Alcohol: Is it a sin for Pastors and Christians to consume ?

While some feel that it could be considered a sin others disagree. The argument for the latter is often based on the fact that the Bible does not actually ban Christians from drinking.

The fact that Jesus Christ’s first miracle was turning water into wine is also used as proof that God is not against drinking.

Still, many churches and Christians remain divided over this issue.

What Catholics, other churches say about drinking

The Roman Catholic church believes that drinking is okay as long as it is done in moderation. Thus, they believe that drinking excessively is a sin.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church, Paragraph 2290 reads, “The virtue of temperance disposes us to avoid every kind of excess: the abuse of food, alcohol, tobacco, or medicine. Those incur grave guilt who, by drunkenness or a love of speed, endanger their own and others’ safety on the road, at sea, or in the air.“

Anglicans, Lutherans, Jehovah’s Witnesses also support this moderation view on drinking.

The Seventh-day Adventists have a different approach. They recommend avoiding alcohol completely.

The Brotherhood of the Cross and Star have this same stance.

ALSO READ: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints kicks against drinking

What the Bible says about drinking

The Bible does not offer a clear-cut answer to this debate. Ecclesiastes 9:7 says, “Go, eat your bread with enjoyment, and drink your wine with a merry heart; for God has long ago approved what you do.”

Deuteronomy 14:26 also says, “spend the money for whatever you wish — oxen, sheep, wine, strong drink, or whatever you desire. And you shall eat there in the presence of the Lord your God, you and your household rejoicing together.”

On the other hand, St. Paul is seen on several occasions speaking out against drunkenness.

Ephesians 5:18 says, “Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit.”

Romans 13:13 adds, “let us live honorably as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy.”

To drink or not to drink?

Looks like we are right where we started. So, should Christians and pastors be allowed to drink?

Max Lucado, a best-selling Christian author, and writer and preacher says, “One thing for sure, I have never heard anyone say, ‘A beer makes me feel more Christlike… The fact of the matter is this: People don’t associate beer with Christian behavior.”

As we have earlier noted, the Bible doesn’t say, “Thou shalt not drink,” but what does drinking actually do for us?

Does it make us better Christians, does it lead others to Christ? (See 1 Corinthians 10:23, 24).

Drinking may not be a sin but most would agree that it is definitely not something worth encouraging among in the church.

What do you think?