Today we will talk about bible verses about drinking alcohol. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. We will gently explore what Scripture says about wine, strong drink, drunkenness, and wise use. Our aim is not to judge, but to learn together. We will listen, reflect, and let the Bible help shape our hearts and choices. Whether we drink or abstain, the Bible gives wisdom for how we live with one another, how leaders should act, and how we steward our bodies and witness. Let us read with open hearts and honest questions as we consider bible verses about drinking alcohol and what they mean for our lives today.
“And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” – Ephesians 5:18
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Moderation and Sobriety (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
When we study bible verses about drinking alcohol, we often find a strong call to balance. We know the Bible honors careful living and clear minds. In our group life, we want to be clear-headed so we can love one another, serve well, and make good choices. The passages that speak about sobriety ask us to choose restraint over excess. We do not pretend we are perfect; rather, we agree to aim for wisdom together. We note that Scripture contrasts being filled with the Spirit and being filled with wine. That contrast is not only about rules. It is about living in a way that helps us notice God and care for others. When we lean on the Spirit, our choices reflect patience, self-control, and kindness. When we think about bible verses about drinking alcohol, we can ask practical questions: does my drinking help or harm my family? Does it slow my prayer life or my witness? Are there times when I should not drink so others can be stronger in their faith? These passages encourage us to examine our habits and to choose what honors God and serves others. They invite us to be mindful, to protect our minds and hearts, and to walk in honesty. Let us be honest with ourselves and with each other, seeking a life shaped by the Spirit rather than by excess.
Ephesians 5:18
“And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.” – Ephesians 5:18
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” – Proverbs 20:1
Romans 13:13
“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” – Romans 13:13
Galatians 5:21
“Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, … that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” – Galatians 5:21
1 Corinthians 6:10
“Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” – 1 Corinthians 6:10
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Warnings Against Drunkenness (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
When we read bible verses about drinking alcohol, we see many warnings against drunkenness. These verses do not scold from a place of anger. They warn because they love. They show how liquor can cloud our judgment, break our relationships, and lead us into harm. Together we learn that being drunk often brings sorrow, fights, poor choices, and shame. The Bible paints sharp pictures so we can see the danger before it traps us. Those images help us choose differently. We are not meant to live in fear. Instead, we are called to be wise and cautious. The warnings remind us to care for our bodies, our families, and our communities. We are called to protect those who are weak and to avoid patterns that lead to regret. When the Bible calls out wine and strong drink, it often makes clear that the problem is excess and loss of control. We also see how repeated partying and chasing mixed drinks dull the heart and put us in places where temptation grows. By keeping these warnings in mind, we can make choices that keep us loving and useful. Let us help each other stay clear-minded, watchful, and steady. Let us make our homes and gatherings safe places where our words and actions build up instead of tearing down. In this way, the Bible’s warnings become a kind and practical gift to our lives.
Proverbs 23:29
“Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?” – Proverbs 23:29
Proverbs 23:30
“They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.” – Proverbs 23:30
Proverbs 23:31
“Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.” – Proverbs 23:31
Proverbs 23:32
“At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.” – Proverbs 23:32
Proverbs 23:33
“Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thy heart shall utter perverse things.” – Proverbs 23:33
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Consequences of Excessive Drinking (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
We read many bible verses about drinking alcohol that show the real consequences of excess. When we gather, we talk about how excess drinking brings pain, loss, and broken trust. The Bible does not hide this truth. It shows people stumbling through nights of regret and waking to sorrow. In our shared life we do not want to be the cause of pain for others. The consequences reach beyond the drinker. Families get hurt. Work and reputation can be damaged. The Bible gives stories and sayings so we can recognize warning signs. It shows us that long nights of drinking lead to poor choices, and that pride or anger often follow. We also learn that those who encourage others to drink are warned. The Lord cares for neighbors and calls us to protect one another from harm. In our faith, we have responsibility: to speak kindly when we see harm, to help those who struggle, and to guide younger people with care. These bible verses about drinking alcohol remind us that life is fragile. We are called to choose what brings life, not ruin. We do not shame, but we do practice honesty. That honesty leads us to mercy and help for those who need it most.
Proverbs 23:35
“They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.” – Proverbs 23:35
Isaiah 5:11
“Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!” – Isaiah 5:11
Isaiah 28:7
“But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.” – Isaiah 28:7
Habakkuk 2:15
“Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!” – Habakkuk 2:15
Amos 6:6
“That drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the chief ointments: but they are not grieved for the affliction of Joseph.” – Amos 6:6
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Wine as Blessing and Celebration (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
When we explore bible verses about drinking alcohol, we find that wine is not always shown as bad. The Bible sometimes speaks of wine as a blessing or a part of celebration. It can make the heart glad and be part of a meal where people rejoice. We read that in some settings wine is used to celebrate fellowship, to honor feasts, and even to be part of worship. This reminds us that the Bible is not uniform in tone toward wine; it speaks both of wise use and of danger. In our gatherings, we can honor those verses that celebrate life while also respecting the warnings. We choose joy that does not harm. We help each other enjoy good things without allowing them to master us. This balance helps us include those who cannot drink and to avoid causing them distress. While the Bible shows wine as part of a good table, the greater aim remains our love for God and neighbor. So when we use wine in celebration, we do it with care, thanking God for provision and for the company of friends and family. We let the joy point us back to God, not away from Him. These bible verses about drinking alcohol teach us that joy and caution can live together when our hearts are guided by love.
Psalm 104:15
“And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make him a cheerful countenance, and bread which strengtheneth man’s heart.” – Psalm 104:15
Ecclesiastes 9:7
“Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.” – Ecclesiastes 9:7
John 2:10
“And he saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.” – John 2:10
John 2:11
“This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.” – John 2:11
Deuteronomy 14:26
“And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, … and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,” – Deuteronomy 14:26
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Leadership, Vows and Priestly Rules (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
As we look into bible verses about drinking alcohol, we notice special rules for leaders and people who take vows. The Bible sets apart some people for service in ways that include restrictions on wine. For example, Nazirite vows asked people to avoid wine to show devotion to God. Priests had rules to keep their minds clear for serving at the tabernacle. These passages teach us about holiness and responsibility. When someone leads others, their choices carry weight. We read that leaders should avoid things that cloud their judgment. In families and in the church, elders and ministers are asked to be models of self-control. This is not meant to be a harsh demand but an invitation to protect the flock. Those who take special vows show their dedication by temporary or lifelong separation from certain pleasures. We can learn from this even if we do not take the same vows. We can ask: how do our habits help or hurt our call to serve? When we think of bible verses about drinking alcohol, these texts invite us to consider the ways our behavior affects others. If we are in roles of guidance or leadership, we must weigh our actions so we lead with clarity, humility, and care. The Bible uses these rules to help us guard what matters most—our faithfulness to God and our service to people.
Numbers 6:3
“He shall separate himself from wine and strong drink, and shall drink no vinegar of wine, or vinegar of strong drink, … for the days of his separation shall be a Nazarite to the LORD.” – Numbers 6:3
Judges 13:7
“But he shall drink no wine nor strong drink; and he shall not eat any unclean thing: for he shall be a Nazarite to God from the womb …” – Judges 13:7
Leviticus 10:9
“Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy son with thee, when ye go into the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die: it shall be a statute for ever.” – Leviticus 10:9
Proverbs 31:4
“It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:” – Proverbs 31:4
Proverbs 31:6
“Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.” – Proverbs 31:6
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Guidance for Pastors and the Community (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
When we read bible verses about drinking alcohol, we find specific advice for how church life and community should handle drink. The Bible tells elders and families to care carefully for those who lead and those who struggle. We are asked to be practical and loving. For example, Paul told Timothy to take a little wine for his stomach. That is a gentle, medical note. Elsewhere Paul and Peter warn us about excess and remind the church to avoid causing others to stumble. This is important for how we act as a group. We do not want our habits to keep others from meeting with the Lord. We watch out for those who are weak. We help people who battle addiction with kindness and with wise steps. We also encourage leaders to be clear-minded, sober, and disciplined. These verses guide church life so our worship and service stay pure. When we discuss bible verses about drinking alcohol, we ask how to balance mercy and truth. We learn to protect the vulnerable and to practice self-control. We want our community to shine with faith, hope, and love, so our actions give strength, not sorrow, to one another.
1 Timothy 5:23
“Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.” – 1 Timothy 5:23
Titus 2:3
“The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine; … that they may teach the young women to be sober.” – Titus 2:3-4 (excerpt)
Romans 14:21
“It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor anything whereby thy brother stumbleth, … or is made weak.” – Romans 14:21
1 Peter 4:3
“For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries.” – 1 Peter 4:3
Luke 21:34
“And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.” – Luke 21:34
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Social Witness and Neighborly Love (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
Our lives show what we believe. When we read bible verses about drinking alcohol, we are reminded that our choices affect others. Paul tells us to avoid causing a brother to stumble. This means sometimes we might refuse a drink so another is not tempted. Our faith calls us to love our neighbor by thinking beyond our own freedom. We also remember that Jesus ate and drank in the world without sin, yet he still loved people who were weak and broken. He reached out with grace. That balance shows us how to live. We are to be considerate, not offensive. We are to help, not to harm. In social settings, we can set an example of self-control, and we can also show compassion to those who are suffering from addiction. Bible verses about drinking alcohol help us choose how to act in public and private. They help us learn when to celebrate and when to refrain. In this way, our witness becomes a gift that points others toward life and healing.
Romans 14:21
“It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor anything whereby thy brother stumbleth, … or is made weak.” – Romans 14:21
Matthew 11:19
“The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.” – Matthew 11:19
Luke 7:33
“For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil.” – Luke 7:33
Luke 7:34
“The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners.” – Luke 7:34
1 Corinthians 10:31
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Addiction, Mockery, and Deception (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
As a community, we must face the hard truth in bible verses about drinking alcohol about addiction and the lies it brings. The Bible warns that wine can mock and strong drink can rage. This is not only poetic language. It is a clear picture of how substances can deceive the mind. We know addiction often starts small and then grows until freedom seems lost. The Bible shows how drunkenness leads to poor choices, shame, and sometimes violence. It also calls out the social role of those who push others into drunkenness. In our care for one another, we must be gentle but direct. We support those trapped by addiction with prayer, wise help, and practical steps. We do not excuse the behavior, but we meet the person with love. Scripture helps us name the danger and then point to recovery and hope. When we read these bible verses about drinking alcohol, we remember we are not alone. God offers mercy. The church can be a place of healing where people find new rhythms, accountability, and freedom. Together we choose truth, help one another, and walk toward life.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” – Proverbs 20:1
Proverbs 23:20
“Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:” – Proverbs 23:20
Proverbs 23:29
“Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes?” – Proverbs 23:29
Proverbs 23:32
“At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.” – Proverbs 23:32
Proverbs 23:35
“They have stricken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I felt it not: when shall I awake? I will seek it yet again.” – Proverbs 23:35
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Healing, Medicine, and Practical Use (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
There are times when bible verses about drinking alcohol speak of practical use, even for health. Paul’s advice to Timothy to take wine for his stomach shows the Bible can offer sensible, medical advice. Proverbs also mentions giving strong drink to those who are ready to perish, pointing to its use in extreme need. These verses do not contradict warnings about drunkenness. Instead, they show wise, limited use can be acceptable. In our groups, we learn to be thoughtful: we seek medical help when needed, listen to doctors, and remember the Bible’s care for the whole person. Using wine as medicine or for comfort in hard seasons should always be done carefully and in moderation. We also remember that what helps one person might harm another. This balance fits with Scripture’s broader call to love our neighbor and to act with prudence. When we study bible verses about drinking alcohol, we take away both caution and compassion. We want to be wise caretakers of our bodies and tender helpers to those in pain.
1 Timothy 5:23
“Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.” – 1 Timothy 5:23
Psalm 104:15
“And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make him a cheerful countenance…” – Psalm 104:15
Proverbs 31:6
“Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.” – Proverbs 31:6
Ecclesiastes 9:7
“Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.” – Ecclesiastes 9:7
John 2:10
“And he saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; … but thou hast kept the good wine until now.” – John 2:10
bible verses about drinking alcohol
Cultural Practices and Discernment (bible verses about drinking alcohol)
Reading bible verses about drinking alcohol helps us understand how culture shapes our view of drink. In some Bible times, wine was a daily part of life, part of common meals, and a sign of hospitality. In other times, the Bible spoke against certain uses because they led to harm. As a community, we want to read these verses with wisdom. Culture today is very different from Bible times. We ask: how do these verses help us decide in our setting? Do our choices honor God? Do they protect the weak? We also remember Jesus’ gentle approach. He ate and drank with all kinds of people and reached out with love. He did not allow culture to hide sin, but he also did not condemn without compassion. When we interpret bible verses about drinking alcohol, we must be humble and wise. We must learn to stand firm where Scripture is clear and to show grace where it asks for compassion. This mix of truth and love helps us live faithfully in our culture.
Matthew 11:19
“The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, … But wisdom is justified of her children.” – Matthew 11:19
Romans 14:21
“It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor anything whereby thy brother stumbleth, … or is made weak.” – Romans 14:21
Deuteronomy 14:26
“And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, … and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,” – Deuteronomy 14:26
Leviticus 10:9
“Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy son with thee, when ye go into the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die …” – Leviticus 10:9
Numbers 6:3
“He shall separate himself from wine and strong drink … for the days of his separation shall be a Nazarite to the LORD.” – Numbers 6:3
Final Thoughts
I have walked with you through many bible verses about drinking alcohol, and I have tried to be honest and kind. We have seen both warnings and wise uses in Scripture. We have also seen calls to protect one another and to choose the Spirit over excess. As I read these passages, I feel both challenged and comforted.
We can use what we learned to live with care. We can celebrate with joy, avoid harm, help those who struggle, and lead with sobriety. Let us be the kind of people who make wise choices that point others to life and healing.
May we keep learning together, pray for strength, and show grace to one another as we follow God’s word about bible verses about drinking alcohol and all the ways it shapes our lives.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
Bible Commentary, Blog
30 Important bible verses about selflessness (With Explanation)