Is drinking alcohol a sin?

The Bible does not prohibit the consumption of alcohol, but it does warn against drunkenness and the potential dangers associated with alcohol abuse.

1. Drinking alcohol in moderation, without leading to drunkenness, is not considered sinful.
   • Verse: “When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom. And he said to him, “Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!” (John 2:9-10 NKJV)
   • Explanation: We must understand that the Greek word for “wine” can mean any product from the grape, from newly produced grape juice to alcoholic wine. Jesus turned water into wine at the wedding in Cana – and not just wine, but “good wine.” Some have suggested that this was “new wine,” grape juice from freshly pressed grapes, but there is no way to tell from the word used or the context of the story.
2. Wine was used in the Lord’s Supper.
   • Verse: “In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.’” (1 Corinthians 11:25)
   • Explanation: While nothing is said of what is in the cup in this verse or the similar verses in the Gospels, it is almost universally assumed that the cup held wine. It was a single cup from which each of the apostles took a drink.
3. Wine was used as a medicine.
   • Verse: “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.” (1 Timothy 5:23 NKJV)
   • Explanation: Paul recommended that Timothy use a little wine for medicinal purposes. The water in ancient times was often impure and could cause illness, so adding a bit of wine to the water might have helped to purify it or make it easier on the digestive system. Wine was also used to aid digestion and treat various ailments, including stomach issues and other health problems. However, Paul’s advice to "use a little wine" suggests moderation, implying that wine should be consumed in small quantities for its health benefits rather than for recreational purposes.
4. The Bible condemns drunkenness because it leads to poor judgment, disgrace, and sinful activity.
   • Verse: “Wine is a mocker, Strong drink is a brawler, And whoever is led astray by it is not wise.” (Proverbs 20:1)
   • Explanation: The stories of Noah (Genesis 9:20-21) and Lot (Genesis 19:30-38) show how drunkenness can lead to shameful activities.
5. The Bible condemns drunkenness as carnal.
   • Verse: “And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18)
   • Explanation: Paul contrasts being filled with the Spirit (led and empowered by Him) with being led by alcohol. “Dissipation” is reckless behavior that demonstrates a lack of thought or concern for the consequences of an action. The word is used of the prodigal son who lived recklessly until he ran out of money (Luke 15:13).
6. The Bible condemns drinking alcohol when it creates a negative influence on others.
   • Verse: "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." (Romans 14:21)
   • Explanation: While drinking alcohol is not inherently sinful, believers should consider the impact of their actions on their own spiritual well-being and on those around them, especially those who are newly saved or struggling in their Christian life.
7. The Bible condemns any action that is focused on personal enjoyment rather than the glory of God.
   • Verse: “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
   • Explanation: Glorifying God involves embodying His attributes, such as love, justice, mercy, and holiness. Christians are expected to behave in a way that reflects God's nature in every circumstance. It refers to leading a life driven by something other than self or material achievement. If drinking is a means to get a “buzz,” to feel better, or to fit into a group of friends or a social setting, then we are putting self before God. The desire to honor God and represent His ideals should be the driving force behind every action, choice, and statement. This encompasses routine tasks, including eating, working, and socializing. To do everything for the glory of God entails putting His will ahead of our own. It necessitates seeking God's direction and focusing our behavior toward His goals, even when doing so is difficult or countercultural.

The Bible strongly condemns drunkenness, associating it with a lack of self-control, moral decay, and spiritual danger. Although moderate consumption of alcohol is not forbidden, believers are called to practice self-control, avoid excess, and be mindful of their influence on others. In the New Testament, believers had little choice of beverage. Today, we have multiple options, much of which brings none of the dangers of alcohol.