“Is drinking alcohol a sin?”
The answer is not found in people’s opinions, but in the Bible.
So, what does the Bible say?
The Bible does not simply say, “Do not drink alcohol.”
It clearly condemns drunkenness, excess, and the loss of self-control.
“Do not choose to be inebriated by wine, for this is self-indulgence. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18)
The Christian is called to remain sober, watchful, and self-controlled.
The problem is therefore not only what you drink, but what that drink does to you.
If it begins to control your behavior, cloud your judgment, destroy your peace, or make you lose self-control, then you need to stop and ask yourself one question:
WHO IS CONTROLLING WHOM?
The Bible says:
“It is a luxurious thing, wine, and inebriation is tumultuous. Anyone who is delighted by this will not be wise.”
(Proverbs 20:1)
Alcohol can impair judgment and lead a person to do or say things they will later regret.
That is why the Bible calls us to wisdom and self-control.
Paul declares:
“I will not be mastered by anything.”(1 Corinthians 6:12)
Let us also remember that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit:
“Do you not know that your bodies are the Temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19)
So, do not ask only:
“CAN I DRINK?”
Beyond this simple question, the Christian should ask deeper questions:
Is this drink controlling me?
Is it affecting my judgment?
Is it harming my body?
Is it affecting my family and relationships?
Is it becoming a habit I can no longer live without?
Is it drawing me away from God?
Could my drinking cause someone else to stumble?
If alcohol causes you to stumble, makes you lose self-control, brings you sadness, destroys your peace, harms your health, or gradually draws you away from God, have the courage to make a new choice.
Your freedom is worth more than a drink.
Your fellowship with God is worth more than a habit.
And your life is worth more than anything that could control you.
PRAYER:
Lord, give me wisdom and self-control.
Let nothing become my master, and let my choices glorify Your name.
Help me to take care of the body You have entrusted to me.
In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Shalom!
Apostle Dr. Jean-Claude SINDAYIGAYA
THE LION OF JUDAH MISSION IN THE WORLD