Wine

<<fermented juice>>

In biblical times wine, both fermented (intoxicating) and non-fermented (non-intoxicating), was made from the juice of grapes and stored in animal skins. It is still is a common drink in the Mediterranean region (Mt 9:17). Jesus made water into wine, although the Bible does not indicate if this was fermented or non-fermented (Jn 2:1-10). At the last supper Jesus established wine as a symbol of His blood (Mt 26:27-29).

Although drinking is not forbidden in the Bible, warnings are given that it can pervert the judgement of those who consume it. Drinking in excess results in losing control of one’s faculties with drunkenness being a disgrace that brings condemnation (Gen 9:21, 19:31-36; Prov 20:1, 21:17, 31:4,5; Lk 21:34). Prior to salvation we may have “done what the

Be wise in your use of wine and other alcoholic drinks

pagans do”' but now as Christians we should be role models that society can look up to, and not a stumbling block to those less disciplined in their habits. Paul says we should not even associate with those who claim to be believers yet are drunkards (Rom 14:21; 1 Cor 5:12, 6:12,8:9-18, 10:23,24; 1 Pet 4:3 ). Many people have innocently started with a sociable drink yet this has escalated into an addiction, bringing violence, heartache and poverty into their home situation, and their life and reputation ruined.

A biblical requirement for the church leaders was that they should have sober habits and not consume too much wine (1 Tim 3:3,8). As Christians we should behave decently, not being drunk on wine, but being filled with the Spirit (Rom 13:13; Eph 5:18; Tit 2:3). At all times we should be in control of our faculties, not impaired by any substance, and set a

Don’t do what can cause harm or lead another astray

good example so as not cause another to fall into sin (Rom 14:13). Although there are documented benefits when wine is used for medicinal purposes, modern civilization has alternative treatments available (1 Tim 5:3).