What Does the Bible Say About Drinking Alcohol?

Question. I have always been taught that drinking was spoken against in the Bible and that it was wrong. Recently, I've been talking to a Christian friend who told me that it was actually okay to drink alcohol according to the Bible. Can you help me sort out these conflicting values? What does the Bible really say about drinking alcohol? -Beth

Answer. The Bible says that God allows Christians to drink alcohol; however, it is forbidden and sinful to becoming drunk and intoxicated by alcohol. Ephesians 5:18 instructs, "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit," highlighting the importance of moderation and spiritual focus. This command is reinforced by other scriptural references such as Proverbs 20:1, 23:20, and Isaiah 5:22, which caution against excessive drinking. The Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, clearly instructs believers to not be drunk, which is a sin.

Although there are some situations in which the Bible forbids alcohol, it never says that alcohol is always wrong. Since the Bible doesn’t absolutely forbid alcohol, whether or not you should drink as an adult becomes a personal decision you have to make for yourself.

When it comes to teen drinking, the answer is even more simple: It’s against the law. Alcohol is absolutely off-limits until you’re twenty one.

God commands us to obey laws like these when He says, "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established." (Romans 13:1). If you disobey the law, then you’re also disobeying God.

Six Things the Bible Says About Drinking Alcohol:

Although I cannot make that personal decision for you, I can share with you some guidance and wisdom from Scriptures when it comes to drinking alcohol"

1. The Bible allows Christians to drink alcohol for medical reasons.

Paul told Timothy, "Stop drinking only water and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illness." (1 Timothy 5:23)

From this verse, we learn that Timothy had many illnesses, and Paul instructs him to use wine to help with his strength and ailments. In New Testament times, a little wine was considered good for one’s stomach. Where we may have modern medicine today to help, during Biblical times, they turned to alcohol to provide relief from physical pain and suffering.

Today, we have access to more potent medications and prescriptions, but historically, especially in Biblical times, it was alcohol that helped alleviate pain. Alcohol for pain management was a blessing from God. The Lord provided a way to ease pain.

2. The Bible sometimes portrays alcohol as something good and enjoyable.

Jesus’ first miracle involved turning water into wine for a wedding celebration. (see John 2:3-11)

Psalm 104 says, "He makes grass to grow for the cattle, and plants for man to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth; wine that gladdens the heart of man, oil to make his face shine, and bread that sustains his heart." (v. 14-15).

King Solomon enjoyed his meals and wine. It was important to gather with family and friends and enjoy time together with good food and wine. Ecclesiastes 9:7: "Go, eat your good with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved of what you do."

These examples show us how alcohol can aid in relaxation, laughter, and general enjoyment.

3. The Bible says drunkenness is a sin and forbids it.

Although the Bible never says that drinking alcohol itself is sinful, it does say many times that drunkenness is a sin. God says, "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." (Ephesians 5:6). In fact, there are many verses in the Bible that speak out against drunkenness. (For a few examples, see Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Peter 4:3.)

Proverbs 23:29-35 vividly describes the effects of drunkenness and warns against indulging in excessive alcohol consumption. It portrays the physical, emotional, and relational toll of drunkenness on an individual. The Bible says it black and white - do not get drunk.

The prophet Isaiah condemns those who “rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink” and engage in excessive drinking (Isaiah 5:11-12). He depicts a society consumed by self-indulgence and calls attention to the destructive nature of drunkenness.

Jesus warns his disciples to “take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life.” This caution from Luke 21:34 emphasizes the need for self-awareness and vigilance against the dangers of excessive consumption.

Paul exhorts believers to “walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” This passage in Romans 13:13 emphasizes the importance of living a life characterized by honesty, self-control, and moral integrity.

“And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18). The apostle Paul’s instruction to the Ephesians warns against being drunk with wine, which is associated with excess and lack of self-control. Instead, believers are encouraged to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

In Galatians 5:19-21, Paul lists drunkenness as one of the “works of the flesh” contrary to the Spirit. He emphasizes that those who practice such behaviors will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Paul includes drunkards in a list of those who will not inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 6:10). This underscores the seriousness of drunkenness as a sin that separates individuals from God’s kingdom.

Paul's advice in 1 Corinthians 6:12 is really practical and relatable. He says, "'All things are lawful for me,' but not all things are helpful. 'All things are lawful for me,' but I will not be enslaved by anything." What he's getting at here is that just because we can do something, doesn't mean we should. Even if it's allowed, it might not be good for us.

Paul is basically telling us to think twice about our choices. He’s encouraging us to ask ourselves whether what we’re doing is actually helping us or could end up controlling us. The idea is to avoid getting trapped by our own actions. By suggesting we avoid things that might enslave us, Paul is nudging us toward living with self-control and making decisions that keep us free and focused on what’s really important—our growth and our faith.

(excerpt from What Does the Bible Say About Drunkenness by Britt Mooney)

4. The Bible forbids drinking alcohol if it offends fellow believers.

God explains in Romans 14 and 1 Corinthians 8 that we should be considerate of other Christians who have different convictions than we do. Some Christians believe that alcohol is always sinful. And their convictions should be respected. God says, "If your brother is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy your brother for whom Christ died. "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit...Let us, therefore, make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification....It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall." (Romans 14:15-21)

That verse says it loud and clear: Don’t drink alcohol if it will offend a brother or sister in Christ.

5. The Bible forbids drinking alcohol if it hinders the gospel.

Paul explained in 1 Corinthians 9 that even though he was allowed to eat and drink anything he wanted, he was very careful not to do things that would hinder the gospel of Christ. He said, "Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many a possible. "I became all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings." (1 Corinthians 9:19-23)

If I was trying to witness to someone who thought it was bad for Christians to drink, there’s no way I would drink alcohol in front of that person!

6. The Bible warns that drinking alcohol is often dangerous and unwise.

The Bible contains lots of warnings about how tempting and dangerous it is to get involved with alcohol. A wise mother told her son, "It is not for kings, O Lemuel - not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights." (Proverbs 31:4-5) And Solomon, one of the wisest men who’ve ever lived, said, "Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper." (Proverbs 23:31)

These Bible passages suggest that it is often wise to totally stay away from alcohol since it can be a difficult thing to control. Alcohol can easily seduce you, and before you know it, it controls you. How many girls have had a few drinks and then ended up in bed with a strange man? How many adults have had a few drinks and then ended up in a serious car accident?

These situations are all too common. God is looking out for you when He warns you about the dangers of alcohol and drunkenness. Getting drunk causes you to lose control of yourself and do things - dangerous things - that you wouldn’t do if you were sober.

Dangers and Consequences of Drunkenness

The Bible addresses the issue of drunkenness on numerous occasions, clearly outlining the moral and practical dangers associated with excessive drinking. Here are some key dangers and consequences of drunkenness according to biblical passages:

Loss of Control and Impropriety: Ephesians 5:18 cautions, "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery." This verse highlights how drunkenness leads to a loss of self-control and engaging in reckless behavior or debauchery.
Impaired Judgment and Decision Making: Proverbs 31:4-5 advises rulers against drinking alcohol because it can impair judgment and lead to poor decision-making: "It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for princes intoxicating drink; lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the justice of all the afflicted."
Vulnerability to Sin and Temptation: Drunkenness often makes individuals more susceptible to other sins. Galatians 5:21 lists drunkenness among the "acts of the flesh" that can prevent a person from inheriting the kingdom of God.
Health and Social Consequences: Proverbs 23:29-35 paints a vivid picture of the woes that come with heavy drinking, including woe, sorrow, strife, and complaints. It also talks about the physical consequences like redness of eyes and injuries without cause, portraying the social and health issues that can arise.
Economic Hardship: Proverbs 21:17 states, "Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich." This verse suggests that an indulgence in alcohol can lead to financial instability.
General Warnings Against Excess: The Bible doesn't prohibit drinking alcohol entirely, but it consistently warns against excess and the resulting negative outcomes. For instance, Luke 21:34 warns that drunkenness can dull a person’s readiness for God's kingdom: "Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap."
Deterioration of Family and Social Relationships:Drunkenness can lead to strained or broken relationships within families and communities, though specific verses might imply rather than explicitly state this consequence.

The Bible's stance on drunkenness is clear in its consistent warnings about the spiritual, physical, and social ramifications of excessive drinking. These teachings urge moderation and vigilance to maintain one’s spiritual and practical well-being.

I think it is possible to live a godly life and enjoy a small amount of alcohol. But the person who chooses not to drink at all also lives a godly life as long as he does it without condemning those who do.

Bravo to those of you who take some time to seek God’s will about drinking and prepare yourselves for the future.

Checking Your Motives Before Drinking

The Bible offers wisdom on the importance of our intentions in everything we do. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, we are reminded, "So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." This verse inspires us to consider whether our actions, including drinking, honor God.

It's helpful to ask ourselves why we're reaching for a drink. Are we looking to escape, to fit in, or simply because we enjoy the taste in a social setting? The motivation behind our choices can reveal a lot about where we are spiritually and emotionally.

The Bible also warns us about the potential pitfalls of drinking, such as in Ephesians 5:18 where it cautions, "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery." This advice is a call to use discernment, ensuring that we don't allow ourselves to be controlled by our appetites.

By examining our motives, we guard our hearts and align our actions with our values. Checking why we drink is part of maintaining control and ensuring our choices reflect our faith and what’s truly important to us.

Bible Verses about Alcohol and Drinking

Ephesians 5:18 - And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,

Proverbs 20:1 - Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11- Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Isaiah 5:11 - "Woe to those who rise early in the morning, that they may run after strong drink, who tarry late into the evening as wine inflames them!"

Isaiah 5:22 - "Woe to those who are heroes at drinking wine, and valiant men in mixing strong drink,"

1 Timothy 3:8 - "Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain."

Isaiah 25:6 - "On this mountain the Lord Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples, a banquet of aged wine—the best of meats and the finest of wines." This verse is part of a passage that prophesies the ultimate salvation and victory of God, which culminates in a grand celebration for all peoples. The reference to "aged wine" and a feast in Isaiah 25:6 is often interpreted symbolically by many theologians. It signifies the fullness of blessings and divine generosity that God will bestow upon His people in the end times. It represents a time of restoration and celebration where all tears and pain are wiped away, and the faithful are welcomed into eternal fellowship with God.

Some might interpret this passage more literally, envisioning a real banquet in the new heaven and new earth where believers will partake in eating and drinking, including wine, as part of their celebration in God’s presence. This view is supported by other scriptural passages that depict heavenly banquets and the use of wine in positive contexts.

Whether literal or symbolic, the imagery of wine at the feast speaks to the richness and joy of the eternal life promised to believers. In the context of whether Christians will drink wine in the new heaven and new earth, this passage suggests that joyous celebration with elements familiar and comforting to humans, like wine, could very well be part of that everlasting peace and happiness. It resonates with the continuity between the good things of this world and their perfected forms in the next.

Jesus Himself uses the imagery of wine in the context of the Kingdom of God. At the Last Supper, He spoke of the fruit of the vine that He would next drink anew in His Father’s kingdom, suggesting a continuation of some earthly joys in the heavenly realm (Matthew 26:29).

Warning Sign You May Struggle with Drinking Alcohol

Understanding early warning signs of the increasing grip of alcohol dependence will help you make changes or seek help while it’s easier to do. So, here are four ways to determine if alcohol has become a stronghold in your life.

1. You Defend Your “Right to Drink It”. Christian or not, if you’re unable to discuss even the possibility of abstaining from alcohol—if you won’t allow it to be an option—without becoming protective and defensive, it’s a concerning sign of a potential stronghold.

2. You Go Out of Your Way to Have it. If you’ve ever driven to the part of town where you know you won’t run into anyone you know to buy alcohol, or have a secret hiding place in your home where you keep it, or ventured out after dark to buy some because you’re out, or the amount you drink in one sitting doesn’t matter—alcohol may have a potential stronghold in your life.

3. You’re Constantly Mentioning It. It’s a safe and perfectly reasonable conclusion to come to that alcohol is a stronghold in your life if you keep bringing it up in conversation, despite the fact that you might say you’re just “joking” about it.

4. You Can’t Imagine a Good Time Without It. Birthdays, college graduations, vacations, work holiday parties, sporting events, get-togethers with friends—the list goes on and on for gatherings and events where people believe that alcohol is the only way to have fun or at least a bearable experience. If the thought of participating or attending these events without the consumption of alcohol is difficult for you, then you have to seriously consider that alcohol is a stronghold in your life.

*Section excerpt taken from 4 Signs Alcohol May Be a Stronghold in Your Life by Homer Purdy

Watch: Are Christians Allowed to Drink Alcohol?

Related: Is it Wrong for Christians to Have a Drink of Alcohol by Joel Engle

This article is part of our larger Spiritual Life resource meant to answer your questions about the Bible, God and the Christian faith. Visit our most popular questions on “What does the Bible say about…” questions answered by well known Christians and theologians to find more inspiration. Remember that as you read these articles, the Holy Spirit will give you understanding and discernment to make the right decision for your walk with Jesus Christ! If you know others struggling with these faith questions, please share and help others discover the truth on these controversial topics.
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