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Is It a Sin to Drink Alcohol? A Biblical Perspective
Jeffrey E. Hansen, Ph.D.
Clinical Director
I have been married for 44 years to a wonderful woman and have two amazing children and one granddaughter who is the apple of my eye. I have passions for motorcycling, reading, traveling, public speaking, writing, playing with our three dogs, and spending time in the great outdoors.
I have a B.A. in psychology from the University of California at Berkeley, an M.A. in psychology from the University of Arkansas, and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Arkansas. I completed an American Psychological Association-approved internship at Silas B. Hayes Army Community Hospital in Fort Ord, California, and a post-doctoral fellowship in pediatric psychology at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. I am licensed in Psychology in the State of Washington (PY-1695) and in the State of Arizona (PSY-005450).
I have worked as a pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychologist in the Army for 10 years, in private practice for 25 years, and more recently at Madigan Army Medical Center for the last 7 years where I serve as a senior staff member providing pediatric, adolescent, and adult psychological services and consultation to Madigan clinics, and, as a graduate medical education faculty member, training for and supervision of practicum doctoral students and clinical psychology interns.
Life is full of unlimited opportunities and joys if we choose to live in connected harmony with our creator, one another, and our beautiful world. My heartfelt commitment is to others find this balance using Biblical, evidence, and neuroscience-based psychotherapies.
- Alcohol Addiction
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The bible does not condemn drinking as a sin, but does warn that drunkenness can lead to harm and destruction, calling for self-control. For those who struggle with alcohol abuse, they may struggle to do this and drink in moderation. Not due to a sin or lack of faith, but a real medical condition: addiction.
Scripture, such as teachings from Matthew 9:13, encourages us to respond to sickness with care and compassion. “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick”. Just as Jesus helped heal the sick and supported those in suffering, Christians are called to support and help those who misuse alcohol.
What Does the Bible Say About Drinking Alcohol?
The bible acknowledges drinking as a part of the human experience, such as celebrations like weddings or feasts. For example, Jesus famously turned water into wine at a wedding in Cana (John 2:1-11) and encouraged those to drink and enjoy at appropriate times.
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God”- 1 Corinthians 10:31. This encourages Christians to honor God in ordinary activities, even drinking. In this context of alcohol, it encourages individuals to make healthy choices and practice drinking in moderation.
It does warn against excessive drinking and drunkenness. For example, in Proverbs 20:1: “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whoever is deceived by it is not wise.”
The Difference Between Drinking and Drunkenness in the Bible
Ecclesiastes 9:7: “Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do.” The bible makes it clear it is not inherently wrong to drink.
However, drunkenness in the bible is warned against because of impaired judgment and the consequences that follow. Ephesians 5:18: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead be filled with the Spirit”.
Christians are encouraged to practice moderation, guided by the Spirit rather than their desires, pleasures, or overindulgence. In the modern sense, the bible emphasized the responsible use of alcohol.
Alcohol, Temptation, and Christian Responsibility
Alcohol presents Christians with temptation and a test of Christian responsibility. The bible acknowledges the free will of Christians, but reminds them to exercise self-control and be mindful of their choices and the impact it has on others.
Corinthians 10:23: “All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful… Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.” Paul emphasizes that Christians should be guided by love and a desire to honor God and protect others from harm.
Temptation can make alcohol a challenge, especially for those who struggle with addiction and an underlying medical condition. For Christians who can practice self-control, consider being a steward of compassion to those who are unable to.
When Alcohol Becomes a Struggle
When alcohol becomes a struggle, early signs of addiction can show up in everyday life, and the more loved ones who recognize and offer support, the greater the likelihood that the individual seeks treatment. Subtle signs that someone you love could be struggling with an alcohol problem include:
- Showing up to work or church hungover
- Drinking alone or in secrecy
- Seeking excuses to get drunk (long day at work, going to the bar every weekend with friends)
- Increasing the amount of alcohol to achieve the same effect
- Drinking before, or arriving drunk, at events
- Mood swings, irritability, personality changes
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities
- Forgetfulness, blackouts, memory loss
These signs can indicate a struggle with alcohol abuse or addiction, which can damage relationships, health, and faith over time. As Christians, it’s important to remember this struggle is not a moral failure or lack of faith, but a health issue that requires support, compassion, and care. —Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Alcohol Addiction Treatment at AnchorPoint, Arizona
At AnchorPoint, we are committed to providing compassionate care that addresses the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of our clients. Through a blend of evidence-based therapies, social supports, case management, integrated wellness, and Christ-centered services, we help individuals with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders find hope and walk their path of recovery.
We use a clinically supported, faith-integrated approach known as NeuroFaith™ to provide transformative addiction and mental health treatment. At AnchorPoint, faith is viewed as a resource to foster resilience and address the roots of addiction. Our dedicated team provides a roadmap for both clinical recovery and personal, spiritual growth.
Contact our admissions team today and discover how we can support you or a loved one struggling with alcohol misuse.
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