If I had a thesis statement, it would be this: “I abstain from alcohol in all forms, including the Lord’s Supper and social occasions, based on my conviction from Scripture that it is not applicable in today’s culture.” That’s my stance. You don’t have to agree, but that’s my conviction. I intend to defend this position from Scripture. I won’t force my beliefs on other faithful followers of God who may not share this exact conviction.
The Cultural Norm for Alcoholic Consumption Among Christians
Many Christians assume that wine was consumed in the Bible, leading them to automatically follow suit. This type of freedom is generally found, but not limited to, reformed Baptists and Presbyterians. Wine is served at the Lord’s Table, and some use grape juice as well. However, this isn’t limited to the observance of the Lord’s Table.
The freedom to consume wine, and mainly alcohol, is prevalent in almost every social setting. Weddings, showers, parties, dinners out, and social gatherings are just a few examples. It seems as if there’s an inability to abstain in any setting, and any reason to consume alcohol is readily accepted. I recall 1 Corinthians 8:9: “But take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.”
My Reasoning and Conviction for Being a Teetotaler
Let me first clarify that I won’t separate over this issue. I have a firm conviction on why I abstain, and that’s my position based on my understanding of Scripture. Here are my reasons:
Is the wine today the same as in biblical times? The short answer is no. Modern wines have an Alcohol by Volume (ABV) of 12%-15%, while in biblical times, wine had an ABV of about 7% before being diluted. It was customary to mix or dilute wine, typically in a ratio of 3 parts water to 1 part wine, which brought the ABV down to approximately 3%.
Are modern alcoholic drinks biblical? No. In biblical times, strong drinks like beers, whiskeys, and mixed drinks were avoided. The distillation process, which involves boiling fermented liquid to capture concentrated alcohol vapors, wasn’t used until the 8th to 12th centuries. In fact, modern whiskeys, with their 40% ABV, would qualify as drinks to avoid biblically. These modern drinks are much more intoxicating and easier to consume.
Is it necessary? We live in a sanitary world with clean water, even in Africa, where bottled water is often available. In most Western and modern nations, the risk of infection and sickness from water is rare. We have sports drinks, teas, and other safe beverages. The necessity of wine in times of unclean water and sickness was indeed necessary. Wine is known to have disinfectant properties. It was safer to drink wine in biblical times, and it always came with warnings about the dangers of excessive consumption. Therefore, claiming that alcohol is necessary to consume today is not applicable.
Can it harm my testimony? Christians are called to be the light of the world and a reflection of holiness and redemption. As Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light shine before men.” So, the question we must ask is, does our consumption of alcohol at parties, events, or dinners bring people’s minds to a redeemed person? If a Christian cannot gather without alcohol being involved, what does that say? In today’s culture, can this damage one’s credibility, especially regarding self-control?
Is there a potential for drunkenness? Given the higher ABV and purposeful nature of modern alcohols, yes. There’s caution in every area of life where the Christian lacks self-control. Consider areas like soft drinks or food consumption. However, in the case of modern wines and alcohol, the potential for drunkenness is high.
Is it potentially harmful? In 2024, 11,904 people lost their lives due to impaired driving. The World Health Organization (WHO) has unequivocally declared that no amount of alcohol is safe. Alcohol is a well-known carcinogen that can cause liver and brain damage. Even small amounts of alcohol can be risky. While red wine contains antioxidants, consuming a lethal amount would be necessary for any potential benefit.
Is it a hindrance? Many Christians are recovering alcoholics, and being around others who drink excessively may trigger a “relapse.” Unfortunately, many individuals who embrace a carefree attitude towards alcohol abuse it intentionally, often in the face of those who hold different viewpoints. Displaying one’s freedom is not a sign of spiritual maturity.
In my opinion, and I would advise others to do the same, I believe it’s best to avoid the intoxicating effects of modern-day wine and alcohol. The risks involved are too great, and the potential harm to my testimony and personal growth is too significant.