Wine has been a part of human history for thousands of years.
It has been used for celebrations, religious ceremonies, and everyday meals.
But what does the Bible say about drinking wine?
Some people believe the Bible supports drinking in moderation, while others think it strictly forbids it.
The truth is, Scripture speaks about wine in both positive and negative ways.
The Bible acknowledges wine as a blessing but also warns about the dangers of overindulgence.
By exploring what the Bible says about wine, believers can better understand its role and how to approach it with wisdom.
Wine in Biblical Times
Wine was common in the ancient world.
Unlike today, where clean drinking water is easily available, people in biblical times often drank wine because it was safer than untreated water.
Wine was a staple at meals and was frequently used in celebrations, including weddings and religious feasts.
The fermentation process also made wine a practical way to preserve grapes, ensuring that people had a drinkable liquid year-round.
Wine was typically diluted with water, making it less intoxicating than modern alcoholic beverages.
It was used as a sign of hospitality, a symbol of joy, and even as a medicinal aid.
Understanding this historical context helps clarify why the Bible speaks about wine in both a positive and a cautionary way.
Wine as a Blessing from God
The Bible often describes wine as a gift from God.
In Psalm 104:14-15, it says, “He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts.”
This passage suggests that wine, like food and oil, is something that brings joy and sustains life.
Proverbs 3:9-10 connects wine to God’s blessings: “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
In these verses, abundant wine is seen as a sign of God’s favor and provision.
Wine was also an important part of worship and offerings in the Old Testament.
Numbers 15:5-7 describes how wine was included in sacrifices to God, showing that it had spiritual significance.
Even Jesus used wine in one of His greatest miracles.
In John 2:1-11, Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding in Cana.
This was His first recorded miracle, demonstrating both His divine power and His blessing over the celebration.
If drinking wine were inherently sinful, Jesus would not have performed this miracle.
Instead, He provided high-quality wine, showing that it can be part of joyous occasions.
The Danger of Drunkenness
While the Bible speaks positively about wine, it also gives strong warnings against drunkenness.
Ephesians 5:18 states, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery.
Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
Drunkenness is seen as a loss of self-control, leading to reckless behavior and sin.
Proverbs 20:1 warns, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”
This verse highlights the danger of letting alcohol control a person’s actions.
Drinking too much can lead to poor decisions, broken relationships, and spiritual distance from God.
One of the clearest examples of wine leading to disaster is found in Genesis 9:20-21.
After the flood, Noah planted a vineyard and drank too much wine, becoming drunk and exposing himself in his tent.
This moment led to shame and family conflict, showing the dangers of excess.
Another tragic example is found in Proverbs 23:29-35, which paints a vivid picture of the effects of alcohol abuse:
“Who has woe?
Who has sorrow?
Who has strife?
Who has complaints?
Who has needless bruises?
Who has bloodshot eyes?
Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.
Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly!
In the end, it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.”
These verses show how wine can seem appealing but ultimately lead to pain, regret, and addiction.
Paul’s Teaching on Wine
The apostle Paul addressed the topic of wine multiple times.
In 1 Timothy 5:23, Paul tells Timothy, “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.”
This suggests that wine had medicinal benefits and could be used responsibly.
However, Paul also gave clear warnings about drunkenness.
In 1 Corinthians 6:10, he lists drunkards among those who “will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Similarly, in Galatians 5:19-21, drunkenness is included in a list of sinful behaviors that separate people from God.
Paul emphasized that while wine itself is not sinful, drinking in excess can lead to destructive behavior.
The Role of Wine in Communion
Wine plays a significant role in Christian worship through communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper.
During the Last Supper, Jesus used wine as a symbol of His blood.
In Matthew 26:27-28, Jesus took the cup and said, “Drink from it, all of you.
This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
This moment established wine as a representation of Christ’s sacrifice, making it an important part of Christian tradition.
Many churches use grape juice instead of wine in modern times, but the symbolism remains the same.
The use of wine in communion reminds believers of Jesus’ suffering, redemption, and the new covenant He established.
Should Christians Drink Wine Today?
The Bible does not outright forbid drinking wine, but it does set clear guidelines.
Drinking in moderation is not sinful, but drunkenness is condemned.
Romans 14:21 offers an important principle: “It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother or sister to fall.”
This verse highlights the importance of considering how drinking affects others.
If drinking wine causes another believer to stumble in their faith, it may be best to avoid it.
Some Christians choose to abstain from alcohol entirely, while others drink responsibly.
Each believer should seek God’s wisdom, examine their own heart, and make a decision based on their faith and circumstances.
The Importance of Self-Control
One of the biggest lessons the Bible teaches about wine is the importance of self-control.
Galatians 5:22-23 lists self-control as one of the fruits of the Spirit.
A Christian’s life should be marked by discipline and wisdom in all things, including what they consume.
Drinking wine in moderation requires self-control and awareness of one’s limits.
If a person struggles with addiction or finds that drinking leads to poor choices, it is wise to avoid alcohol completely.
First Corinthians 10:31 gives a simple but powerful rule: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
This means that even in something as simple as drinking wine, the goal should always be to honor God.
Final Thoughts
The Bible presents a balanced view of wine.
It acknowledges that wine can be a blessing, a symbol of joy, and even part of worship.
But it also warns against the dangers of drunkenness, addiction, and reckless behavior.
Drinking wine is not inherently sinful, but it must be approached with wisdom, self-control, and consideration for others.
Each believer must decide whether drinking aligns with their faith and lifestyle.
Regardless of personal choices, the most important thing is to glorify God in all things, keeping Him at the center of every decision.
With wisdom and discernment, Christians can navigate this topic in a way that honors God and reflects His love.