Alcohol is everywhere in our culture today, especially here in Scotland. Many of us have known its grip firsthand.

I’ve talked with so many people over the years who started with what seemed like an innocent escape, only to find themselves in bondage.

The good news is that Jesus Christ sets people free.

I recently came across a strong message called “The Dangers of Alcohol” by missionary Chris Killen. It stirred my heart again to share what the Scriptures teach us on this subject.

What Does the Bible Say About Alcohol?

The Bible does not say that touching any alcohol at all is a sin. But it gives very clear and serious warnings against drunkenness.

Listen to what Paul writes in Ephesians 5:18: “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.”

You see, folks, God wants us filled with the Holy Spirit, not under the influence of wine. The joy and peace the Spirit gives are far better and more lasting.

The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom on this as it says in Proverbs 20:1 tells us, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” And Proverbs 23 paints a sobering picture of the sorrow and trouble that come from lingering long at the wine.

In Galatians 5, drunkenness is listed among the works of the flesh. Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Yet just look right after that we read those wonderful words, “And such were some of you…” You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Now, there is one verse that is often brought up, 1 Timothy 5:23: “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.” This was specific counsel from Paul to Timothy for a health issue.

In Bible times the wine was much weaker and usually diluted. It does not open the door to social drinking in our day of strong drink.

The Lord’s Supper and Our Conscience

When we come to the Lord’s Table, we remember the body and blood of our Lord Jesus. Some churches use wine, sometimes mixed with juice. Others use grape juice. The important thing is not the alcohol content but the heart of worship and remembrance.

The “fruit of the vine” can be unfermented. If wine would cause a brother or sister to stumble, especially those with a past in addiction, we should be willing to use grape juice.

Our liberty must always be governed by love and a tender conscience before the Lord (Romans 14:23).

A Personal Word to Those Who Struggle

If you have battled alcohol in your past, hear from my experiance. For many of us who have been delivered from its power, the wisest path is total abstinence.

It is not legalism. It is walking in wisdom and love so we do not give the enemy any foothold.

Don’t let the devil beat you up over your past. The moment you came to Jesus, “old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

The blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin. Walk in that freedom!

Practical Encouragement

Stay in the Word of God every day. Use good tools like Blue Letter Bible to study the Scriptures for yourself. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you afresh instead of looking anywhere else for comfort.

Surround yourself with believers who will encourage you in a holy walk with the Lord.

And if you are still struggling, reach out for help. Jesus is in the business of setting captives free.

Closing

There is abundant life in Jesus Christ. He said, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). You will not find that abundant life at the bottom of a bottle. You find it in a surrendered walk with Him, filled with His Spirit.

I encourage you to watch the message “The Dangers of Alcohol” and, more importantly, open your Bible and let the Lord speak to your heart.

Let us glorify God in our bodies and walk soberly as we await the soon return of our Lord.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

May the Lord bless you and keep you in His grace.

Keep Bible Strong

Peter