What does the Bible say about wine drinking?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible permits the responsible use of wine but strongly condemns drunkenness, addiction, and any use that dishonors God or harms others. Paul advised Timothy to use a little wine medicinally in 1 Timothy 5:23, showing that wine itself is not inherently sinful. Yet Proverbs 20:1, Ephesians 5:18, Isaiah 5:11, and Proverbs 23:29-35 warn that intoxication deceives, enslaves, and brings grief and ruin. Christians are called to sober-minded self-control and love for neighbor. Romans 14:21 teaches believers to forgo even lawful freedoms when their example might cause another to stumble, while Luke 21:34 warns against hearts weighed down by dissipation.
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- 1 Timothy 5:23
Be no longer a drinker of water only, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your frequent infirmities.
- Proverbs 20:1
Wine is a mocker, and beer is a brawler; Whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
- Ephesians 5:18
Don't be drunken with wine, in which is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit,
- Romans 14:21
It is good to not eat meat, drink wine, nor do anything by which your brother stumbles, is offended, or is made weak.
- Luke 21:34
"So be careful, or your hearts will be loaded down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day will come on you suddenly.
- Isaiah 5:11
Woe to those who rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; Who stay late into the night, until wine inflames them!
- Proverbs 23:29-35
[29] Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? [30] Those who stay long at the wine; Those who go to seek out mixed wine. [31] Don't look at the wine when it is red, When it sparkles in the cup, When it goes down smoothly: [32] In the end, it bites like a snake, And poisons like a viper. [33] Your eyes will see strange things, And your mind will imagine confusing things. [34] Yes, you will be as he who lies down in the midst of the sea, Or as he who lies on top of the rigging: [35] "They hit me, and I was not hurt; They beat me, and I don't feel it! When will I wake up? I can do it again. I can find another."
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