Wine

The Bible presents alcohol in a nuanced way that explains why churches adopt different stances on drinking. Rather than issuing a blanket prohibition, Scripture distinguishes between wine as a divine gift and drunkenness as a serious moral failure.

Wine as a Created Good

Wine is described as something that “gladdens human hearts,” (Ps 104:14–15) and Christ used wine as a teaching tool in his miracles and parables.[1] Paul even advised Timothy to “use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses,” (1 Tim 5:23) indicating medicinal value. Wine was a regular part of the ancient diet,[1] and the use of alcohol is not normally prohibited in Scripture.[1]

The Consistent Condemnation of Drunkenness

However, Scripture unambiguously condemns intoxication. Believers are told not to “get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery.” (Eph 5:18) Drunkards will not inherit the kingdom of God, (1 Cor 6:10) and drunkenness is listed among acts of the flesh alongside sexual immorality and idolatry. (Gal 5:19–21) Those who linger over wine face consequences: “In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.” (Prov 23:29–35)

Two Legitimate Positions

The Bible does not forbid alcohol consumption, yet abstinence is not merely a personal preference—it has scriptural grounding.[2] Christians can choose total abstinence in solidarity with concerns for vulnerable people, or they can drink moderately while fighting against alcohol abuse.[2] Historically, Christians have agreed that moderation is the scriptural standard, though drunkenness has been universally condemned.[1]

Churches restricting alcohol often emphasize the devastating effects of alcoholism and alcohol-related accidents, motivating abstinence as an expression of loving one’s neighbor and treating the body as God’s temple.[2] This reflects a legitimate biblical concern, even if the Bible permits moderate consumption.

[1] Daniel G. Reid et al., in Dictionary of Christianity in America (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1990). [See here, here, here, here.]
[2] Nancy J. Duff, “Alcohol,” in Dictionary of Scripture and Ethics, ed. Joel B. Green (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2011), 53.