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Scripture condemns drunkenness. Does that mean that having a glass of wine with my dinner on occasion, or a nice cold beer every once in a while, shows that my commitment to Christ has been compromised? Not at all.

Take a moment to think about the Pharisees-they followed the Old Testament Law, as well as many of their own man-imposed laws, to the letter. But, this legalistic approach to life and faith certainly didn't guarantee them salvation, which is available to each of us through Christ alone. As a matter of fact, it contributed to their spiritual blindness, which led inevitably to Christ's atoning work on the cross. Their reactions and the end result were a part of God's sovereign plan for our salvation, but that makes their willful spiritual ignorance no less tragic.

That being said, we all have our individual Christian witness to consider. Paul instructed the Romans that, "It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that would cause your brother to fall" (Romans 14:21). Drinking alcohol while avoiding drunkenness is not prohibited by Scripture. However, many people, believers and those who don't know Christ, feel that drinking is not a choice becoming of a Christian. Paul also said to the Romans, "If your brother is distressed because of what you eat, you are no longer acting in love. Do not by your eating destroy your brother for whom Christ died. Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken of as evil" (Romans 14:15-16). Do not selfishly compromise your Christian witness for the sake of a glass of wine. Be considerate of others and the impact your actions may have on their faith. That's the only loving way to approach this matter.

Most importantly, we need to remember that "the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17). Legalism, specifically avoiding drinking, does not bring salvation, nor does it impart righteousness, peace, or joy, which can be found in Christ alone.

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