Christianity is one of the world’s most followed religions, with an estimated two billion adherents, encompassing a broad range of spiritual and theological beliefs. While some Christian traditions are more restrictive, most Christian denominations take a nuanced, rather than uniformly prohibitive approach to alcoholic consumption.
The Bible does not declare alcohol itself harmful or sinful. While the Bible does frequently discuss and describe alcohol, most view its overall discussion of alcohol as a social commentary, not a prohibition of all drinking. In fact, some Bible passages even present alcoholic consumption as positive, such as when Jesus is said to have turned water into wine at the wedding in Cana.
Most clergy are in agreement that drinking alcohol, in moderation, is not a sin. In 2020, the Catholic Church even published a document meant to update church teachings on alcohol consumption. The statement, issued by the Vatican’s Pontifical Council, declares that drinking alcohol “can be a sign of joy,” and that abusing alcohol should be avoided, as it is “not good.” The Council even goes a step further, drawing a distinction between “a moderate drinking and the dark shadow of alcoholism”.
Many Christian leaders take the stance that while a glass of wine with dinner may be acceptable, the practice of engaging in compulsive and excessive drinking can lead to a range of negative physical and mental health outcomes, and constitutes a potential threat to personal happiness and well-being. In this sense, “drunkenness” is often defined by Christian denominations as an ultimately “unacceptable behavior” for Christians.
However, there does exist a wide spectrum of opinion on the role of alcohol in Christianity, with supporters and detractors alike. For example, some faith groups view even moderate drinking as an entirely unacceptable form of behavior, while others may support the ritualistic or celebratory use of alcohol. Experts encourage those who are in doubt to examine their conscience, pray for guidance, and check in with one’s pastor or spiritual advisor, if guidance is needed.
Spiritual Struggles Around Drinking
Beyond simply analyzing the effect of alcohol itself, spiritual advice typically considers how to confront the internal issues that can lead to avoidable alcohol abuse. As Christian psychologist Trey C. Hausel, PhD explains, “It is usually the painful emotional and spiritual struggles that lead some people to overuse alcohol and other drugs.”
Dr. Hausel also suggests that understanding the relationship between one’s emotions, beliefs, and behaviors can be very helpful in making a plan of action. “We may want to look at how the person experiences their emotions, and how the emotions, beliefs and behavior may impact the person’s Spiritual Connection to God.”
Most Christian denominations agree that alcoholism should be addressed in a comprehensive approach which includes group support, education, therapy, and building a healthy spiritual connection to God. Common spiritual remedies also include praying with a trusted pastor or spiritual advisor on a regular basis, participating in weekly Bible study, attending church events, and developing positive life purpose.
Many churches also offer Alcoholics Anonymous-style (AA) support groups, and Christian-based support groups like Celebrate Recovery, to help individuals address substance abuse issues in a spiritually-sensitive environment.
Finding Strength Through Prayer
Ultimately, many Christian adherents find strength and healing through prayer, as a powerful and often transformative spiritual exercise that has been proven to improve mental and physical health outcomes. The Bible provides numerous examples of prayer having the power to heal and comfort.
Rainer Sabin, founder of a Christian-based substance abuse treatment center, asserts that addiction is a spiritual problem, and can only be solved with spiritual and mental. “The answer is not a pill, not in a bottle,” he stresses “The answer is a relationship with a higher power.”
The power of prayer is often an essential piece of recovery, with prayer being leveraged as an essential tool to maintain strength, cultivate trust, and rebuild a deeper, more meaningful connection with God. This enhanced spiritual connection is often seen as a fundamentally necessary element of a successful, sustainable recovery experience.
Finding a Fellowship
For those who find themselves struggling with alcohol or substance abuse, or seeking to redefine their relationship with alcohol, it may be helpful to find a spiritual community. Affiliated with both Christianity, and AA, there are numerous spiritually-affirming “recovery fellowships” which offer weekly meetings and other resources for individuals who are on the path of recovery.
Most meetings incorporate numerous AA processes, alongside applicable Scriptural teachings and faith-oriented activities. Members of such a fellowship may be relieved to find a safe, supportive community which is more than willing to help each other in the journey of recovery.
Other recovery fellowships may provide access to additional resources, such as Christian-specific Alcoholics Anonymous literature, podcasts, and videos, to provide members with strength, hope, and knowledge on their path of recovery.
Living in Moderation
Although some Christian denominations recommend avoiding alcohol altogether, the majority view is more moderate. For those who choose to drink, responsible drinking is typically the most widely accepted approach for Christians, with the occasional glass of wine considered acceptable for toast or blessing, so long as it does not cause physical harm or lead to an excessive or compulsive substance abuse habits.
Many believe that the central question is not whether drinking alcohol is acceptable in Christianity, but instead, how to prevent drinking from becoming harmful or damaging to one’s physical or emotional health.
Ultimately, moderation is seen as the key. As Augustine of Hippo reminds, “…drink so that your fall should not be too deep, but may be within the depth you can rise out of.”
Reframing Our Perspective
Ultimately, examining the spiritual context of drinking is a very personal decision, with much to consider. It is important to remember that responsible drinking can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. While an abusive drinking habit can be a sign of more serious issues, normal, social-level drinking can be a pleasant experience, with less of a need to seek answers as to its morality in your faith.
It is important to recognize that beverage alcohol, in and of itself, is not morally wrong or evil. Reframing one’s attitude towards drinking – from one of prescribed morality, to one of creative, mindful enjoyment – could go a very long way to relieving the unwarranted guilt and shame that often accompanies social drinking.
Developing a Balance of Mindfulness and Discernment
Regardless of the spiritual path one takes, at the very heart of responsible drinking should always be a mindful consideration of the impact of substance abuse. developing an internal self-awareness and discernment, is a fundamental element if true balance is to be achieved.
In this sense, one can develop an overall sense of healthy conscientiousness for when and why one chooses to drink. Evangelical minister, Pastora Vicky Graterol-Morán, believes that faith-based discernment is a fundamentally necessary element for living a healthy spiritual life. “Have the courage to evaluate,” she writes, “to decide, to determine and act according to the moral parameters taught by our Christian faith”
Allowing Space for Imperfections
Throughout the Bible, it is made clear that all of us will experience struggles and temptations in life. All of us make mistakes, but it also important to recognize when an individual has made change, and take the time to celebrate their progress.
It is important to remember that, while mistakes may be made, we all have the ability to start fresh and strive to be our better selves – with plenty of spiritual support along the way. As 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Understanding Compassionate Criticism
It is also important to discern between the helpful and hurtful when seeking advice from friends or loved ones on the issue of drinking. Being critical or judgmental of those who struggle with substance abuse can often lead to feelings of guilt, shame, or humiliation and can be damaging to the individual’s mental and spiritual well-being.
It is recommended to remember the golden rule – to show others the same kindness and compassion that we would like to receive ourselves. As Christian pastor, Rick Warren, reminds us “If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem. Reject criticism of other people, and never offer criticism that’s not helpful and hopeful.”
