Tag: moderate use of alcohol

Accuracy in Translation

If a person were to study the subject of wine from most any English translation of the Bible, that person might come away with an idea that the Bible condones a moderate use of alcohol.  The Bible clearly condemns drunkenness (Lk. 21:34; Rom. 13:13; Gal. 5:21; 1 Pet. 4:3).  Yet, certain passages sound like they approve of the consumption of intoxicating beverages (Deut. 14:26; Prov. 31:6; Hos. 4:11; Lk. 5:37-39; 7:33-35; Jn. 2:1-11; 1 Cor. ...

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Strong Drink

Most English versions of the Bible consistently translate the Hebrew word “shekar” as “strong drink.”  “Shekar” literally means “drink.”  It is used 23 times in the Old Testament.  The vast majority of the times when it is used in the Old Testament are in contexts where its use is condemned (ex. Lev. 10:9-11; Num. 6:2-4; Judg. 13:3-5; Prov. 20:1; Isa. 5:11).  Incidentally, our English word “sugar” is derived from it. Shekar is a sweet beverage ...

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What Distinguishes Us From Other Churches of Christ in the Black Hills?

Not all churches of Christ are the same.  Many churches of Christ do not strictly follow God’s word. Some churches of Christ have been “leavened” by carnal members (1 Cor. 5:6-8).  A sure sign of this is a church that condones sin among its members (1 Tim. 5:22).  Such was the case in the church at Corinth (1 Cor. 5:1-5).  Rather than taking action to remove the sinful member, the church in their arrogance, ignored ...

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Drink No Wine

Many people contend that the Bible does not condemn the drinking of an alcoholic beverage; rather, it condemns drunkenness.  To them the drink is not wrong but the quantity of alcohol consumed.  In truth, the Bible does condemn the drinking of fermented beverages. The warnings against the consumption of alcohol are found throughout the Bible.  A well-known passage in Proverbs 23:31-32 states “Do not look on the wine when it is red, when it sparkles ...

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