Alcohol

<<intoxicating liquor>>

Although there are no specific statements in the Bible warning against consumption of intoxicating beverages which impair human judgement, there are definite principles that demonstrate the need to abstain (Prov 20:1, 23:31,32, 31:4,5). Believers have an obligation to live in such a way that their example and influence on others will not cause them to stumble (Rom 14:7,13; 1 Cor 8:9-11). We should not trifle with that which could bring us under its power and do things inconsistent with our witness in Christ. God commands Christians to avoid drunkenness and not allow their bodies to be mastered by anything (1 Cor 6:12; Eph 5:18; 2 Pet 2:19). The guideline for our standard of behaviour is, "Live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ" (Phil 1:27).

Alcohol wreaks havoc in our society, homes and on the roads, so abstinence is the best course for a Christian to follow. Many people are able to drink sensibly, however many are addicted and drink rules their lives, bringing heartache, abuse and financial hardship to their families. Drunken people are not in control of their faculties and often do irresponsible things that they later regret. There are far more

Am I acting responsibly in this issue?

passages of Scripture warning of the evils of drinking than supporting a position of moderation. As Christians, we are to do all to the glory of God (1 Cor 10:31).

In NT times, wine was consumed regularly as it would be less contaminated by bacteria and viruses than some of the drinking water available.