Can Christians Drink?
May 2, 2009
![[Post to Twitter]](http://www.konghee.com/www/wp-content/plugins/tweet-this/icons/tt-twitter-micro2.png){kind=icon}
At its 36th Bi-Annual National Conference held on April 23-24, 2007, the Assemblies of God in Australia introduced a new code allowing AG pastors to consume alcohol. However it also urged extreme caution when drinking, and highlighted that drunkenness is prohibited.
According to the Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, throughout the first 1,800 years of church history, Christians consumed alcoholic beverages as a common part of everyday life and nearly always used wine (fermented grape juice) in the Eucharist or the Lord’s Supper. Many of the early church fathers allowed wine drinking in moderation. The Catholic Church requires properly fermented wine in their Eucharist. The Reformers from Luther and Calvin to Zwingli and Knox strongly supported the enjoyment of wine as a biblical blessing. It was said that Calvin’s annual salary in Geneva included seven barrels of wine. Even the conservative and strict English Puritans were temperate partakers of wine and ale, which they considered as “God’s good gifts.” It was in the mid-1800s when some Protestant Christians moved from this historic position of allowing moderate use of alcohol to the total prohibiting of all drinking.
Are Christians allowed to drink wine and beverages that contain alcohol? Let us look at some standard objections against drinking of alcoholic beverages:
1. Word Study: Those who argue against drinking seek to use “word study” as a pretext to prove that scripturally-approved wine is non-alcoholic in nature. However, their contention is tenuous and doesn’t stand up to close rigorous examination. There are 12 Hebrew words used to denote “wine.” The three most common ones are:
- Yayin (H3196), used 113 times in the Old Testament. Opponents of drinking often claim that, depending on the context, this could mean non-fermented alcohol. Not true. According to the authoritative Strong’s Hebrew & Greek Dictionary, yayin is definitely fermented, alcoholic wine.
- Tirosh (H8492), used 40 times in the Old Testament and translated as “new wine” (Prov. 3:10) or “sweet wine” (Micah 6:15). Opponents of drinking claim this is fresh grape juice with no alcohol content. Again, not true. The Strong’s Hebrew & Greek Dictionary says that although it is freshly squeezed grapes, it is nonetheless fermented. Easton’s Bible Dictionary says that tirosh has the root meaning “to take possession of,” implying that it can intoxicate the brain (Hosea 4:11).
- Shekar (H7941), used 20 times in the Old Testament. It means strong drink, intense alcoholic liquor. No dispute here.
In the New Testament, the two main Greek words for wine are:
- Oinos (G3631), used 25 times. Since it is the counterpart to the Old Testament word yayin, opponents of drinking again claim that it was often unfermented and non-alcoholic; and even if it was alcoholic, oinos was so diluted with water that it had become virtually non-alcoholic. Not true. According to The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament, the fact that Jesus mentions that oinos was capable of bursting wine skins (Matt. 9:17) implies strong fermentation.
- Gleukos (G1098), used once in Acts 2:13, and is the counterpart to the Old Testament tirosh. Opponents of drinking claim this is totally non-alcoholic, just like the English glucose, which is dextrose or grape-sugar. Others claim this is nothing more than freshly squeezed grape juice. Not true again. The Strong’s Hebrew & Greek Dictionary says it is a highly intoxicating, fermented drink. The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary says that when “Peter replies (Acts 2:15), ‘These men are not drunk, as you suppose.’ If the wine was not intoxicating, the accusation could only have been ironical. From the explanations of the ancient lexicographers we may infer that the luscious qualities of this wine were due not to its being recently made but to its being produced from the purest juice of the grape.”
Upon close examination, to say that the wine in the Bible was unfermented grape juice or some form of sub-alcoholic, purified water is extremely speculative. In fact, the Bible clearly makes a clear distinction between wine and grape juice. In the Nazirite vow of Numbers 6:3, God instructed that “he shall drink neither vinegar made from wine nor vinegar made from similar drink; neither shall he drink any grape juice, nor eat fresh grapes or raisins.” In other words, when the Scriptures talk about wine, they are not referring to grape juice and vice versa.
 |
A thorough word study of wine will bring us to the same conclusion as the Dictionary of Jesus & the Gospel: “All wine mentioned in the Bible is fermented grape juice with an alcohol content. No non-fermented drink was called wine.”
2. Holy Communion: When the Lord’s Supper was instituted, the wine and the unleavened bread on the table were set apart as the body and blood of Christ. Jesus says, “But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father’s kingdom” (Matt. 26:29). Opponents of drinking take the fruit of the vine to mean grape juice. But when Paul rebuked the Corinthians for their abuse of the Lord’s Supper, he blasted them for abusing the wine to get drunk (1 Cor. 11:20-21). Obviously, one must conclude that the beverage used for the Lord’s Supper could not be grape juice but real alcoholic wine.
3. Qualification of a Bishop: Opponents of drinking often quote 1 Timothy 3:2-3 when Paul says that a bishop must be a man “not given to wine.” The word “given” (Gr. paroinos) means “drunken.” The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament says, “The word does not include the responsible and temperate usage of alcohol, rather, it has in view the abuse or incessant use of it. The word-picture is that of an individual who always has a bottle (or wineskin) on the table and so signifies addiction.”
4. Drunkenness. Without a doubt, drunkenness is a sin. Scripturally, it is portrayed negatively with characteristics such as staggering, reeling, vomiting, loss of mental control, and possible addiction. Poverty, immorality and sexual perversion are commonly mentioned in the Bible as results of drunkenness. Priests and prophets are judged for drunkenness, which prevents them from performing their duties (Is. 28:7). No bishop or church leader can be a drunkard (Titus 1:7; 2:2-5). Drunkards will not inherit the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 6:9-10; Gal. 5:21). Opponents of drinking posit that since drinking potentially causes drunkenness, we should never pick up the first drink. If that argument is true, then the same must be said of food, money, work and sex since they could also lead to gluttony, greed, workaholism and sex addiction. Should one abstain from them all because of potential danger? Of course, not.
5. Health: Opponents of drinking claim that alcohol impairs and destroys our body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Not all true. Studies have found that moderate alcohol consumption has health benefits like lowering the risk of heart attack, diabetes, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. In some cases, it actually increases longevity. Paul instructed Timothy, “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities” (1 Tim. 5:23). But drunkenness or alcoholic intoxication affects the brain, causes slurred speech, clumsiness, and delayed reflexes. Long-term excessive consumption can permanently damage the liver and brain, and cause some forms of cancer. As such, moderation is the key.
What then is the Bible’s general attitude toward wine and drinking? One cannot deny that both the Old and New Testament view wine drinking favorably:
- Sign of God’s blessing: Abundant wine was considered a sign of blessing and prosperity from God, not something to be shunned (Gen. 49:11-12; Deut. 7:13; Prov. 31:6; Joel 2:24; 3:18; Amos 9:13-14; Is. 55:1; Zech. 10:7). Isaac blessed Jacob by saying, “Therefore may God give you of the dew of heaven, of the fatness of the earth, and plenty of grain and wine” (Gen. 27:28). Conversely, the lack of wine was a symbol of judgment and calamity (Deut. 28:30; Is. 16:10; 24:11; 65:21; Jer. 48:33; Joel 1:5; Amos 5:11; Micah 6:15; Zeph. 1:13).
- Righteous offering to God: Starting back in Genesis, Melchizedek the priest of God Most High used wine in religious ceremonial offering (Gen. 14:18). Wine was used as offerings to God ever since.
- Enjoyment: Psalms 104:15 says that God gives His people “wine that makes glad the heart of man.” Ecclesiastes 9:7 says, “Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart; for God has already accepted your works.” Wine was always considered a source of joy, one of the good things created for people (Judges 9:13; 2 Sam. 13:28; Esther 1:10; Eccl. 2:3; 10:19; Is. 24:11; Zech. 10:7). Until today, Jews use wine on Sabbath for Kiddush as well as in the Passover ceremony and in other religious ceremonies, and allow the use of alcohol, such as kosher wine. Many ancient Jewish texts such as the Talmud even encourage moderate amounts of drinking on holidays such as Purim, in order to make the occasion more joyous.
- Normal: Like fasting, abstinence from wine was the exception and not the norm for God’s people. We see that in Daniel (Dan. 1:8-16), the Rechabites (Jer. 35:1-19), and the Nazirites (Num. 6:1-4).
- Jesus Himself drank wine: “The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’” (Matt. 11:18-19). To be accused of being a winebibber, Jesus obviously drank alcoholic wine. And He permitted the use of wine in festivities like the wedding of Cana (John 2:1-11). In fact, His first miracle was to turn water into wine. Jesus even used the imagery of fermented wine to describe His teaching as “new wine” (Matt. 9:17).
With alcoholism an increasing problem in society, it is understandable why some may want to caution against drinking. But to twist Scriptures in order to prove wine as unfermented grape juice is certainly not an honest way to go.
Abstinence was never an issue in the Old Testament, New Testament, early church or the Reformation. There is never any direct prohibition of the use of wine in the Bible. But anything done in excess is wrong. Moderation is the watchword (Phil. 4:5 KJV). In this case, the Bible permits drinking but at the same time, discourages drunkenness. Besides, the use of wine is dependent upon the conscience and the sensitivities of others. It is not to be indulged in if it will lead others to drink against their conscience (Rom. 14:19-21).
Similar Posts:
- None Found
Great Pastor!!! I have never met pastors who talk about alcohol so openly like you…
Thanx Pastor Kong
HE turned the water into wine.
During the “last supper” – wine & bread.
That should settle it.
Drink but don’t get drunk. (Drink driving can kill innocent lives.)
If the Holy Spirit convicts you not to drink – DON’T DRINK!
Hey Pastor!! Thanks so much for posting such a wonderful post! God bless!
hi pst.
yes i do agree with your post. i feel, blanace is one important key factor in our lives. God created all things good, yet it is dependent on us, to live out the goodness n make good use of what that is given to us. to some, the consumption of alcohol is to drown their sorrows, some is to use it as an excuse to do harm to others, ect, rape- “opps, i was drunk” , yet the original intention of the invention of wine is for pleasure, to a certain extend like you have mention, it benefits our health!
great post pst! i’m sure many business people out there are saying a million of thanks to you for clearing their doubts “can i drink with my client? , will i be sinning against God if i do?”
pst, you’ve never failed to surprise me with your boldness in addressing sensitive issues without hestitation. thank you pst!
Moderation really is the key to a lot of things in life. Life gets messed up once anything becomes overly-excessive (i.e. addiction) in our lives.
Anyways, I like this entry, totally awesome as it’s exactly my thoughts about drinking (i.e. it’s ok to drink, but not to get drunk) *two thumbs up* Cheers! =D
Beautiful and solid piece! Thanks Pastor
I’d say when it comes to ‘drinking’ or alcohol there is a difference between brewing beer and fermenting fruit. A glass of red wine a day for adults could be reasonable because let’s face it alcohol along with protein, fats and carbohydrates is a natural by-product in our bodies, but a beer a day for a teenager is probably not so healthy.
‘…The ancient Mesopotamians and Sumerians were brewing as early as 10,000 BC. However, clay tablets, with a recipe for beer, from approximately the year 6,000 B.C., in Babylonia, is the first documented evidence of beer making. This recipe utilized underbaked bread made from germinated barley. ‘
http://www.botany.hawaii.edu/faculty/wong/BOT135/Lect14.htm
Celebrating the Eucharist you get a choice of wine or grape juice. It’s really a lifestyle choice as well, some people want to aspire to keep their body holy, the same way some priests don’t marry. Ethanol is a psychoactive drug, I learnt from studying molecular biology it does copious damage to your brain cells. Anyone in chemistry can make it but pure ethanol is digusting, it has to be ‘dirty’ for actual taste and goodness knows what impurities they add to it to make it tasty. I just don’t want that in my body, same way I don’t want MSG or Genetically Modified Foods as eventual parts of my DNA.
When I travel overseas I usually stay at affordable hostels, the best ones I noticed are owned by Muslims because Islam strictly prohibit alcohol on the premise and I end up having peaceful sleeps without the romp, bustle of drunk backpackers. I think it’s a real shame that perhaps Falala Hotel for the same price is more clean and safe than YMCA.
I’d say both camps have a legitimate argument, I’m probably more with John the Baptist when it comes to wine. I’ve seen the damage ethanol can do to young people today, under-age binge drinking, kids with the money to purchase alcohol, proliferation of pubs, pub crawl etc. etc. When it comes to spiritual matters such as celebrating the body of Christ, now that we have the Holy Spirit who can makes us feel drunk, is there a real need for alcohol?
Having said that I’d say it is a lifestyle choice and once in a while at a work party someone will pop a bubbly of champagne and you don’t wanna end up the anal party pooper because how on earth do you bring people to Christ with camel-hair garment on, eating locusts and wild honey? Where does one even get ‘wild’ honey from? Actually some may disagree with me there, there might be some cultures in the world today who embrace shagedelic men wearing camel-hair.. like Hollywood.
For me personally I don’t drink but I do have a holiday house near the vineyards so I may indulge myself to a glass occasionally but I don’t believe it should be supported as an ok thing by the church because I don’t think alcohol has much relevance today in terms of spiritual matters. I’m sure Jesus’ point was not about the legitimacy of alcohol itself but a demonstration of His blood cleansing us from sin etc. etc. I do believe we have an obligation to keep our bodies holy and the Holy Spirit should lead us to decide whether we should drink or not.
Dear Pst Kong
Yay! Juz like smoking n tatooing, to each his own conscience =)
Really power-packed, this post is!
Much Admiration
Mark
thanks pastor as ever u r biblical , honest and unabashed about the facts of life ! any chance u can clear up things like smoking , ‘wordly’ music , how to discourage homosexuality in a non confrontational and biblical manner..etc
you are the freshest , most relevant instrument of god ! than you!
Great Post pst!
It’s amazing how u make controversial topics so easy to understand.
Balance is really the key and let everyone do it according to ones conscience!
Another great post pastor :)
For Christians who enjoy drinking, drink. For Christians who don’t, don’t drink.
For Christians who don’t drink and see others drinking, don’t judge them.
For Christians who drink and see those who don’t drink not drinking, drink their share
The line, however, was drunkedness…
God made all things beautiful and enjoyable
God said “no” to drUnk, not “no” to drInk….
Just like he said… celebRate… not celebate :)
(hope there’s no saints beating their chest at Pearly Gate now… “ALAMAK!!!!! How did miss that R?!!??!!!???”)
keep walking!
Hi Ps Kong,
Thanks for this post that has clarified one of the biggest question mark I had for the longest time with regards to the Church’s perspective stand on alcohol consumption. : )
Before coming to Singapore, I’m a member of Citylife Church in Melbourne, where I’ve served as a leader when the new code was ushered in. I had thought of enroling in SOT this year, and came across the code of honor which mentioned (the disapproval of) ‘alcoholism’. At that time, ‘alcoholism’ appeared ambiguous and subjective and in context of the local culture, where consumption of alcohol alone is often frown upon as a purely hedonistic activity.
Though I would have personally defined alcoholism as the abuse of alcohol having spent my formative years in Australia, where alcohol consumption is akin to a cultural activity and the local Church encourages moderation and wisdom in partaking. So to err on the side of caution while applying for SOT, feedback from Church members remained undecided as to how to ‘measure’ how much is too much, and so to take the hard approach to avoid it altogether, to which I’ve a lot respect for your Church members. :)
Knowing that I’ll return to my home Church in Melbourne after my work contract in Singapore ends, I’d think it’d be hypocritical of me to abstain from alcohol altogether for 5 months because I was attending SOT! Now I wish I’ve sought clarifications from the amazing Church leaders at CHC, which would have put me out of my dilemma quite immediately back then! Refreshing read from the perspective of the Church’s founder. :) Thanks for also inviting my pastor, Rev Mark Conner, back for FOP, l’m looking forward!
Abundant blessings!
Hi Pastor,
Thanks for sharing in-depth well referenced topic on drinking. Would like to know more about another controversal topic ‘fengshui’ in other words furniture placement harmony, something like that.Wonder if this topic has been explored in the Christian world?
Pastor.
You are solid. Though is quite “cheem’=hard.
But mostly I understand.
Sometime when I look at others how spiritual are they, I thought they are powerful ready, but when come to your teaching of all these theology stuff, you are simply so awesome man!
Michael Jeffrey
Yes pst, i agree to your points in the article. Such clear explaination. Thanks Pst.
Hi Pastor, your post has been really helpful. Could you also do a blog on smoking? Would like to know more about this topic from a Christian and bible standing. Thanks.
Dear Pastert Kong,
thanks for guidance and instruction in setting up our memory to avoid touching and drinking beer and wine….so sinful things is not allowed to enter our body……..
you are the giver of all spiritual grace…
best regards
yin
Hi Pastor,
Thank you for the comprehensive lesson on drinking from God’s Word! I previously lived in Europe and understand cultures that drink wine like some of us drink water. I am, however, still somewhat concerned about the issue mainly because for some, this may open a door for the enemy to get a foot in. In the end, if a Christian is truly walking in the Spirit, he/she will know his/her drinking limits or when to discontinue drinking altogether.
All the best,
M. Stigger
Dear Pastor Kong,
I agree what u say. From my understanding, moderate consumption of red wine does improve blood circulation. I believe moderation and balance is the key to everything, including wine drinking.
Thank God for you to be so open about drinking alcohol, despite you not drinking.
Hi Pst,
Really and eye opener. I always knew about the ”rules” of drinking but this time, it really opened up my insight about drinking to new levels.
Thanks for your blog. It has been a blessing. :)
DesmonD
hmm…thanks….for the in depth knowledge of the topic….now i hv the keys to tell my non christian friends that drinking in moderation is jus ok……cheers
hi Pastor!its amazing coz this week my coleags invted me 2 go out 4 a drink and i was agitated coz i didnt know wat 2 do. now i know. thanks 4 sharing this! :)
Hey Pastor,
Thanks for sharing this message, it clears many of my doubts. =)
Hey Pastor,
I’ve been asking this question for a long time and i finally got my answer. Thank you for sharing this. =)
In the Philippines, there seems to be a difference between beer and wine. To many, wine is a more acceptable drink than beer.
Also, our youth below eighteen are not allowed to drink alcoholic beverages.
There seems now to be a “social context” of drinking. And therefore, Romans 14:21-23.
Pastor, i found ur website through my Pastors tweeter! and on this day i was trying to explain this to aclose friend who not long ago got saved, but still struggles to say no to very much alchol, this was defenitliy an answer from God!! i know it is co’s my Spirit is calm and happy with these answers.
Thank You
wow. i have never thought it that way…i always drank wine little but never saw it this way
real christians should avoid and depart dinking alcoholic beverages, allowing and giving consent to drinking can be deceiving , regrets comes on the latter part .especially to young people and young profs. ROMANS 12 : 1 -2 ROM 13 : 13
if anyone cannot accept this… YOU HAVE A SERIOUS PROBLEM…. I love this Pastor. Something that i was asking myself for a VERY long time.. Thanks for the clear explaination.. Cannot wait for your next blog entry.. Take care pastor and God bless.
@PATRICK…
Come on bro… Ps.Kong hee’s also a human…can be wrong also..
im totally agree with Sonia!
Sonia on May 2nd, 2009 10:42 pm
I’d say when it comes to ‘drinking’ or alcohol there is a difference between brewing beer and fermenting fruit. A glass of red wine a day for adults could be reasonable because let’s face it alcohol along with protein, fats and carbohydrates is a natural by-product in our bodies, but a beer a day for a teenager is probably not so healthy.
‘…The ancient Mesopotamians and Sumerians were brewing as early as 10,000 BC. However, clay tablets, with a recipe for beer, from approximately the year 6,000 B.C., in Babylonia, is the first documented evidence of beer making. This recipe utilized underbaked bread made from germinated barley. ‘
http://www.botany.hawaii.edu/faculty/wong/BOT135/Lect14.htm
Celebrating the Eucharist you get a choice of wine or grape juice. It’s really a lifestyle choice as well, some people want to aspire to keep their body holy, the same way some priests don’t marry. Ethanol is a psychoactive drug, I learnt from studying molecular biology it does copious damage to your brain cells. Anyone in chemistry can make it but pure ethanol is digusting, it has to be ‘dirty’ for actual taste and goodness knows what impurities they add to it to make it tasty. I just don’t want that in my body, same way I don’t want MSG or Genetically Modified Foods as eventual parts of my DNA.
When I travel overseas I usually stay at affordable hostels, the best ones I noticed are owned by Muslims because Islam strictly prohibit alcohol on the premise and I end up having peaceful sleeps without the romp, bustle of drunk backpackers. I think it’s a real shame that perhaps Falala Hotel for the same price is more clean and safe than YMCA.
I’d say both camps have a legitimate argument, I’m probably more with John the Baptist when it comes to wine. I’ve seen the damage ethanol can do to young people today, under-age binge drinking, kids with the money to purchase alcohol, proliferation of pubs, pub crawl etc. etc. When it comes to spiritual matters such as celebrating the body of Christ, now that we have the Holy Spirit who can makes us feel drunk, is there a real need for alcohol?
Having said that I’d say it is a lifestyle choice and once in a while at a work party someone will pop a bubbly of champagne and you don’t wanna end up the anal party pooper because how on earth do you bring people to Christ with camel-hair garment on, eating locusts and wild honey? Where does one even get ‘wild’ honey from? Actually some may disagree with me there, there might be some cultures in the world today who embrace shagedelic men wearing camel-hair.. like Hollywood.
For me personally I don’t drink but I do have a holiday house near the vineyards so I may indulge myself to a glass occasionally but I don’t believe it should be supported as an ok thing by the church because I don’t think alcohol has much relevance today in terms of spiritual matters. I’m sure Jesus’ point was not about the legitimacy of alcohol itself but a demonstration of His blood cleansing us from sin etc. etc. I do believe we have an obligation to keep our bodies holy and the Holy Spirit should lead us to decide whether we should drink or not.
wOw!!!! Great post Pastor. Now i can tell my friends about Christians consuming alcohol.
Pastor do you drink, how would you advise a young person who has believed all along that drinking is a sin and to be avoided, are suggesting that it is perfectly scriptural to drink knowing the number of drinking related violence occuring daily, chaya.
FIRST—I agree with Pastor Kong about the point of what the Bible is really saying here. I am pleased with the truthfulness and thoughtful preparation that went into this message.
SECOND– There is a reason some believers do not indulge in alcohol. For me it is twofold:
1)It is how I was raised…it is in my “heart”…in my conscience.
“For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.”–1 John 3:20
2) It is more important for me to consider how my brother in Christ may be affected by my actions, even if they are not wrong but only wrong to him:
1Cor chapter 8:
9Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak. 10For if anyone with a weak conscience sees you who have this knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, won’t he be emboldened to eat what has been sacrificed to idols? 11So this weak brother, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. 12When you sin against your brothers in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. 13Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him to fall.
…so…I say to you that you must not let your liberty cause your fellow believers to stumble.
Consider the weaker brother before you indulge.
Hi Pastor Kong Hee
Thank you for your messages.
Praise God
Sign of God’s blessing: Abundant wine was considered a sign of blessing and prosperity from God, not something to be shunned.
Thank God
I think as in touch and taste the blessing of God in my life
Righteous offering to God:
I think as Giving Thanks to God
Enjoyment: Psalms 104:15 says that God gives His people “wine that makes glad the heart of man.” Ecclesiastes 9:7 says, “Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart; for God has already accepted your works.” Wine was always considered a source of joy, one of the good things created for people (Judges 9:13; 2 Sam. 13:28; Esther 1:10; Eccl. 2:3; 10:19; Is. 24:11; Zech. 10:7).
I think there is Joy In the Lord, God’s acceptance.
Dancing, Singing and Praising God
Worship God
Jesus Himself drank wine: “The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’” (Matt. 11:18-19). To be accused of being a winebibber, Jesus obviously drank alcoholic wine. And He permitted the use of wine in festivities like the wedding of Cana (John 2:1-11). In fact, His first miracle was to turn water into wine. Jesus even used the imagery of fermented wine to describe His teaching as “new wine” (Matt. 9:17).
I think the realistic of Jesus’s Miracles
God is Real, God Is Good
I can see so many wines at the Suprmarkets, so manny brands, which 1 to choose.
thx for sharing pastor! great msg!
if wine became a problem to you do not take it even during the communion.,Same thing with money…Money is not wrong but the love of money is the root of all evil.Wine is not wrong only people who drink and use it in a wrong way.
How to use the wine in a right way..
1. Use it on communion
2.Use it for health reason if your are sickly and need some anti-oxidant and as prescribe by a doctor.
I prefer to support the Idea of Pastor Kong Hee
No need to drink,God gives the New Wine!! Ask for more of Him and be filled with the Holy Spirit not a high only He can give.
People you are missing out on the fullness of the Holy Spirit where you fly and are HIGH on Him. Shame on us for thinking that any type of drinking,even in moderation would ever come close to giving satisfaction or fulfilling us.
Don’t miss God and the revival we are in, ask for MORE OF HIM and LESS OF US.
come on people, pastor is so right about this.
During the Lord’s Supper, Jesus turned the water into WINE.
If drinking is wrong He could’ve turned the water into RIBENA instead, couldn’t He?
DRINKING
“But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death” (Revelation 21:8).
“But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea” (Matthew 18:6).
“And be not drunk with wine, wherein in excess; but be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18).
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise” (Proverbs 20:1).
“Who have woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder” (Proverbs 23:29-32).
“Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!” (Isaiah 5:11).
“Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink” (Isaiah 5:22).
“Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of E’phra-im, whose glorious beauty is a fading flower, which are on the head of the fat valleys of them that are overcome with wine!” (Isaiah 28:1).
“But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment” (Isaiah 28:7).
“Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that putteth thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!” (Habakkuk 2:15-17).
“Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, not extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God” (1 Corinthians 6:10).
“Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:21).
First and foremost, I want to state that I am against any and all use of alcohol. Now, as I write this, I am fully aware that there is going to be a reaction (either verbally or within the heart) among some of you reading this in respect to my strong feelings against alcohol. Believe me, I personally do know of many Christians who are also “sipping saints” (it may cost me my relationship with them, but I will in essence, prefer to please my Heavenly Father, knowing that I may come short at times). Yes, if you are one of those “sipping saints” that I am talking to, I want you to know that you might become “slipping saints”. You are treading on dangerous ground in the light of the Word of God (please read all the passages of Scripture that I have given above). I want to deal with the topic of drinking under these themes: SELF-INDULGENCE ATTITUDE, EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL ON SOCIETY, ETERNAL JUDGMENT OF THE DRUNKARD, “…BUT JESUS TURNED THE WATER INTO WINE” and THE CHRISTIAN (FINANCIAL) STEWARDSHIP AND ACCOUNTABILITY.
* SELF-INDULGENCE ATTITUDE
Yes, I want to say this emphatically: Every God-fearing Christian must choose to renounce drinking because drinking constitutes the act of selfishness and self-indulgence. I know I am being blunt but I want to direct you to examine yourself in light of God’s Word where Jesus said, “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depths of the sea” (Matthew 18:6). Now, do consider this seriously: There are many people that are watching our daily lives and as such, the stakes are simply far too high to risk offending and stumbling them. I believe that there is still a narrow way for us Christians and it is imperative that we walk it (read Matthew 7:13-14)!
* EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL ON SOCIETY
The effects of alcohol on society are disturbing. Alcohol is, directly or indirectly, the cause for problems such as automobile fatalities, suicides, child abuse, home violence, crimes, broken homes, murders, starvation, career failures, broken marriages and alcohol-related diseases. Yes, these are the terrible ravages of alcohol and whenever a Christian takes a drink, he is in essence, enticing weakness to overcome him or her (when he or she is supposed to be an overcomer through the Lord in the living of the Christian faith).
* ETERNAL JUDGMENT OF THE DRUNKARD
The Bible speaks of hell as the eternal destiny of the drunken in 1 Corinthians 6:10, Galatians 5:19 and Revelation 21:8 (in Revelation 21:8, the word “sorcery” has reference to both drug use and abuse). Alright, you may ask, “But what about drinking in moderation?” Let me give you an illustration: Suppose it requires X litres of wine (or beer or whiskey or distilled spirits or whatever) to make a person drunk, it must then follow that one-tenth of X litres of wine makes him or her “one-tenth” drunk. Also, do you not realize that many drunkards started out as “moderate” drinkers? As Christians, can we dare “tempt” God by tiptoeing about the edges of His mercy and forbearance? And in light of eternity, I think we are “tampering” the grace of God whenever we indulge in drinking.
* “ …BUT JESUS TURNED THE WATER INTO WINE” (with reference to John 2:1-11).
It is unthinkable, in my opinion, to believe that Jesus was turning water into the type of wine that will make one drunk. Actually, here are the real facts: Wine in Biblical times can mean either fermented or unfermented wine. In the case of Jesus’ first miracle, there are sufficient Scriptural and scientific proofs to believe that Jesus did not create fermented wine. Instead, the wine that is mentioned in John chapter 2 was a pure, fresh, sweet grape juice, which is, if you like, unfermented wine. Today, I realize that many people (sad to say, even Christian authors and ministers) confuse the word “wine” as it was used in the Bible. In the context of our day and age, I will admit that the word “wine” refers largely (or even entirely) to the fermented and intoxicating type of wine. However, according to a reliable Biblical translator, I learnt that fermented wine in Bible times was the least common of all wines. Now, the word “good wine” as recorded in John 2:10 is another strong evident to believe that it was the pure, unfermented juice of the grape and that it does not contain any drugged or fermented substance (that leads to intoxication). Also, you must realize that only the pure, unfermented juice of the grape can be considered as “good”. Fermented wine, on the other hand, is grape juice that decay had taken place and decay is the work of bacteria. Besides the reasons given above, I feel that it is appropriate to also examine another often-confused idea relevant to the wine-drinking issue and it is this: Did the Lord Jesus Christ use intoxicated wine at the Lord’s Supper (or Eucharist or Holy Communion)?” The answer is: No. What I am about to say may come as a surprise to some of you but you need to know this: The Bible never uses the word “wine” when it comes to Lord’s Supper. I realize that one of man’s greatest problems (even among Christians) is to unconsciously add to or subtract from God’s Word. This is not only unfortunate, it is not right. Turning to the infallible Word of God in Matthew 26:27-29, Mark 14:23-25, Luke 22:17-20 and 1 Corinthians 11:25, we read of words such as “fruit of the vine”, “took the cup”, “drink ye all of it”, “This cup is the new testament”, etc. Now, the truth is this: There is no mention of wine in all these passages. You see, alcohol would not picture the blood of Jesus or the Lord’s body. Therefore, I believe what I have stated all along are reasons enough (Scripturally) for Christians to avoid using fermented and intoxicated wine for the Lord’s Supper (or any other occasion, for that matter).
* THE CHRISTIAN (FINANCIAL) STEWARDSHIP AND ACCOUNTABILITY
For reference, you may want to read Matthew 6:19, Matthew 25:14-30, Luke 12:16-21, John 9:4 and Philippians 4:5.
I’ve sensed the Presence of God and I believe the Lord gave me this subject to write on. With reference to the parable of the talents (read Matthew 25), I believe that as Christians, God has entrusted us with the responsibility of stewardship. When we realize that everything we are and we have is actually not ours but instead God’s investment in us, we then begin to feel the seriousness of this responsibility. You know, serving the Lord demands our lives and our possessions to where we are able to submit to Him and say, “Neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth cost me nothing”. Any congregation can easily sing, “I Am Thine, O Lord” or “He is Lord”, but unfortunately, not all of them realize the significance of what they are actually singing. When it comes to their daily lives, they are more interested in having their way. I realize that in our materialistic society, Christians are also not immune to falling prey to idolatry. To be sure, we do not bow down to any graven image but I am persuaded to believe that these “idols” can affect us subtly if we are not alert. Perhaps, we Christians should really search our hearts and ask, “Does God come before my career? … my education? … my financial interests? … my pursuits? … my influence? … my pleasures? … or even my Christian ministry and service (when human abilities are placed above the need to depend on God)?” Now, please do not misunderstand my implications here. I realize that more than ever, we need Christians that are able to be successful in their education and in their careers, but these pursuits must be subject to “doing the will of the Father” in their lives (read Psalm 40:8, Matthew 7:21, John 5:30, Matthew 6:19-21, Mark 8:36 and Luke 9:25). Also, God’s Word tells us, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). Without fear of contradiction, I believe it is God’s intention for His people to enjoy prosperity if we will go according to His way and follow His Scriptural plan. Knowing that God sees the heart and the inner man, I must affirm that the true blessings and rewards of God (spiritual, physical and material) will only follow those who are willing to adhere totally with His plan, principles and commandments. You see, God is not really impressed with a person who gives to Him (through tithes and offerings) only to amass greater wealth for his or her self-profit. Yes, we certainly believe that God will keep His promise concerning tithing according to Malachi 3:10 and Luke 6:38 (I think many Christians can testify to this!), but whenever it is used as a “talisman” to attain self-centred material gain, then it is not pleasing to God. The need to give to God out of pure joy and with the right motives cannot be overemphasized. The Word of God tells us, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:7-10). Indeed, I believe in a consistent all-rounded Christian lifestyle of stewardship (in other words, the surrender of our total beings unto God); but for this moment, I want to zero in on the financial aspect of our stewardship. I realize that the subject of money is not pleasant, but from Scripture (read Malachi 3:8-10, 1 Corinthians 16:2 and Luke 6:38), I have to say that it is important that we support churches or organizations that are fulfilling the work of God through tithing and offering. Lately, I believe the Lord dealt with me rather stringently concerning the task of fulfilling the Great Commission (read Mark 16:15-18) and I want to say that money is a tool that can be used tremendously in this respect. Dear brother or sister in Christ, I want to ask you a question (and at the same time, I am asking myself), “When you realize that there is a great need to tell the world about Jesus Christ, are you willing then to give up these unwholesome activities (such as party-going, movie-going and alcohol drinking) which incidentally, waste quite a fraction of your good time and money and use it to support evangelism and missions instead?”
I do have a feeling that some “wanton” Christians will regret not doing all that they can while on earth to wisely invest their time and money for God when He beckons them home! Christian friend, if you read this message and you know that God is speaking to you this day, I pray that you will do your best to fulfill the responsibility of your stewardship so that in that day, you will hear Him say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:23).
The key word Pastor stated was MODERATION. Drinking can cause you to get drunk; money can cause greed. Anything when not indulged in in moderation is a bad thing! I agree with Pastor; drinking is not a bad thing, as long as you control yourself and don’t get drunk. Pastor clearly stated that getting drunk was obviously a sin. Drinking wine, especially for health reasons, without getting drunk, isn’t.
But anyway, I think we shouldn’t blindly follow what religious leaders / even Pastor says. The most important word to follow is the one that comes from your heart / the Holy Spirit in you. If you grew up in a very conservative church and have never felt that drinking was acceptable, then don’t drink because your heart says it is wrong. If anyone remembers the 50 Questions and Answers booklet we were given, Q11 What is sin? states “Paul said that ‘whatever is not from faith is sin. In other words, when in doubt, don’t. There are many areas where we have to ask ourselves if what we are doing is right or wrong. TO ONE PERSON SOMETHING MAY BE RIGHT, WHILE TO SOMEONE ELSE, IT MIGHT NOT BE.”
I don’t drink and I don’t really think it’s very right, but that doesn’t mean I should judge others or impose my views on people who think it’s okay to drink in moderation. I feel my role as a friend is to ensure my friend doesn’t get drunk, or drinks when he’s/she’s actually trying to get rid of the addiction.
My personal take is one may choose to drink but not excessively to the point of addiction. You may take even plain water excessively to a point of addiction, you are also doing harm to your own body. Taiwan had a case a few years back that this guy drinks 2-liters of water every hour till the point his kidney gave way.
I am not much of a drinker but do drink little during weddings or chilling out with friends. I think if taken in moderation and actions after consumption does not bring harm to self and others around you. Most importantly is to follow the law of your country and do not break it (eg. Singapore’s tagline is “If you drink, don’t drive. If you drive, don’t drink.) Simple as that.
Hi pastor Kong,
Alcohol is the most deadliest poison we have in Sweden,
It kills people, divides families, it is the number one reason for
all murders, accidents in traffic and so on.
Many pastors in Sweden have recently agreed to zero tolerance of alcohol, you are also welcome to join the team,
thomas_lahti@hotmail.com
Only Excessive alcohol will cause bad influence to the society.
Culture is important, moderation is the key.
Pastor also said that if drinking wine can cause someone to stumble, then do not drink it. It is not to be indulged in if it will lead others to drink against their conscience (Rom. 14:19-21).
Everything we do, we should do it out of love. Then all things will come together for the good.
sgod88
I think God of Islam hates drinking.. and God of Bible approves it .. but not approves to be overlimit.. every one has his own measure of doing things.. I think its holier than thou game if we take bible to prove that we should not drink.. Nothing goes in will corrupt you.. what ever comes out will corrupt you.. .. I agree to Pastor’s view.. but as usual i think we will divide and give way to a new denomination .. Bible never says dont drink.. if it was such a serious issue.. it might have been in 10 commandments..
Jesus will never give up something which He does not like.. He gave up wine till He joins with us .. and I believe Jesus always gave His choices sacrifices for us… It can not be the case that He hates fruit of vine which He says is His blood alike and than uses His disciples as an excuse to leave it.. He truely likes it that’s why He promised that He will have it again when He will be with us..
May be you can have it with the Lord.. or practice it here on the earth on moderation so that you dont puke on table..
Matthew 26:26-29
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”
27Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. 28This is my blood of the[a] covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father’s kingdom.”
Do we love our neighbour as ourself .. or do we condemn our brothers for taking wine.. we are back where Jesus started …
No matter what we are doin, right from day One, as long as whatever we do post no harm to anything including yourself, anything is possible (I guess all adults know how to differentiate between good and bad. If you dun, try to do some reseach about it before proceeding with it. Being Impulsive can be harmful to yourself too. If you know what I mean.). ALcohols? Drink in moderations… Live life to the fullest. Surely a fulfilling life including enjoyment. Know your limitations, the risks involved and decide whether you want it or not.. Bottomline? Do whatever you want, as long as you dun harm anyone/anything including yourself… I gotta emphasize that cuz’ that is important and a ’sins-free’ person will listen and adhere to that…
A person will only be punished if he/she is committed for a crime. If He/she behaves and lives as a good person, there is no way he/she will be punished. Because Justice favours the Good. :)
Anyway, regardless of what you believe in, as long as in this life you maintain what a Good person should do, you will be rewarded, may not in monetary values, but in terms of afterlife, or your overall well-being.
If you ever see a Good person being punished for no apparent reason, just because he/she do not agree with certain things., then you think again about the one who punish him/her. Life is that simple, Good Guys will eventually win, even though you may not see it coming that quickly. He may remain in a poor family, but sooner or later, other aspects of his life will be improved, WILL BE. Because of the chain reaction he had triggered by performing good deeds.
Like to raise certain issues:
i. I do not think that just because the bible has a “favourable” attitude towards wine, one can say that drinking in moderation is ok is totally wrong. This is too simplistic. Whilst you give a case for wine, please find me a case where scripture encourages drinking of beer and other fermented spirits (these drinks were def around in bible times) and in clubs and pubs for that matter…
ii. Paul was telling Timothy to have a little wine for the stomach – for medicinal purposes definately not for social purposes…
iii. And in ancient Jewish culture – it was the norm for the king or the rich to have many wives and concubines? So just becuase wine drinking was part of othe ancient Jewish culture does not mean we can translate it to present time…
I think this is a great post Ps Kong. Moderation and not making it a habitual thing is the point.
We should not take this and say it is ok to drink regularly or use it to say it is ok to regularly go have drink for business or pleasure.
In Proverbs 20:1 “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whoever goes astray by it is not wise”
Can anyone share why people like to drink wine? For health like Timothy who had some medical conditions? Or for socializing? Or to show one is “in-the trend”?
Moderation is the key word, but most alcoholic started with moderate drinking…it all start with the first wine/beer. And most people do not know their limit because they have never got drunk before. And before you know it…you are high and than drunk. When one is high, you are unable to judge and decide properly. Hence, drinking more ending in drunkness
The appreciation of the taste of wine is acquired. Most people trying wine for the first time do not really like the taste; just like smoking..the first puff will caused someone to choked…lol
Therefore, why do young people these day like to drink? P-culture or peer pressure? trying to impress? If for health reasons, I think we have more ways to choose from then New testament days, to keep our body healthy rather than using wine.
This is my first time log in to read the blog by Pastor Kong Hee.
I thank God and praise the Lord for pastor Kong Hee:
> for openly address sensitive issues** facing many sincere christians of different generations: **tattoo; drinking; masturbation; plastic surgery; and racial & religious harmony;
> for his comprehensive research and systematically rationalise his views and advice, and relevant scriptures references; and
> for communicating the wisdom of God throguh his balance and common sense approach.
THANK YOU Pastor Kong Hee! Praise the Lord!
I was always troubled by all those cannot do this & that in the early 80,s years However when I grew up, I learn from the LORD himself that there are actually very few things that He said we cannot do ( no idols worship, no stealing, no adultery). The things we are allowed to do are plenty. Adam in the Garden of Eden can have all the fruits. He just cannot have the One Forbidden Fruit. But don’t blame Adam for eating that. If that day one of us were in the Garden, we would have done the same sin. Jesus still have to come and die for us.
For me it’s a lifestyle choice. For me I prefer not to drink simply because I don’t want to. For me, ‘what’s so joyful about drinking’, I tasted it before – ‘urgh don’t like the taste’ – is it so joyful to drink? Nah I don’t think so. I prefer not to even if people all around me in a social gathering are. Furthermore it is also the way I was brought up. My father drinks, and the negative impacts early in my childhood taught me drinking is bad. So drinking is bad for me.
If you can drink in moderation, enjoy and not cause trouble or shame to yourself or others then it’s ok for you. If not, just stop. I don’t think there’s a need for much theological debate here. It’s just a lifestyle choice.
In any case, there’s a bible verse that goes ‘in everything you do, do it to the glory of the Lord’. Forgot what verse but this is what I think too.
Robenz on May 2nd, 2009 5:57 pm “Great Pastor!!! I have never met pastors”
Because you did not yet met Bro. Eli Soriano of THE OLD PATH..
you may watch him in http://www.untvweb.com
I think You have made a great mistake in your life because of writing this thing!
How can you drink and not be get drunk? When you starting drink a little you become drunk and even a policman stopped you in your car. It is clear.
It is better for you not to write: drink or not drink, smoke or not smoke… But save people who go to hell!