What does the Bible say about alcohol?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible permits the moderate use of alcohol as a good gift of God, yet strongly warns against drunkenness, addiction, and any use that harms oneself or leads others into sin. Ephesians 5:18 commands believers to be filled with the Spirit rather than wine, while Proverbs 20:1 and Proverbs 23:29-35 portray the deception, misery, and loss of self-control that drink can bring. Scripture recognizes legitimate medicinal use in 1 Timothy 5:23, but calls Christians to sober-minded holiness. Romans 14:21 teaches loving restraint when drinking would wound another's conscience, and Galatians 5:21 warns that habitual drunkenness is incompatible with the kingdom life. Christ saves and renews those formerly enslaved to such sins, as 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 declares.