Drinking Wine

Dear Victorious,

Is it okay for Christians to drink wine? I think the Bible is confusing on this subject.

Mauri T. - Parsippany, NJ

Dear Mauri,

There are arguments for and against, and they're both backed by Scripture references. For me, the best place to see this in what Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 9 & 10. Here Paul lays out some criteria for making such decisions. Specifically look at 1 Corinthians 9:23-24. In a nutshell, wine is permissible, but it may not be beneficial or constructive.

Put another way, you have to consider the context. Is it addictive for you? Can you drink it in moderation? Could your drinking it mislead or tempt someone who isn't as strong or spiritually mature as you? Does it help or hurt your own witness for Christ?

These are the kinds of questions that must be asked and answered before a Christian should drink wine. And frankly, the answer could be different based on the individual. It may be okay for one Christian to drink wine, but not for another Christian.