DrugsDrugs!!DrugsDrugs!!
The Number One Drug The Number One Drug Problem in the Country!Problem in the Country!
What is It?What is It?How Do We Treat It?How Do We Treat It?
Copyright by Norman L. Geisler 2004Copyright by Norman L. Geisler 2004
The Number One Drug!The Number One Drug!Its Deadly Effects:Its Deadly Effects: It kills 200,000 people a year (1 every 3 min.)!It kills 200,000 people a year (1 every 3 min.)! It is used 30 times more than other drugsIt is used 30 times more than other drugs Almost half of Americans use itAlmost half of Americans use it Some 20 million Americans are addicted to itSome 20 million Americans are addicted to it Almost 70 % of 21 year olds use itAlmost 70 % of 21 year olds use it It costs society $166 billion a yearIt costs society $166 billion a year It is a key factor in 48% of all robberiesIt is a key factor in 48% of all robberies It is a key factor in 54% of all murdersIt is a key factor in 54% of all murders It is a key factor in 62% of all assaults It is a key factor in 62% of all assaults It is a key factor in 68% of manslaughtersIt is a key factor in 68% of manslaughters It is probably involved in 90% of all auto accidentsIt is probably involved in 90% of all auto accidents
Its Deadly Effects:Its Deadly Effects: It kills 200,000 people a year (1 every 3 min.)!It kills 200,000 people a year (1 every 3 min.)! It is used 30 times more than other drugsIt is used 30 times more than other drugs Almost half of Americans use itAlmost half of Americans use it Some 20 million Americans are addicted to itSome 20 million Americans are addicted to it Almost 70 % of 21 year olds use itAlmost 70 % of 21 year olds use it It costs society $166 billion a yearIt costs society $166 billion a year It is a key factor in 48% of all robberiesIt is a key factor in 48% of all robberies It is a key factor in 54% of all murdersIt is a key factor in 54% of all murders It is a key factor in 62% of all assaults It is a key factor in 62% of all assaults It is a key factor in 68% of manslaughtersIt is a key factor in 68% of manslaughters It is probably involved in 90% of all auto accidentsIt is probably involved in 90% of all auto accidents
The The NumberNumber One Drug! One Drug! What is it?What is it?
Mariuana? No.Mariuana? No.
Heroine? No.Heroine? No.
Cocaine? No.Cocaine? No.
Alcohol? Alcohol? Yes!Yes!
Mariuana? No.Mariuana? No.
Heroine? No.Heroine? No.
Cocaine? No.Cocaine? No.
Alcohol? Alcohol? Yes!Yes!
TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK?TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK?A Sober Look at the QuestionA Sober Look at the Question
TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK?TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK?A Sober Look at the QuestionA Sober Look at the Question
I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? III. Was new wine fermented? III. Was new wine fermented? IV. Was fermented wine used as a IV. Was fermented wine used as a
beverage in the Bible? beverage in the Bible? V. Does the Bible demand total V. Does the Bible demand total
abstinence from wine? abstinence from wine? VI Does Wine have other good usages VI Does Wine have other good usages
in the Bible? in the Bible?
I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? III. Was new wine fermented? III. Was new wine fermented? IV. Was fermented wine used as a IV. Was fermented wine used as a
beverage in the Bible? beverage in the Bible? V. Does the Bible demand total V. Does the Bible demand total
abstinence from wine? abstinence from wine? VI Does Wine have other good usages VI Does Wine have other good usages
in the Bible? in the Bible?
TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK?TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK?TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK?TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK?
VII. Are wine and strong drink the same? VII. Are wine and strong drink the same?
VIII. What are the effects of strong drink VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? on the users?
IX. Should believers abstain from strong IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? drink?
X. Is regular beer and wine used today X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? strong drink?
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
VII. Are wine and strong drink the same? VII. Are wine and strong drink the same?
VIII. What are the effects of strong drink VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? on the users?
IX. Should believers abstain from strong IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? drink?
X. Is regular beer and wine used today X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? strong drink?
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
Rom.Rom. 14:14:14:14: “As one who is in the Lord “As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that Jesus, I am fully convinced that no food is no food is unclean in itselfunclean in itself. But if anyone regards . But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is something as unclean, then for him it is unclean.” unclean.”
1 Tim. 4:4:1 Tim. 4:4: “For “For everything God created is everything God created is good,good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.”received with thanksgiving.”
Rom.Rom. 14:14:14:14: “As one who is in the Lord “As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that Jesus, I am fully convinced that no food is no food is unclean in itselfunclean in itself. But if anyone regards . But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is something as unclean, then for him it is unclean.” unclean.”
1 Tim. 4:4:1 Tim. 4:4: “For “For everything God created is everything God created is good,good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.”received with thanksgiving.”
I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? No.No.
I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? No.No.
II. Did biblical wine have alcohol II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? Yesin it? Yes..
II. Did biblical wine have alcohol II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? Yesin it? Yes..
1 Cor. 11:21:1 Cor. 11:21: “For as you eat, each of you “For as you eat, each of you goes ahead without waiting for anybody goes ahead without waiting for anybody else. One remains hungry, else. One remains hungry, another gets another gets drunk.” drunk.”
1 Cor. 11:21:1 Cor. 11:21: “For as you eat, each of you “For as you eat, each of you goes ahead without waiting for anybody goes ahead without waiting for anybody else. One remains hungry, else. One remains hungry, another gets another gets drunk.” drunk.”
III. Was new wine fermented? III. Was new wine fermented? Yes.Yes.
Hos. 4:10-11:Hos. 4:10-11: “They will eat but not have “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and and new [wine], which take away the new [wine], which take away the understanding.understanding.””
Hos. 4:10-11:Hos. 4:10-11: “They will eat but not have “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and and new [wine], which take away the new [wine], which take away the understanding.understanding.””
III. Was new wine fermented? III. Was new wine fermented? Yes.Yes.
Hos. 4:10-11:Hos. 4:10-11: “They will eat but not have “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and new, which take away the understanding.”and new, which take away the understanding.”
Acts 2:13:Acts 2:13: “Others, mocking said, `“Others, mocking said, `They are full They are full
of new wine.”of new wine.”
Note:Note: Wine begins fermenting the first day in Wine begins fermenting the first day in Palestine (“Wine” in ISBE).Palestine (“Wine” in ISBE).
Hos. 4:10-11:Hos. 4:10-11: “They will eat but not have “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and new, which take away the understanding.”and new, which take away the understanding.”
Acts 2:13:Acts 2:13: “Others, mocking said, `“Others, mocking said, `They are full They are full
of new wine.”of new wine.”
Note:Note: Wine begins fermenting the first day in Wine begins fermenting the first day in Palestine (“Wine” in ISBE).Palestine (“Wine” in ISBE).
IV.IV. Was fermented wine used as Was fermented wine used as a beverage in the Bible? Yes.a beverage in the Bible? Yes.
IV.IV. Was fermented wine used as Was fermented wine used as a beverage in the Bible? Yes.a beverage in the Bible? Yes.
A. It was used atA. It was used at weddings weddings (Jn. 2:9-10). (Jn. 2:9-10). B. It was used at the B. It was used at the Passover mealsPassover meals
(Mt. 26:17, 27).(Mt. 26:17, 27). C. It was used at the C. It was used at the Lord's SupperLord's Supper
(1 Cor. 11:25).(1 Cor. 11:25). D. It was used atD. It was used at regular meals regular meals
(Gen. 14:18; Jud. 19:19).(Gen. 14:18; Jud. 19:19).
A. It was used atA. It was used at weddings weddings (Jn. 2:9-10). (Jn. 2:9-10). B. It was used at the B. It was used at the Passover mealsPassover meals
(Mt. 26:17, 27).(Mt. 26:17, 27). C. It was used at the C. It was used at the Lord's SupperLord's Supper
(1 Cor. 11:25).(1 Cor. 11:25). D. It was used atD. It was used at regular meals regular meals
(Gen. 14:18; Jud. 19:19).(Gen. 14:18; Jud. 19:19).
V.V. Does the Bible demand total Does the Bible demand total abstinence from wine? No.abstinence from wine? No.
V.V. Does the Bible demand total Does the Bible demand total abstinence from wine? No.abstinence from wine? No.
A. Paul told Timothy toA. Paul told Timothy to take a "little" wine take a "little" wine““Stop drinking only water, and use a Stop drinking only water, and use a little little
winewine because of your stomach and because of your stomach and your your frequent illnesses”frequent illnesses” (1 Tim. 5:23).(1 Tim. 5:23).
B. Leaders should B. Leaders should not drink “much wine”not drink “much wine”
““Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in respect, sincere, not indulging in muchmuch winewine, , and not pursuing dishonest and not pursuing dishonest gain” gain” (1 Tim. 3:8).(1 Tim. 3:8).
A. Paul told Timothy toA. Paul told Timothy to take a "little" wine take a "little" wine““Stop drinking only water, and use a Stop drinking only water, and use a little little
winewine because of your stomach and because of your stomach and your your frequent illnesses”frequent illnesses” (1 Tim. 5:23).(1 Tim. 5:23).
B. Leaders should B. Leaders should not drink “much wine”not drink “much wine”
““Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in respect, sincere, not indulging in muchmuch winewine, , and not pursuing dishonest and not pursuing dishonest gain” gain” (1 Tim. 3:8).(1 Tim. 3:8).
VI. Does Wine have other good VI. Does Wine have other good usages in the Bible? Yes.usages in the Bible? Yes.
VI. Does Wine have other good VI. Does Wine have other good usages in the Bible? Yes.usages in the Bible? Yes.
A.A. Proverbs said to use it as Proverbs said to use it as a sedativea sedative (Prov. 31:6): (Prov. 31:6):““Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are
in anguish.”in anguish.” B.B. The OT said it was used The OT said it was used toto revive the faintrevive the faint (2 Sam. (2 Sam.
16:2):16:2):““The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride on, The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride on,
the bread and fruit are for the men to eat, and the wine the bread and fruit are for the men to eat, and the wine is to refresh those who become exhausted in the desert.”is to refresh those who become exhausted in the desert.”
C. Luke said it was used as C. Luke said it was used as anan antisepticantiseptic (Lk. 10:34): (Lk. 10:34): ““He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring
on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him.”donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him.”
D. Paul said to use it as D. Paul said to use it as a laxativea laxative (1 Tim. 5:23):(1 Tim. 5:23): ““Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach [intestines] and your because of your stomach [intestines] and your frequent illnesses.”frequent illnesses.”
A.A. Proverbs said to use it as Proverbs said to use it as a sedativea sedative (Prov. 31:6): (Prov. 31:6):““Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are
in anguish.”in anguish.” B.B. The OT said it was used The OT said it was used toto revive the faintrevive the faint (2 Sam. (2 Sam.
16:2):16:2):““The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride on, The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride on,
the bread and fruit are for the men to eat, and the wine the bread and fruit are for the men to eat, and the wine is to refresh those who become exhausted in the desert.”is to refresh those who become exhausted in the desert.”
C. Luke said it was used as C. Luke said it was used as anan antisepticantiseptic (Lk. 10:34): (Lk. 10:34): ““He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring
on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him.”donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him.”
D. Paul said to use it as D. Paul said to use it as a laxativea laxative (1 Tim. 5:23):(1 Tim. 5:23): ““Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach [intestines] and your because of your stomach [intestines] and your frequent illnesses.”frequent illnesses.”
VII. Are wine and strong drink VII. Are wine and strong drink the same? No.the same? No.
A. Strong drink has more alcohol in it.A. Strong drink has more alcohol in it. B. Strong drink (B. Strong drink (shekar (OT)shekar (OT)) differs from ) differs from
wine (wine (tiroshtirosh (OT) (OT); oinos (NT); oinos (NT)) or new ) or new wine (wine (Yayin (OT); gleukos (NT)Yayin (OT); gleukos (NT)). ).
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
A.A. The physical effects: The physical effects: 1. 1. It bites like a snakeIt bites like a snake (Prov. 23:32). (Prov. 23:32).
““In the end it bites like a snake and In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.” poisons like a viper.”
2. 2. It causes sicknessIt causes sickness (Jer. 25:27 cf. (Jer. 25:27 cf. 51:39).51:39).
““Then tell them, ‘This is what the LORD Then tell them, ‘This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Almighty, the God of Israel, says:
Drink, Drink, get drunk and vomit, and fall to get drunk and vomit, and fall to rise no rise no more because of the sword I will more because of the sword I will send send among you.’” among you.’”
A.A. The physical effects: The physical effects: 1. 1. It bites like a snakeIt bites like a snake (Prov. 23:32). (Prov. 23:32).
““In the end it bites like a snake and In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.” poisons like a viper.”
2. 2. It causes sicknessIt causes sickness (Jer. 25:27 cf. (Jer. 25:27 cf. 51:39).51:39).
““Then tell them, ‘This is what the LORD Then tell them, ‘This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Almighty, the God of Israel, says:
Drink, Drink, get drunk and vomit, and fall to get drunk and vomit, and fall to rise no rise no more because of the sword I will more because of the sword I will send send among you.’” among you.’”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
A.A. The physical effects:The physical effects: 3. 3. It causes emotional and physical harmIt causes emotional and physical harm (Prov. 23:29-30). (Prov. 23:29-30). ““Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who
has has strife? Who has complaints? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go Those who linger over wine, who go to to sample bowls of mixed wine.” sample bowls of mixed wine.”
4. 4. It induces a stuporIt induces a stupor (Isa. 19:14 cf. 28:7-8). (Isa. 19:14 cf. 28:7-8). “The LORD has poured into them a spirit of “The LORD has poured into them a spirit of dizziness; they make Egypt stagger in all dizziness; they make Egypt stagger in all
that that she does, as a drunkard staggers around she does, as a drunkard staggers around in in his vomit.” his vomit.”
A.A. The physical effects:The physical effects: 3. 3. It causes emotional and physical harmIt causes emotional and physical harm (Prov. 23:29-30). (Prov. 23:29-30). ““Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who
has has strife? Who has complaints? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go Those who linger over wine, who go to to sample bowls of mixed wine.” sample bowls of mixed wine.”
4. 4. It induces a stuporIt induces a stupor (Isa. 19:14 cf. 28:7-8). (Isa. 19:14 cf. 28:7-8). “The LORD has poured into them a spirit of “The LORD has poured into them a spirit of dizziness; they make Egypt stagger in all dizziness; they make Egypt stagger in all
that that she does, as a drunkard staggers around she does, as a drunkard staggers around in in his vomit.” his vomit.”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
A.A. The physical effects: The physical effects: 5. 5. It causes one to vomitIt causes one to vomit (Jer. 48:26). (Jer. 48:26). ““Make her drunk, for she has defied Make her drunk, for she has defied
the LORD. Let Moab wallow in her the LORD. Let Moab wallow in her vomit; let her be an object of ridicule.” vomit; let her be an object of ridicule.”
6. 6. It causes one to staggerIt causes one to stagger (Job 12:25 (Job 12:25 cf. cf. Isa. 19:14). Isa. 19:14).
““They grope in darkness with no They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like light; he makes them stagger like
drunkards.” drunkards.”
A.A. The physical effects: The physical effects: 5. 5. It causes one to vomitIt causes one to vomit (Jer. 48:26). (Jer. 48:26). ““Make her drunk, for she has defied Make her drunk, for she has defied
the LORD. Let Moab wallow in her the LORD. Let Moab wallow in her vomit; let her be an object of ridicule.” vomit; let her be an object of ridicule.”
6. 6. It causes one to staggerIt causes one to stagger (Job 12:25 (Job 12:25 cf. cf. Isa. 19:14). Isa. 19:14).
““They grope in darkness with no They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like light; he makes them stagger like
drunkards.” drunkards.”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
A.A. The physical effects: The physical effects:
7. 7. It numbs ones feelingsIt numbs ones feelings (Prov. (Prov. 23:30,35). 23:30,35).
““Do not gaze at wine when it is Do not gaze at wine when it is red....`They hit me,’ you will say, red....`They hit me,’ you will say,
“but I’m not hurt! They beat me, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t but I don’t feel it! When will I feel it! When will I
wake wake up so I can find another up so I can find another drink?’”drink?’”
A.A. The physical effects: The physical effects:
7. 7. It numbs ones feelingsIt numbs ones feelings (Prov. (Prov. 23:30,35). 23:30,35).
““Do not gaze at wine when it is Do not gaze at wine when it is red....`They hit me,’ you will say, red....`They hit me,’ you will say,
“but I’m not hurt! They beat me, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t but I don’t feel it! When will I feel it! When will I
wake wake up so I can find another up so I can find another drink?’”drink?’”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
B.B. The psychological effects: The psychological effects: 8. 8. It feeds self-centerednessIt feeds self-centeredness (Hab. 2:5). (Hab. 2:5).
“Indeed, wine betrays him; he is arrogant and “Indeed, wine betrays him; he is arrogant and never at rest. Because he [“the proud”-vs. 4] never at rest. Because he [“the proud”-vs. 4]
is as greedy as the grave and like death is is as greedy as the grave and like death is never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the nations and takes captive all the peoples.” nations and takes captive all the peoples.” 9. 9. It causes sorrowIt causes sorrow (Prov. 23:29-30). (Prov. 23:29-30). ““Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” sample bowls of mixed wine.”
B.B. The psychological effects: The psychological effects: 8. 8. It feeds self-centerednessIt feeds self-centeredness (Hab. 2:5). (Hab. 2:5).
“Indeed, wine betrays him; he is arrogant and “Indeed, wine betrays him; he is arrogant and never at rest. Because he [“the proud”-vs. 4] never at rest. Because he [“the proud”-vs. 4]
is as greedy as the grave and like death is is as greedy as the grave and like death is never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the nations and takes captive all the peoples.” nations and takes captive all the peoples.” 9. 9. It causes sorrowIt causes sorrow (Prov. 23:29-30). (Prov. 23:29-30). ““Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” sample bowls of mixed wine.”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
B.B. The psychological effects:The psychological effects: 10. 10. It produces guiltIt produces guilt (Isa. 24:20). (Isa. 24:20). “ “The earth reels like a drunkard, it sways lThe earth reels like a drunkard, it sways l like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it
is is the guilt of its rebellion that it falls— the guilt of its rebellion that it falls—never to never to rise again.” rise again.”
11. 11. It causes depressionIt causes depression (Isa. 24:9-11 cf. 16:9-10).(Isa. 24:9-11 cf. 16:9-10). “ “No longer do they drink wine with a song; the No longer do they drink wine with a song; the
beer is bitter to its drinkers. The ruined city beer is bitter to its drinkers. The ruined city lies desolate; the entrance to every lies desolate; the entrance to every
house is house is barred. In the streets they cry out for barred. In the streets they cry out for wine; all wine; all joy turns to gloom, all gaiety is joy turns to gloom, all gaiety is banished from banished from the earth.” the earth.”
B.B. The psychological effects:The psychological effects: 10. 10. It produces guiltIt produces guilt (Isa. 24:20). (Isa. 24:20). “ “The earth reels like a drunkard, it sways lThe earth reels like a drunkard, it sways l like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it
is is the guilt of its rebellion that it falls— the guilt of its rebellion that it falls—never to never to rise again.” rise again.”
11. 11. It causes depressionIt causes depression (Isa. 24:9-11 cf. 16:9-10).(Isa. 24:9-11 cf. 16:9-10). “ “No longer do they drink wine with a song; the No longer do they drink wine with a song; the
beer is bitter to its drinkers. The ruined city beer is bitter to its drinkers. The ruined city lies desolate; the entrance to every lies desolate; the entrance to every
house is house is barred. In the streets they cry out for barred. In the streets they cry out for wine; all wine; all joy turns to gloom, all gaiety is joy turns to gloom, all gaiety is banished from banished from the earth.” the earth.”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
B.B. The psychological effects:The psychological effects:
12.12. It causes deliriumIt causes delirium (Prov. 23:31-33). (Prov. 23:31-33).““Do not gaze at wine when it is red, Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it goes down smoothly! In the end it
bites bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights and Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine confusing things.your mind imagine confusing things.””
13.13. It can cause insanityIt can cause insanity (Jer. 51:7). (Jer. 51:7).““Babylon was a gold cup in the Babylon was a gold cup in the
LORD’s LORD’s hand; she made the whole hand; she made the whole earth drunk. earth drunk. The nations drank her The nations drank her wine; therefore wine; therefore they have now gone they have now gone mad.” mad.”
B.B. The psychological effects:The psychological effects:
12.12. It causes deliriumIt causes delirium (Prov. 23:31-33). (Prov. 23:31-33).““Do not gaze at wine when it is red, Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it goes down smoothly! In the end it
bites bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights and Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine confusing things.your mind imagine confusing things.””
13.13. It can cause insanityIt can cause insanity (Jer. 51:7). (Jer. 51:7).““Babylon was a gold cup in the Babylon was a gold cup in the
LORD’s LORD’s hand; she made the whole hand; she made the whole earth drunk. earth drunk. The nations drank her The nations drank her wine; therefore wine; therefore they have now gone they have now gone mad.” mad.”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
C.C. The social effects:The social effects:
14.14. It leads to fightingIt leads to fighting (Prov. 2O:1). (Prov. 2O:1).““Wine is a mocker and beer a Wine is a mocker and beer a
brawler; brawler; whoever is led astray by them whoever is led astray by them is not is not wise.” wise.”
15.15. It leads to lazinessIt leads to laziness (Prov. 23:21 cf. (Prov. 23:21 cf. Zeph. 1:12).Zeph. 1:12).““For drunkards and gluttons become For drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” rags.”
C.C. The social effects:The social effects:
14.14. It leads to fightingIt leads to fighting (Prov. 2O:1). (Prov. 2O:1).““Wine is a mocker and beer a Wine is a mocker and beer a
brawler; brawler; whoever is led astray by them whoever is led astray by them is not is not wise.” wise.”
15.15. It leads to lazinessIt leads to laziness (Prov. 23:21 cf. (Prov. 23:21 cf. Zeph. 1:12).Zeph. 1:12).““For drunkards and gluttons become For drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” rags.”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
C.C. The social effects:The social effects:
16.16. It leads to povertyIt leads to poverty (Prov. 21:17; (Prov. 21:17; 23:20-21). 23:20-21).
““He who loves pleasure will become He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.”never be rich.”
17.17. It makes one vulnerable to his It makes one vulnerable to his enemiesenemies (2 Sam.13:28). (2 Sam.13:28).““Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! When Amnon is in high spirits from When Amnon is in high spirits from drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be afraid.”afraid.”
C.C. The social effects:The social effects:
16.16. It leads to povertyIt leads to poverty (Prov. 21:17; (Prov. 21:17; 23:20-21). 23:20-21).
““He who loves pleasure will become He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.”never be rich.”
17.17. It makes one vulnerable to his It makes one vulnerable to his enemiesenemies (2 Sam.13:28). (2 Sam.13:28).““Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! When Amnon is in high spirits from When Amnon is in high spirits from drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be afraid.”afraid.”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
D.D. The moral effects:The moral effects:
18.18. It perverts truth and justiceIt perverts truth and justice (Isa (Isa 28:7 28:7 cf. Hos. 4:11).cf. Hos. 4:11).
““And these also stagger from wine And these also stagger from wine and and reel from beer: Priests and prophets reel from beer: Priests and prophets
stagger from beer and are befuddled stagger from beer and are befuddled with wine; they reel from beer, they with wine; they reel from beer, they stagger when seeing visions, they stagger when seeing visions, they stumble when rendering decisions.”stumble when rendering decisions.”
D.D. The moral effects:The moral effects:
18.18. It perverts truth and justiceIt perverts truth and justice (Isa (Isa 28:7 28:7 cf. Hos. 4:11).cf. Hos. 4:11).
““And these also stagger from wine And these also stagger from wine and and reel from beer: Priests and prophets reel from beer: Priests and prophets
stagger from beer and are befuddled stagger from beer and are befuddled with wine; they reel from beer, they with wine; they reel from beer, they stagger when seeing visions, they stagger when seeing visions, they stumble when rendering decisions.”stumble when rendering decisions.”
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
VIII. What are the effects of VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? strong drink on the users?
D.D. The moral effects:The moral effects:
I 9.I 9. It leads to sexual immoralityIt leads to sexual immorality (cf. (cf. Gen. Gen. 19:33 cf. 9:20-24).19:33 cf. 9:20-24).
““That night they got their father [Lot] That night they got their father [Lot] to to drink wine, and the older daughter drink wine, and the older daughter went went in and lay with him. He was not in and lay with him. He was not aware aware of it when she lay down or of it when she lay down or when she when she got up.”got up.”
20. 20. It leads to other crimesIt leads to other crimes (Joel 3:3 cf. (Joel 3:3 cf. Hab. 2:15).Hab. 2:15).““They cast lots for my people and They cast lots for my people and traded boys for prostitutes; they sold traded boys for prostitutes; they sold girls for wine that they might drink.”girls for wine that they might drink.”
D.D. The moral effects:The moral effects:
I 9.I 9. It leads to sexual immoralityIt leads to sexual immorality (cf. (cf. Gen. Gen. 19:33 cf. 9:20-24).19:33 cf. 9:20-24).
““That night they got their father [Lot] That night they got their father [Lot] to to drink wine, and the older daughter drink wine, and the older daughter went went in and lay with him. He was not in and lay with him. He was not aware aware of it when she lay down or of it when she lay down or when she when she got up.”got up.”
20. 20. It leads to other crimesIt leads to other crimes (Joel 3:3 cf. (Joel 3:3 cf. Hab. 2:15).Hab. 2:15).““They cast lots for my people and They cast lots for my people and traded boys for prostitutes; they sold traded boys for prostitutes; they sold girls for wine that they might drink.”girls for wine that they might drink.”
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
A.A. It was forbidden for OT priestsIt was forbidden for OT priests (Lev. 10:8- (Lev. 10:8-9):9):
““Then the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your Then the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your sons are not to drink wine or other fermented sons are not to drink wine or other fermented
drink whenever you go into the Tent of drink whenever you go into the Tent of Meeting, or you will die. This is a Meeting, or you will die. This is a
lasting lasting ordinance for the ordinance for the generations to come.”generations to come.”
B.B. It was forbidden for NazaritesIt was forbidden for Nazarites (Num. 6:3). (Num. 6:3).““He must abstain from wine and other He must abstain from wine and other
fermented drink and must not drink fermented drink and must not drink vinegar vinegar made from wine or from other made from wine or from other fermented drink. fermented drink. He must not drink grape juice or He must not drink grape juice or eat grapes or eat grapes or raisins.”raisins.”
A.A. It was forbidden for OT priestsIt was forbidden for OT priests (Lev. 10:8- (Lev. 10:8-9):9):
““Then the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your Then the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your sons are not to drink wine or other fermented sons are not to drink wine or other fermented
drink whenever you go into the Tent of drink whenever you go into the Tent of Meeting, or you will die. This is a Meeting, or you will die. This is a
lasting lasting ordinance for the ordinance for the generations to come.”generations to come.”
B.B. It was forbidden for NazaritesIt was forbidden for Nazarites (Num. 6:3). (Num. 6:3).““He must abstain from wine and other He must abstain from wine and other
fermented drink and must not drink fermented drink and must not drink vinegar vinegar made from wine or from other made from wine or from other fermented drink. fermented drink. He must not drink grape juice or He must not drink grape juice or eat grapes or eat grapes or raisins.”raisins.”
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
C. C. It was forbidden for kings and rulersIt was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5)(Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink
wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.”
C. C. It was forbidden for kings and rulersIt was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5)(Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink
wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.”
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
C. C. It was forbidden for kings and rulersIt was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5)(Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink
wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.”
D. D. It is forbidden for all personsIt is forbidden for all persons (Prov. 20:1). (Prov. 20:1). ““Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” astray by them is not wise.”
C. C. It was forbidden for kings and rulersIt was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5)(Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink
wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.”
D. D. It is forbidden for all personsIt is forbidden for all persons (Prov. 20:1). (Prov. 20:1). ““Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” astray by them is not wise.”
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
C. C. It was forbidden for kings and rulersIt was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5)(Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink
wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.”
D. D. It is forbidden for all personsIt is forbidden for all persons (Prov. 20:1). (Prov. 20:1). ““Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” astray by them is not wise.”
E. E. It brings God's woe on all who drinks itIt brings God's woe on all who drinks it (Isa. 5:11). (Isa. 5:11). ““Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.” inflamed with wine.”
C. C. It was forbidden for kings and rulersIt was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5)(Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink
wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.”
D. D. It is forbidden for all personsIt is forbidden for all persons (Prov. 20:1). (Prov. 20:1). ““Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” astray by them is not wise.”
E. E. It brings God's woe on all who drinks itIt brings God's woe on all who drinks it (Isa. 5:11). (Isa. 5:11). ““Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.” inflamed with wine.”
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
F.F. It makes one drunk which is a sinIt makes one drunk which is a sin (Rom. (Rom. 13:13). 13:13).
““Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual
immorality and debauchery, not in immorality and debauchery, not in dissension dissension and jealousy.”and jealousy.”
““Do you not know that the wicked will not Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of Godinherit the kingdom of God?? Do not Do not
be be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the nor the greedy greedy nor drunkardsnor drunkards nor nor slanderers nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God” (1Cor. kingdom of God” (1Cor. 6:9-10 cf. Gal. 5:19-6:9-10 cf. Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:18).21; Eph. 5:18).
F.F. It makes one drunk which is a sinIt makes one drunk which is a sin (Rom. (Rom. 13:13). 13:13).
““Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual
immorality and debauchery, not in immorality and debauchery, not in dissension dissension and jealousy.”and jealousy.”
““Do you not know that the wicked will not Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of Godinherit the kingdom of God?? Do not Do not
be be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the nor the greedy greedy nor drunkardsnor drunkards nor nor slanderers nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God” (1Cor. kingdom of God” (1Cor. 6:9-10 cf. Gal. 5:19-6:9-10 cf. Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:18).21; Eph. 5:18).
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
IX. Should believers abstain from IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yesstrong drink? Yes
G.G. It can cause another brother to stumbleIt can cause another brother to stumble (Rom. 14:21).(Rom. 14:21).
““It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do do anything else that will cause your brother to anything else that will cause your brother to
fall.” fall.”
G.G. It can cause another brother to stumbleIt can cause another brother to stumble (Rom. 14:21).(Rom. 14:21).
““It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do do anything else that will cause your brother to anything else that will cause your brother to
fall.” fall.”
X. Is regular beer and wine used X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? Yestoday strong drink? Yes
X. Is regular beer and wine used X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? Yestoday strong drink? Yes
A.A. Undiluted wine was "strong drink" in Bible times.Undiluted wine was "strong drink" in Bible times.Homer 20 to1 Alexis 4 to 1Homer 20 to1 Alexis 4 to 1Pliny 8 to 1 Diocles 2 to 1 Pliny 8 to 1 Diocles 2 to 1 Euenos 3 to 1 Ion 3 to 1Euenos 3 to 1 Ion 3 to 1Hesiod 3 to 1 1 to 1 was considered Hesiod 3 to 1 1 to 1 was considered
barbaricbarbaric (See Robert Stein "Wine-Drinking in NT (See Robert Stein "Wine-Drinking in NT Times." Times." CT, 6/20/75)CT, 6/20/75)
B.B. Jewish Wine was mixed with water.Jewish Wine was mixed with water.
Jewish Jewish GemaraGemara (Vol. 7, note 5) says: Wine “was not (Vol. 7, note 5) says: Wine “was not fit fit for drinking without first being diluted with water.” for drinking without first being diluted with water.”
2 Maccabees2 Maccabees: : “...it is harmful to drink wine alone, or, “...it is harmful to drink wine alone, or, again, to drink water alone, while wine mixed again, to drink water alone, while wine mixed
with water with water is sweet and delicious and enhances one’s is sweet and delicious and enhances one’s enjoyment....”enjoyment....” (2Mac. 15:39). (2Mac. 15:39).
A.A. Undiluted wine was "strong drink" in Bible times.Undiluted wine was "strong drink" in Bible times.Homer 20 to1 Alexis 4 to 1Homer 20 to1 Alexis 4 to 1Pliny 8 to 1 Diocles 2 to 1 Pliny 8 to 1 Diocles 2 to 1 Euenos 3 to 1 Ion 3 to 1Euenos 3 to 1 Ion 3 to 1Hesiod 3 to 1 1 to 1 was considered Hesiod 3 to 1 1 to 1 was considered
barbaricbarbaric (See Robert Stein "Wine-Drinking in NT (See Robert Stein "Wine-Drinking in NT Times." Times." CT, 6/20/75)CT, 6/20/75)
B.B. Jewish Wine was mixed with water.Jewish Wine was mixed with water.
Jewish Jewish GemaraGemara (Vol. 7, note 5) says: Wine “was not (Vol. 7, note 5) says: Wine “was not fit fit for drinking without first being diluted with water.” for drinking without first being diluted with water.”
2 Maccabees2 Maccabees: : “...it is harmful to drink wine alone, or, “...it is harmful to drink wine alone, or, again, to drink water alone, while wine mixed again, to drink water alone, while wine mixed
with water with water is sweet and delicious and enhances one’s is sweet and delicious and enhances one’s enjoyment....”enjoyment....” (2Mac. 15:39). (2Mac. 15:39).
X. Is regular beer and wine used X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? Yestoday strong drink? Yes
X. Is regular beer and wine used X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? Yestoday strong drink? Yes
C.C. One part of wine to just three parts of One part of wine to just three parts of water water is not intoxicating.is not intoxicating.
1. It takes 20 glasses of it to get drunk1. It takes 20 glasses of it to get drunk (That's three trips to the rest-room first!)(That's three trips to the rest-room first!)2. Used, as they did, in diluted forms with meals 2. Used, as they did, in diluted forms with meals
blunted its effects. blunted its effects.
D.D. Strong drink is forbidden for believers.Strong drink is forbidden for believers. 1. Today’s Beer and wine are strong drink by biblical 1. Today’s Beer and wine are strong drink by biblical
standards. standards. 2. The Bible forbids using strong drink as a 2. The Bible forbids using strong drink as a
beverage.beverage. 3. Therefore, the Bible forbids drinking beer or 3. Therefore, the Bible forbids drinking beer or
wine (or using any like or stronger drugs).wine (or using any like or stronger drugs).
C.C. One part of wine to just three parts of One part of wine to just three parts of water water is not intoxicating.is not intoxicating.
1. It takes 20 glasses of it to get drunk1. It takes 20 glasses of it to get drunk (That's three trips to the rest-room first!)(That's three trips to the rest-room first!)2. Used, as they did, in diluted forms with meals 2. Used, as they did, in diluted forms with meals
blunted its effects. blunted its effects.
D.D. Strong drink is forbidden for believers.Strong drink is forbidden for believers. 1. Today’s Beer and wine are strong drink by biblical 1. Today’s Beer and wine are strong drink by biblical
standards. standards. 2. The Bible forbids using strong drink as a 2. The Bible forbids using strong drink as a
beverage.beverage. 3. Therefore, the Bible forbids drinking beer or 3. Therefore, the Bible forbids drinking beer or
wine (or using any like or stronger drugs).wine (or using any like or stronger drugs).
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
AA.. Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven 1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven
was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. 2:3-14). 2:3-14).
AA.. Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven 1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven
was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. 2:3-14). 2:3-14).
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
AA.. Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven 1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven
was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. 2:3-14). 2:3-14). Answer:Answer:
a. This refers to a. This refers to foodsfoods, not, not drinks drinks. . b. Wine is not mentioned here as b. Wine is not mentioned here as
forbidden. forbidden. c. Even new wine was fermented c. Even new wine was fermented
(Hos. (Hos. 4:11).4:11). d. Jewish practice at Passover d. Jewish practice at Passover
was was fermented wine mixed fermented wine mixed with water (2 with water (2 Mac. 15:39).Mac. 15:39).
e. It caused drunkenness at e. It caused drunkenness at Communion Communion (1 Cor. 11:21).(1 Cor. 11:21).
AA.. Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven 1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven
was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. 2:3-14). 2:3-14). Answer:Answer:
a. This refers to a. This refers to foodsfoods, not, not drinks drinks. . b. Wine is not mentioned here as b. Wine is not mentioned here as
forbidden. forbidden. c. Even new wine was fermented c. Even new wine was fermented
(Hos. (Hos. 4:11).4:11). d. Jewish practice at Passover d. Jewish practice at Passover
was was fermented wine mixed fermented wine mixed with water (2 with water (2 Mac. 15:39).Mac. 15:39).
e. It caused drunkenness at e. It caused drunkenness at Communion Communion (1 Cor. 11:21).(1 Cor. 11:21).
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
AA.. Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.2. Some argue that "wine" (2. Some argue that "wine" (yayinyayin) is non-alcoholic, ) is non-alcoholic,
since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33). Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33).
AA.. Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.2. Some argue that "wine" (2. Some argue that "wine" (yayinyayin) is non-alcoholic, ) is non-alcoholic,
since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33). Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33).
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
AA.. Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.2. Some argue that "wine" (2. Some argue that "wine" (yayinyayin) is non-alcoholic, ) is non-alcoholic,
since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33). Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33).
Answer:Answer:a. These verses speak of the a. These verses speak of the source source
of of the wine from the press, not the wine from the press, not its present its present fermented fermented status status..
b. Hosea 4:11 (and Acts 2:13) says b. Hosea 4:11 (and Acts 2:13) says yayinyayin can intoxicate. can intoxicate.
AA.. Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented.2. Some argue that "wine" (2. Some argue that "wine" (yayinyayin) is non-alcoholic, ) is non-alcoholic,
since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33). Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33).
Answer:Answer:a. These verses speak of the a. These verses speak of the source source
of of the wine from the press, not the wine from the press, not its present its present fermented fermented status status..
b. Hosea 4:11 (and Acts 2:13) says b. Hosea 4:11 (and Acts 2:13) says yayinyayin can intoxicate. can intoxicate.
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
BB.. Objection based on Isaiah being against Objection based on Isaiah being against mixed wine and water.mixed wine and water.““Your silver has become dross, your choice Your silver has become dross, your choice
wine is diluted with water” (Isa. 1:22). wine is diluted with water” (Isa. 1:22).
Answer:Answer: This is not about literal wine mixing. This is not about literal wine mixing. It is a metaphor about their lives that had It is a metaphor about their lives that had
become diluted or adulterated.become diluted or adulterated.
BB.. Objection based on Isaiah being against Objection based on Isaiah being against mixed wine and water.mixed wine and water.““Your silver has become dross, your choice Your silver has become dross, your choice
wine is diluted with water” (Isa. 1:22). wine is diluted with water” (Isa. 1:22).
Answer:Answer: This is not about literal wine mixing. This is not about literal wine mixing. It is a metaphor about their lives that had It is a metaphor about their lives that had
become diluted or adulterated.become diluted or adulterated.
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
CC.. Objection that mixing wine is prohibited in Objection that mixing wine is prohibited in Proverbs 23:29, 30:Proverbs 23:29, 30:
““Who has woe?... Those who linger over Who has woe?... Those who linger over wine, wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.”
Answer:Answer: It is not referring to mixing wine with It is not referring to mixing wine with
water but with other alcoholic drinks. water but with other alcoholic drinks. This is This is evident from the fact that it “bites evident from the fact that it “bites like a serpent” like a serpent” (v. 32) when one mixes wines. (v. 32) when one mixes wines. This does not This does not happen when one mixes happen when one mixes wine with water.wine with water.
CC.. Objection that mixing wine is prohibited in Objection that mixing wine is prohibited in Proverbs 23:29, 30:Proverbs 23:29, 30:
““Who has woe?... Those who linger over Who has woe?... Those who linger over wine, wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.”
Answer:Answer: It is not referring to mixing wine with It is not referring to mixing wine with
water but with other alcoholic drinks. water but with other alcoholic drinks. This is This is evident from the fact that it “bites evident from the fact that it “bites like a serpent” like a serpent” (v. 32) when one mixes wines. (v. 32) when one mixes wines. This does not This does not happen when one mixes happen when one mixes wine with water.wine with water.
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
DD.. Objections that Paul said strong drink is Objections that Paul said strong drink is OK.OK.
1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23). 1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23).
DD.. Objections that Paul said strong drink is Objections that Paul said strong drink is OK.OK.
1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23). 1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23).
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
DD.. Objections that Paul said strong drink is Objections that Paul said strong drink is OK.OK.
1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23). 1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23).
Answer:Answer:a. It was not a. It was not strong drinkstrong drink but but diluted drink diluted drink..b. He said take a b. He said take a littlelittle, not a, not a lot lot..c. It was for c. It was for medicinalmedicinal, not , not recreationalrecreational, use., use.
d. He was told to hit the d. He was told to hit the medicine bottlemedicine bottle, not , not the the beer bottlebeer bottle..
e. It was used to e. It was used to be healthybe healthy, not to , not to feel happyfeel happy..f. It was use as af. It was use as a laxative, laxative, not a not a relaxative. relaxative.
DD.. Objections that Paul said strong drink is Objections that Paul said strong drink is OK.OK.
1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23). 1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23).
Answer:Answer:a. It was not a. It was not strong drinkstrong drink but but diluted drink diluted drink..b. He said take a b. He said take a littlelittle, not a, not a lot lot..c. It was for c. It was for medicinalmedicinal, not , not recreationalrecreational, use., use.
d. He was told to hit the d. He was told to hit the medicine bottlemedicine bottle, not , not the the beer bottlebeer bottle..
e. It was used to e. It was used to be healthybe healthy, not to , not to feel happyfeel happy..f. It was use as af. It was use as a laxative, laxative, not a not a relaxative. relaxative.
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was dilutede. When used as a beverage, it was diluted..
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was dilutede. When used as a beverage, it was diluted..
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was dilutede. When used as a beverage, it was diluted..f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel & f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel &
storage.storage.
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was dilutede. When used as a beverage, it was diluted..f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel & f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel &
storage.storage.
XI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections AnsweredXI. Some Objections Answered
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was dilutede. When used as a beverage, it was diluted..f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel & f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel &
storage.storage.g. “Rejoicing” is never used of “getting high” or drunk.g. “Rejoicing” is never used of “getting high” or drunk.
It was what they did consciously “in the presence It was what they did consciously “in the presence of the LORD” in connection with eating as a family. of the LORD” in connection with eating as a family.
EE.. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (drink (shekarshekar):):
““Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”a. He only said a. He only said buybuy strong drink, not to strong drink, not to drinkdrink it as such. it as such.b. It tells only of b. It tells only of eating foodeating food, not , not of drinking of drinking strong strong
drink.drink.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was dilutede. When used as a beverage, it was diluted..f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel & f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel &
storage.storage.g. “Rejoicing” is never used of “getting high” or drunk.g. “Rejoicing” is never used of “getting high” or drunk.
It was what they did consciously “in the presence It was what they did consciously “in the presence of the LORD” in connection with eating as a family. of the LORD” in connection with eating as a family.
ConclusionConclusionConclusionConclusion
Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.
ConclusionConclusionConclusionConclusion
Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.
Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.
ConclusionConclusionConclusionConclusion
Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture. Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine
or beer.or beer.
Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture. Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine
or beer.or beer.
ConclusionConclusionConclusionConclusion
Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture. Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine
or beer.or beer. ““Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to
debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18)(Eph. 5:18)
Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink. Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture. Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine
or beer.or beer. ““Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to
debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18)(Eph. 5:18)
ProhibitionProhibition was Goodwas GoodProhibitionProhibition was Goodwas Good
Death from cirrhosis dropped 66%Death from cirrhosis dropped 66% Alcohol related psychosis decreased 60%Alcohol related psychosis decreased 60% Arrest for disorderly conduct went down 54%Arrest for disorderly conduct went down 54% Family-related problems declined significantlyFamily-related problems declined significantly Alcohol consumption slid to an all-time lowAlcohol consumption slid to an all-time low Alcoholism diminished dramaticallyAlcoholism diminished dramatically
Death from cirrhosis dropped 66%Death from cirrhosis dropped 66% Alcohol related psychosis decreased 60%Alcohol related psychosis decreased 60% Arrest for disorderly conduct went down 54%Arrest for disorderly conduct went down 54% Family-related problems declined significantlyFamily-related problems declined significantly Alcohol consumption slid to an all-time lowAlcohol consumption slid to an all-time low Alcoholism diminished dramaticallyAlcoholism diminished dramatically