The Bible speaks directly and seriously about the issue of drunkenness. It warns against the excess consumption of alcohol, labeling it as behavior that leads to unwise decisions, moral compromise, and ultimately, estrangement from God’s will. Scripture does not forbid drinking alcohol but strongly cautions against its abuse. The overarching message is one of moderation, self-control, and the pursuit of wisdom. Christians are called to live lives that honor God, avoiding behaviors that can lead to sin or harm to themselves and others. The Bible emphasizes that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are to glorify God in all that we do, including our choices about alcohol consumption.
Curious about the biblical stance on drinking and drunkenness? Dive deeper to understand how Scripture guides us to live wisely and honor God in all aspects of life.
What Does the Bible Say About Drunkards?
The Bible addresses the topic of drunkenness with both warnings and teachings that reflect God’s view on the matter. Throughout Scripture, drunkenness is depicted as a behavior that leads to various forms of sin and folly, distancing individuals from God and their community. The Bible’s stance on alcohol is not about prohibition but rather about the dangers of its excess and the importance of self-control and wisdom.
In the Old Testament, numerous passages caution against the perils of drunkenness, associating it with calamity and moral failure. Proverbs, for example, contains several verses that describe wine as a mocker and beer as a brawler, warning that those led astray by alcohol are not wise. The narratives of Noah and Lot highlight the personal and social disasters that can follow excessive drinking.
The New Testament continues this theme, explicitly listing drunkenness among the behaviors that can prevent individuals from inheriting the kingdom of God. Paul’s letters to the early churches often include admonitions against drunkenness, linking it to debauchery and advising believers to be filled with the Spirit instead. This contrast underscores the choice between indulging in fleshly desires and pursuing a life led by the Spirit.
Moreover, the New Testament encourages believers to be mindful of their influence on others, advising against behaviors that could cause a brother or sister in Christ to stumble. This principle extends to the consumption of alcohol, suggesting that even if one has the liberty to drink, they should consider the impact of their actions on the faith of others.
Jesus’ own interactions with wine, most notably at the wedding at Cana and the Last Supper, indicate that alcohol, in itself, is not sinful. However, the consistent biblical message is one of moderation, self-control, and the pursuit of things that lead to spiritual edification and community well-being.
In essence, the Bible’s teachings on drunkenness are part of a broader call to live a life that honors God, marked by wisdom, self-control, and love for others. It’s a reminder that our actions and choices, including those regarding alcohol, should reflect our commitment to God and our desire to live in a way that brings glory to Him.
Bible Verses About Drunkards
- Ephesians 5:18 – “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” Paul contrasts the folly of drunkenness with the wisdom of being led by the Holy Spirit.
- Proverbs 20:1 – “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” This proverb highlights the dangers of alcohol in leading people away from wisdom.
- 1 Corinthians 6:10 – “Nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” Paul lists drunkenness among behaviors incompatible with God’s kingdom.
- Galatians 5:21 – “And envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” This passage warns against lifestyles marked by excess, including drunkenness.
- Proverbs 23:20-21 – “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” Solomon advises against excess and its consequences.
- Luke 21:34 – “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.” Jesus warns against being distracted by debauchery, including drunkenness, in anticipation of His return.
- 1 Peter 4:3 – “For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry.” Peter encourages believers to live differently than their past indulgent lifestyles.
- Isaiah 5:11 – “Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.” Isaiah pronounces woe on those who pursue drunkenness.
- Romans 13:13 – “Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.” Paul calls for a life marked by decency and self-control.
- Proverbs 31:4-5 – “It is not for kings, Lemuel—it is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.” This advice to a king underscores the importance of sobriety for wise and just leadership.
In summary, the Bible’s teachings on drunkenness serve as a caution against the excesses and consequences of alcohol consumption. Through wisdom, moderation, and self-control, believers are encouraged to live lives that honor God, avoiding behaviors that lead to spiritual and moral compromise. By choosing to be filled with the Spirit rather than indulging in drunkenness, we can lead lives that are fruitful, responsible, and reflective of our faith in Christ.