Paul disqualified a drunkard from serving as an elder. The elder must “not be given to much wine” (author’s translation). Even in light of Paul’s other comments regarding the abuse of wine, one cannot be dogmatic that he requires total abstinence in the elder.24 However, considering the addictive qualities of alcohol, any Christian (whether an elder or not) should seriously consider Paul’s statements concerning the responsibilities of the “strong” to the “weak.”25 Remaining blameless in any situation that gives offense should be the governing rule with regard to any questionable practices allowed by Scripture yet not encouraged by Scripture.
Thomas D. Lea and Hayne P. Griffin, 1, 2 Timothy, Titus, vol. 34, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1992), 283–284.
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