Drinking Alcohol Is Not A Sin, But Drunkenness Is

The topic of alcohol consumption often stirs debate among Christians, with opinions ranging from total abstinence to moderate enjoyment. The Bible, as the ultimate authority for Christian living, provides guidance on this matter, but interpretations vary widely. Using the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, this blog explores the scriptural perspective that drinking alcohol is not inherently sinful, while drunkenness is consistently condemned. By examining key passages, we aim to present a balanced, biblically grounded view that respects the nuances of God’s Word.

Alcohol In Biblical Context

The Bible does not shy away from mentioning alcohol. Wine, in particular, is referenced frequently in both the Old and New Testaments, often in neutral or even positive contexts. For example, Psalm 104:14–15 (KJV) states, “He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man's heart.” Here, wine is portrayed as a gift from God, intended to bring joy and gladness. This passage suggests that alcohol, when used appropriately, is part of God’s provision for human enjoyment.

Similarly, in the New Testament, Jesus Himself participated in the use of wine. At the wedding in Cana, as recorded in John 2:1–11, Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine. John 2:9–10 (KJV) notes, “When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was… the governor of the feast called the bridegroom, And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.” The fact that Jesus created wine of high quality for a celebration indicates that alcohol itself is not inherently sinful. If it were, Jesus, being sinless, would not have facilitated its consumption.

The Line Between Use And Abuse

While Scripture affirms that alcohol can be a blessing, it draws a clear line against excess. Drunkenness is consistently condemned as a sin that leads to spiritual and moral harm. Ephesians 5:18 (KJV) commands, “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” This verse explicitly contrasts drunkenness with being filled with the Holy Spirit, suggesting that intoxication impairs one’s ability to live in alignment with God’s will. The phrase “wherein is excess” points to the loss of self-control that accompanies drunkenness, which is incompatible with a life led by the Spirit.

Proverbs 20:1 (KJV) further warns, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” This verse highlights the deceptive nature of alcohol when it leads to drunkenness. The imagery of wine as a “mocker” and strong drink as “raging” underscores the chaos and folly that result from overindulgence. Similarly, Proverbs 23:29–35 (KJV) paints a vivid picture of the consequences of drunkenness: “Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine… At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.” This passage describes the physical, emotional, and spiritual toll of excessive drinking, likening it to a venomous snakebite.

The Call To Moderation

The Bible’s condemnation of drunkenness does not equate to a prohibition of alcohol altogether. Instead, Scripture emphasizes moderation and self-control, which are fruits of a Spirit-led life. Galatians 5:22–23 (KJV) lists the fruit of the Spirit, including “temperance” (self-control), which applies to all areas of life, including the consumption of alcohol. Christians are called to exercise wisdom and restraint, ensuring that their actions glorify God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (KJV) instructs, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” This principle applies directly to alcohol: drinking in moderation, with gratitude and mindfulness, can be consistent with a godly life, but excess that leads to drunkenness dishonors God.

The Old Testament also provides examples of moderate alcohol use in sacred contexts. For instance, wine was part of the drink offerings in the Mosaic Law (Numbers 15:5–10, KJV), and priests were permitted to drink wine when not serving in the tabernacle (Leviticus 10:9, KJV). These passages indicate that alcohol was integrated into Israel’s worship and culture, provided it was used responsibly.

New Testament Examples And Warnings

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul provides practical guidance on alcohol consumption. In 1 Timothy 5:23 (KJV), he advises Timothy, “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.” Here, Paul acknowledges the medicinal value of wine, encouraging its moderate use for health purposes. This instruction undermines the idea that all alcohol consumption is sinful, as Paul would not recommend something inherently wrong.

However, the New Testament also reinforces warnings against drunkenness. In 1 Corinthians 6:9–10 (KJV), Paul lists drunkards among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God: “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers… nor drunkards… shall inherit the kingdom of God.” This sobering warning places drunkenness alongside other serious sins, emphasizing its spiritual consequences.

Cultural And Personal Considerations

While the Bible permits moderate alcohol consumption, it also calls Christians to consider their context and influence on others. Romans 14:21 (KJV) advises, “It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.” If drinking alcohol causes a fellow believer to stumble in their faith, a Christian should prioritize love and abstain for the sake of their brother or sister. This principle reflects the heart of Christian liberty: freedom to partake in moderation, tempered by love and responsibility toward others.

Cultural context also matters. In biblical times, wine was a common beverage, often safer than water due to fermentation’s purifying effects. Today, Christians must navigate diverse cultural attitudes toward alcohol, from abstinence in some communities to widespread recreational use in others. Wisdom, prayer, and discernment are essential in applying biblical principles to modern contexts.

Practical Application For Today’s Christian

For Christians seeking to align their lives with Scripture, the distinction between drinking and drunkenness is critical. Here are some practical takeaways based on the KJV:

1. Enjoy God’s Gifts With Gratitude: Alcohol, like other provisions, can be received with thanksgiving as a gift from God (1 Timothy 4:4–5, KJV: “For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer”). Moderate enjoyment of wine or other beverages can be part of a joyful, God-honoring life.
2. Guard Against Excess: Drunkenness is a sin that leads to loss of self-control, poor judgment, and spiritual harm. Christians should set clear boundaries to avoid crossing into excess, heeding the warnings of Proverbs and Ephesians.
3. Consider Your Witness: Even if drinking is permissible, Christians must consider how their actions affect others. Abstaining in certain settings may be an act of love to avoid causing offense or temptation.
4. Seek Wisdom And The Spirit’s Guidance: Decisions about alcohol should be made prayerfully, with a focus on glorifying God and living out the fruit of the Spirit, including self-control.

Conclusion

The Bible, as presented in the King James Version, offers a balanced perspective on alcohol. Drinking wine or other alcoholic beverages is not inherently sinful; in fact, Scripture portrays it as a gift from God when used in moderation. However, drunkenness is unequivocally condemned as a sin that leads to spiritual and practical harm. Christians are called to exercise wisdom, self-control, and love in their approach to alcohol, ensuring that their actions align with God’s glory and the well-being of others.

By grounding our understanding in Scripture, we can navigate this topic with clarity and confidence, avoiding both legalistic prohibition and careless excess. As 1 Corinthians 6:12 (KJV) reminds us, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” May we approach alcohol—and all of life—with a heart surrendered to God, seeking to honor Him in all we do.