“Barred”

Wednesday, May 01, 2013

     So, I was talking to a co-worker about what she did over the weekend, and she proceeded to tell me it was great because her daughter was home from college; they went to church, and then went shopping, and then went and had a drink together at a new martini bar.  I asked her what church she went to, and she told me the church of Christ, and that sometimes after church, her preacher would have a beer with them?  I'm a little confused on what the Bible says about drinking and wine.  I know it says not to become a drunkard, but does it also say Jesus drank wine?  I've also heard that the wine referred to in the Bible is today's version of grape juice… that seems like a rather confusing translation to me. In addition, I've heard the argument that isn't it better to relax with a glass of wine instead of taking anti-anxiety meds all the time?  I am looking for a Biblical and unopinionated answer; which I see you are consistent with the truth: bible chapter and verse.  Thanks!

Sincerely,
Buzzing With Confusion

Dear Buzzing With Confusion,

God never specifically condemns all alcohol, but He does condemn ‘strong drink’ (Pr 20:1), drinking parties (1 Pet 4:3), and drunkenness (Rom 13:13).  Almost all alcohol that is consumed today would fall into the category of ‘strong drink’ because our alcoholic beverages are artificially fermented to increase their alcoholic content (unlike the wine of Jesus’ day – read “That’s Just Grape” for further details on the wine Jesus drank).  1 Pet 4:3’s reference to drinking parties would be a great example of why to never attend a martini bar or any other drinking establishment (saloons, pubs, etc.).  Furthermore, the Bible teaches that elders, deacons, and all that are mature in Christ need to be the kind of people that aren’t associated with regular alcohol consumption (1 Tim 3:8, Tit 2:3).  Nevermind the influence and appearance of drinking in today’s culture of excess and drunkenness. We would all do well to heed the words of Pr 23:31-32 and avoid alcohol as much as is possible.

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