Alcohol is a controversial topic, and it has been for centuries. The Bible has a few things to say about drinking alcohol and its effects on individuals, communities, and the world. Let us explore the Bible verses related to drinking alcohol and the impact that these passages have on our understanding of this widely debated topic. Looking closely at Scripture can provide insight into why some people choose to abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages and why others don’t find it to be an issue.
Alcohol in the Bible?
Alcohol is one of the oldest known substances that humans have used in various forms throughout history. In the Bible, alcohol plays a large role with both positive and negative impacts on characters. It is depicted as something that can be used for pleasure, strength, and courage, but also as something to be consumed responsibly and not abused.
The Bible mentions alcohol more than 70 times in its text, referencing wine in particular. For example, wine is said to cheer the hearts of men (Psalm 104:15) and bring joy to the soul (Psalm 104:15). The bible also speaks positively about those who practice temperance and moderation when it comes to consuming alcohol (1 Timothy 3:8). Additionally, Jesus’ first miracle was turning water into wine at a wedding feast (John 2:1-11).
Want a more in-depth look at Christians’ drinking? Check out Can Christians Drink? A Christian Guide to Alcohol
Top 14 Bible Verses about Drinking Alcohol
Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise. Proverbs 20:1
And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, Ephesians 5:18
(No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.) 1 Timothy 5:23
Envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:21
It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble. Romans 14:21
Nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Corinthians 6:10
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8
Woe to those who rise early in the morning, that they may run after strong drink, who tarry late into the evening as wine inflames them! Isaiah 5:11
Woe to those who are heroes at drinking wine, and valiant men in mixing strong drink, Isaiah 5:22
Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21
Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do. Ecclesiastes 9:7
Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 1 Timothy 3:8
Be not among drunkards or among gluttonous eaters of meat, for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags. Proverbs 23:20-21
Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy. Romans 13:13
Bible Verses about Drinking – Conclusion
It is clear from the Bible that drinking alcohol in moderation is permissible. As long as it does not lead to drunkenness or harm, it can be enjoyed and appreciated by believers. However, there are many verses that warn against uncontrolled drinking of alcohol. Take these verses seriously, and make sure that drinking alcohol does not become a sin in our lives.