Social Drinking
Wine

Scripture Reading: John 2:8-9a

Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.”
They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine.

So far, this week we have considered the serious consequences of getting drunk or even getting a “buzz” from alcohol. Let’s push further into this discussion: Is it wrong to drink if we absolutely stay clear of any and all level of drunkenness?

First, we must understand, as the apostle Paul states in 1 Corinthians, that “all things are permissible, but not all things are beneficial.” So, social drinking needs the scrutiny of its “beneficial” effect. The New Testament does not condemn the drinking of wine – in fact the apostle Paul told young preacher Timothy to drink a little wine for his stomach. The drinking water of their day was far from what it is today – wine was often the better (and healthier) choice. I don’t feel it’s necessary to debate the “kind of wine,” or its “strength,” that they drank. I believe the followers of Christ did drink wine in Jesus’ day!

Second, we must make the distinction of the level of effect that wine had on their culture versus our present culture. Our present culture has made alcohol it’s “god” and it is wreaking havoc on our society. The abuse of alcohol sky rockets far beyond all other social ills of our day. We “pick on” alcohol over and above the other evils of our day because it has earned that “leading spot.” Tomorrow we’ll look at the clear evidence of alcohol’s plague on our society!

“Father, make me wise in all my daily choices. Give me strength not to participate in anything that brings harm to your Kingdom purposes and your other cherished children. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”