In a world where alcohol consumption is often glorified and normalized, it’s crucial to examine what the Bible says about drunkenness and its effects on our spiritual and physical lives. This article isn’t meant to condemn or judge, but rather to provide clarity and understanding on a topic that impacts many.
The Bible doesn’t shy away from addressing drunkenness. It’s mentioned explicitly as one of the “works of the flesh” in Galatians 5:21, but what exactly does this mean, and how should we, as believers, approach the subject of alcohol?
First, it’s essential to understand what drunkenness entails. The dictionary defines it as a state in which a person is overwhelmed or overpowered by spiritous liquors, causing disordered reasoning and impaired physical control. This loss of faculties is at the heart of why drunkenness is considered problematic from a biblical standpoint.
Throughout Scripture, we see numerous examples and warnings about the dangers of excessive drinking. From Noah’s compromising situation in Genesis 9 to the tragic story of Lot and his daughters in Genesis 19, the Bible doesn’t hesitate to show the devastating consequences that can result from drunkenness.
Other examples of the dangers of excessive drinking include:
- King Belshazzar’s drunken feast preceded the fall of Babylon (Daniel 5).
- Proverbs 23 vividly describes alcohol as biting like a serpent and stinging like an adder.
Proverbs, in particular, offers stark warnings about alcohol’s deceptive nature. “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1). This verse reminds us that alcohol can cloud judgment, lead us astray, and have inordinate power over us.
However, it’s important to note that the Bible doesn’t universally condemn all alcohol consumption. Jesus’ first recorded miracle was turning water into wine at a wedding feast (John 2). The Apostle Paul advised Timothy to “use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities” (1 Timothy 5:23). Even Ecclesiastes speaks of enjoying wine as part of life’s pleasures (Ecclesiastes 9:7).
So how do we reconcile these seemingly conflicting messages? The key lies in moderation and self-control. While the Bible allows for responsible alcohol consumption, it consistently warns against excess and losing control. Ephesians 5:18 captures this balance perfectly: “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;.”
This verse presents a powerful contrast. Instead of being controlled by alcohol, believers are called to be filled with and controlled by the Holy Spirit. It’s a reminder that our sufficiency should be found in Christ alone, not in substances that temporarily alter our state of mind.
The dangers of drunkenness extend beyond just the immediate effects of intoxication. The Bible warns that it can lead to poverty (Proverbs 23:21), impaired leadership (Proverbs 31:4-5), and compromised testimony (1 Peter 4:3-4). Moreover, relying on alcohol to cope with life’s challenges, find acceptance, or have fun reveals a deeper spiritual issue – we’re seeking fulfillment and comfort in something other than Christ.
For those in leadership positions within the church, the standards are even higher. The qualifications for elders and deacons specifically mention not being given too much wine (1 Timothy 3:3, 8). This emphasizes the importance of clear-headed judgment and self-control for those in spiritual authority.
But what about those who aren’t in leadership? The principles of sobriety and temperance apply to all believers. Titus 2 exhorts both older men and women to be “sober” and “not given to much wine.” This isn’t about legalism but about living a life that reflects the transformative power of the gospel of Christ.
So how should we approach alcohol as believers in light of these biblical teachings? Here are a few key points to consider:
- Recognize alcohol’s potential for deception. As Proverbs warns us, it can make us think we’re in control when we’re not.
- Be honest with yourself. If you need alcohol to cope with life, have fun, or fit in, it may be time to examine your reliance on it.
- Seek your sufficiency in Christ. Turning to alcohol (or any substance) to meet emotional or spiritual needs is a sign that we’re not fully trusting in God’s provision.
- Exercise wisdom and moderation. If you choose to drink, do so responsibly and in moderation, always being mindful of your testimony and influence on others.
- Be sensitive to others. Remember that many people struggle with alcohol addiction. Your freedom to drink shouldn’t become a stumbling block for someone else.
- Consider abstinence. Given alcohol’s potential dangers, many find that complete abstinence is the safest and wisest course of action.
It’s worth noting that alcohol abuse is a complex issue, often intertwined with trauma, mental health struggles, and addictive tendencies. While the Bible’s teachings on drunkenness are clear, we must approach those struggling with compassion, understanding, and a willingness to help them find freedom in Christ.
As we seek to understand this complex issue, let’s remember that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). We’re called to honor God with our bodies, which includes being thoughtful and intentional about what we consume and how it affects us.
As we endeavor to navigate as believers in a society where alcohol is often central to social interactions and stress relief, let’s commit to being sober-minded, filled with the Spirit, and finding our ultimate satisfaction in Jesus. Whether we choose to abstain entirely or to enjoy alcohol in strict moderation, may our lives be marked by self-control, wisdom, and a passionate pursuit of God’s will, i.e., refraining from drunkenness.
In a culture that often glorifies excess, let’s be a counter-cultural witness to the freedom and joy found in living the Grace Life – a life that doesn’t need artificial stimulants to find meaning, acceptance, or peace. As we do so, we’ll discover that the richest, most satisfying life is one lived in the fullness of our identity in Christ, not in the fleeting pleasures of the bottle. Let’s challenge ourselves to examine our hearts, be honest about our motivations, and make choices that honor God and benefit others. In doing so, we’ll experience the true freedom and joy that comes from living under the influence of the Holy Spirit rather than any earthly substance.
Pastor Bryan Ross
Grace Life Bible Church
Grand Rapids, MI
April 11, 2025
Resources For Further Study
61) Galatians 5:21 The Works Of The Flesh, Part 6 (Envyings & Murders) (YouTube Video)
What Is The Flesh? (Blog Article)
The War Within: Understanding the Flesh and the Spirit (Blog Article)
The Works of the Flesh: A Spiritual Checklist (Adultery, Fornication, Uncleanness, & Lasciviousness) (Blog Article)
The Works of the Flesh: A Spiritual Checklist, Part 2 (Witchcraft) (Blog Article)
The Works of the Flesh: A Spiritual Checklist, Part 3 (Hatred, Variance, & Emulations) (Blog Article)
The Works of the Flesh: A Spiritual Checklist, Part 4 (Wrath, Strife, & Sedition) (Blog Article)
The Works of the Flesh: A Spritual Checklist, Part 5 (Heresy) (Blog Article)
The Works of the Flesh: A Spritual Checklist, Part 6 (Envyings & Murders) (Blog Article)