Genesis 9:20-28
Proper Context of Alcohol in Scriptures
- Wine was the primary alcohol in ancient times.
- There was no refrigeration in ancient times.
- Naturally fermented wine is between 5 to 20% alcohol.
- Wine was mixed with water to help purify it. The result, the beverage was 1 to 5% alcohol.
- Scripture reveals that wine is given to men by God. – Psalm
Even though wine is the context whatever scripture says about alcohol can be applied to any alcoholic beverage.
What does Scripture say?
- Ephesians 5:18
- Romans 13:13
- Galatians 5:19-21
- 1 Peter 4:1-6
Don’t get drunk!
Examples of Drunk Consequences
- Lot
- Samson
- Ammon
- Asa
- Ahasuerus and Vashti
So, is alcohol the problem?
- No, the problem is debauchery.
- Debauchery – Excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures.
- Why is debauchery wrong – indulging leads to putting self before others which in turn usually hurts others.
Can Christians consume alcohol?
- Nothing in scripture absolutely forbids drinking alcohol. – 1 Cor 6:12
- But, there is the expectation of moderation. – 1 Peter 5:8
- Those who choose to consume must be conscience of the brother’s weakness – 1 Cor 8
- If it is a vice, avoid it at all costs! – James 1:12-15 & 1 Cor 10:13
Don’t be like Ham?
- Ham did nothing to help his father.
- Ham did more damage than good.
We are each other’s keeper.
- Galatians 6:1-2
- Romans 15:1-3
- James 5:19-20
Accountability relies on Scripture
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17
- Teach the one who doesn’t know better.
- Correct the one who misunderstands.
- Rebuke the one who knows better. – Matthew 18:15-17
Judge properly.
- Matthew 7:1-5
- vv. 1-2 is not a prohibition to judge but a warning on how to judge.
- vv. 3-5 is a call to self-examination before confrontation.This is not an excuse not to confront, but instruction on how to confront lovingly.
So What?
- Fulfill sensual desires responsibly and moderately. Never put such desires above the needs of others.
- Loving a “brothers” means to not allow them to put sensual desires above other people.