Brief Summary
The video addresses the controversial question of whether drinking alcohol is a sin for Christians. It clarifies that the Bible does not explicitly forbid drinking in moderation, but strongly warns against drunkenness and addiction. The key points include:
- Moderate drinking is not inherently sinful, but drunkenness is.
- The potential for alcohol to control a person makes it sinful.
- Christians should consider how their drinking habits affect others.
- Using alcohol as an emotional crutch or substitute for God is sinful.
- Wisdom, self-control, and love should guide decisions about alcohol consumption.
What Does the Bible Say?
The Bible does not explicitly prohibit drinking alcohol. Jesus turned water into wine, and Paul advised Timothy to drink wine for his stomach ailments. However, the Bible strongly warns against drunkenness, as stated in Ephesians 5:18, which advises against being drunk with wine and encourages being filled with the Spirit instead. Billy Graham noted that while moderate drinking isn't necessarily a sin, addiction and anything that controls one's life besides God is. Therefore, the distinction lies between use and abuse.
Who or What Controls You?
The Christian life is about relationship with God, not just rules. 1 Corinthians 6:12 states that not everything beneficial, and one should not be mastered by anything. The critical question is whether alcohol controls you, taking precedence over prayer or studying the word of God. If alcohol becomes an idol, it is a sin. Like many things, alcohol can become a trap if not handled carefully. It's important to reflect on why one is drinking and whether it enhances their walk with Christ, and if they can stop at any time.
What About Being a Good Example?
One's influence on others is important. Romans 14:21 advises against actions that could cause a brother or sister to stumble. Even if one can drink without sinning, their actions might lead someone else into addiction or temptation. Billy Graham emphasized considering how actions affect others, as personal liberty could be a stumbling block for someone else. The question is not just whether something is okay for oneself, but whether it could harm another person's walk with God, reflecting spiritual maturity.
What Happens When Drinking Becomes a Crutch?
Alcohol can become an emotional escape, stress reliever, or comfort for some, but scripture indicates that only God should be our refuge. Psalm 46:1 states that "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Turning to alcohol instead of prayer, worship, or wise counsel means it has become a substitute for God, which is a heart issue. Billy Graham warned that anything put before God, even seemingly harmless things, can become a sin.
Is It a Sin or Not?
Drinking alcohol in moderation is not inherently a sin, but drunkenness is always sinful. If alcohol controls you, causes others to stumble, or becomes a crutch, it becomes sinful. Christians are called to live in wisdom, self-control, and love. 1 Peter 5:8 reminds believers to be alert and of sober mind, as the devil seeks someone to devour. Alcohol can open the door to danger if one is not careful. It's important to assess whether drinking helps one grow in Christ or pulls them away. The question is not just whether one can drink, but whether it is wise, glorifies God, and avoids harming one's witness. God protects our purpose, and decisions should be made with a clear conscience, godly wisdom, and love for others.
