's Bible Study What the Bible Really Says About Alcohol: A Biblical Perspective on Wine, Strong Drink, and Moderation

Wine in its rightful place: a symbol of God’s blessing, to be enjoyed with wisdom and moderation

When it comes to alcohol, many believers seek clarity. Is drinking wine or strong drink sinful? Or is it the abuse of these that leads to sin? The Bible provides guidance that helps us understand how to approach this topic with wisdom and care. Let’s examine what Scripture reveals about alcohol, moderation, and the responsibility we bear as followers of Christ.

Wine and Strong Drink in Scripture: Use and Symbolism

The Bible speaks of wine and strong drink in various contexts, both as blessings and as potential stumbling blocks. We see early in Genesis that wine can lead to trouble when misused. Genesis 9:20-21 records Noah’s drunkenness after the flood, an event that brought shame and regret. Yet, in Genesis 14:18-20, Melchizedek, priest of the most high God, brings forth bread and wine to bless Abram, a foreshadowing of the Lord’s Supper.

Strong drink, distinct from wine, appears in Scripture with specific prohibitions. In Leviticus 10:8-11, the Lord commands priests not to drink wine or strong drink when they go into the tabernacle, highlighting the seriousness of their service. Similarly, Numbers 6:1-4 describes the Nazarite vow, a period of consecration to the Lord during which wine and strong drink are set aside.

Wine is often portrayed as part of God’s blessings. Genesis 27:28-29 describes Isaac’s blessing upon Jacob, asking for “plenty of corn and wine.” Deuteronomy 7:12-14 links wine and other provisions to God’s covenant blessings upon Israel.

Clearly, wine itself is not condemned; rather, it is recognized as part of the abundance God gives.

The Call to Moderation and Edification

Scripture consistently urges believers to exercise moderation. Paul teaches in Philippians 4:5, “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” Moderation means not being controlled by anything—including substances like wine. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul reminds us, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient.” The danger is not in the lawful use, but in allowing ourselves to be mastered by anything.

Our liberty must be guided by love. Romans 14:19-21 teaches us to “follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.” If a personal choice about food or drink causes a brother to stumble, charity calls us to reconsider. The principle is not to judge others, but to consider how our actions affect the faith and conscience of those around us.

Wine as a Blessing and Its Responsible Use

Wine is not merely a beverage in biblical times; it represents joy, prosperity, and God’s favor. Ecclesiastes 9:7 encourages, “Drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.” Judges 9:13 speaks of wine as that “which cheereth God and man.” Even Jesus spoke of wine’s future role in His kingdom, saying in Mark 14:25 that He would not drink of the fruit of the vine again until He drank it new in God’s kingdom.

However, the Bible also warns of the sorrow that comes from excess. Proverbs 31:4-7 counsels kings to avoid strong drink lest they forget the law and pervert judgment. Wine, like many of God’s gifts, is to be received with thankfulness and handled with care.

Conclusion: Let Love and Discernment Guide You

The Bible does not forbid the consumption of wine or strong drink. It cautions against abuse, urges moderation, and calls believers to walk in charity. Whether you choose to partake or abstain, let your decision stem from personal conviction and a desire to glorify God and edify others. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:23-24, “All things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.”

Let moderation and love be the measure of your freedom.

Click to watch the Bible Lesson What the Bible Really Says About Alcohol: A Biblical Perspective on Wine, Strong Drink, and Moderation