What Does The Bible Say About Drinking

Is it okay for Christians to drink alcohol? The Bible doesn’t forbid drinking altogether. In fact, Jesus and His disciples drank wine. However, Scripture consistently warns us to avoid drunkenness and excess. Let’s take a closer look at what the Bible teaches about drinking.

Drinking as Part of Celebration

God created food and drink as gifts for His people — not only to sustain us, but also to bring joy in times of celebration.

• “He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts.” (Psalm 104:14–15)
• “Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do.” (Ecclesiastes 9:7)

Jesus Himself blessed a wedding feast in Cana by turning water into wine (John 2:1–11). Later, He shared wine with His disciples as part of instituting the New Covenant at the Last Supper (Matthew 26:27–29).

Even though Jesus ate and drank with people, He never sinned or lost control — showing that fellowship and celebration are good, but must remain within God’s boundaries (Luke 7:34; 1 Peter 2:22).

Wine as a Form of Medicine

In the ancient world, wine was often used for practical health purposes. Paul advised Timothy:

• “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.” (1 Timothy 5:23)

Wine was sometimes used as a disinfectant, a way to ease stomach troubles, and even to help with fevers. While medicine has advanced today, this shows that alcohol was not always tied to abuse or excess, but could be beneficial when used carefully.

The Warnings About Drunkenness

The Bible repeatedly draws a clear line between drinking in moderation and losing control through drunkenness.

• “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18)
• “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” (Proverbs 20:1)
• “For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry.” (1 Peter 4:3)

Drunkenness dulls our ability to reflect God, weakens self-control, and can lead others into sin. That’s why moderation is emphasized as a mark of wisdom.

Why God Cautions Against Excess

One of the fruits of the Spirit is self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). When alcohol takes control of someone, it undermines their ability to stay alert, make wise choices, and represent Christ well.

Romans 14:21 reminds us that our choices affect others:
“It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.”

God calls us to be lights in the world. Drinking in excess not only damages our walk with Him but can also harm our witness to others.

Choosing to Abstain

Although drinking in moderation is permitted, many Christians choose to abstain altogether. This may be because of personal conviction, past struggles with alcohol, or simply the desire to avoid temptation. Both choices — drinking responsibly or abstaining — can honor God when made with a heart of obedience and wisdom.

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