THE BIG QUESTION: As A Christian, Do You Think Drinking Alcohol Is A Sin?

This is a dicey topic. People have different opinions regarding Christians and alcohol. We are all learning so you can add or subtract anywhere you want to. So the question is ‘Is drinking alcohol a sin’?

I think as a Christian, drinking alcohol is NOT a sin. There are many instances in the bible where alcohol was mentioned. The bible is the manual which ‘teaches’ us how to ‘assemble’, and how to ‘function’ as Christians.

The Bible does not necessarily forbid a Christian from drinking wine, beer or any other drink containing alcohol. In some parts of the Scriptures, alcohol is discussed in positive ways. Solomon in Ecclesiastes wrote: “Drink your wine with a merry heart.” Psalm 104: 14-15 states that “God gives wine that makes glad the heart of men.” In the book of Amos 9:14, it discusses drinking wine from your own vineyard as a sign of God’s blessings.

What God commands Christians regarding alcohol is to avoid drunkenness. The bible condemns drunkenness and its effect. Christians are also commanded to not allow their bodies to be ‘mastered’ by anything. Simply, don’t let alcohol control you. Drinking alcohol in excess undeniably leads to addiction.

I used to be a Presbyterian and the communion we took then, contained alcohol. I don’t know how it is now, but in all the ‘charismatic’ churches I have worshiped, they seem to serve as communion. I am not condemning that.

My point is alcohol is not, in and of itself, tainted by sin, it is drunkenness and addiction to alcohol that a Christian must absolutely refrain from.

Finally, alcohol consumed in small quantities is neither harmful nor addictive. In fact, some doctors recommend drinking small amounts of red wine because it is good for the heart.

Consumption of alcohol in small quantities is a matter of Christian freedom. If you know you cannot drink small amount of alcohol as a Christian, it is advisable to look the other way.

BUT DRINKING ALCOHOL IS NOT A SIN. ADDICTION AND DRUNKENNESS IS WHAT THE BIBLE, OUR MANUAL, FORBIDS!

I stand to be corrected on this. You’re free to agree or disagree!

Do you drink alcohol? How often and what is your take on alcohol and your religion?

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About the author

Jen Adjei is a Ghanaian based in the UK. Schooled at Achimota, Accra Girls and IPS. Before moving to the UK, she wrote several articles for a one of the tabloids in Ghana. She blogs about Health, Lifestyle, Social and Relationships.