How does "not addicted to much wine" apply to modern temptations? Setting the Scene “Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in their behavior, not slanderers or enslaved to much wine, but teachers of what is good.” (Titus 2:3) What Did Paul Mean by “Not Addicted to Much Wine”? • “Much wine” refers to more than occasional use; it pictures being mastered or controlled. • The Greek word rendered “enslaved” shows a bondage that blunts spiritual alertness. • The principle: anything that seizes the heart and dulls devotion to Christ must be resisted. Modern Parallels to “Much Wine” Think beyond the bottle. Today, “enslaving” forces can include: • Streaming marathons, endless social media scrolling, or gaming binges • Pornography or illicit relationships that promise escape but forge chains • Overspending, consumer debt, and the thrill of constant online shopping • Prescription painkillers, recreational drugs, vaping, or the “harmless” extra pill • Sugar, caffeine, or comfort food used to cope rather than to nourish • Workaholism, status-seeking, or exercise turned into an idol Any habit that numbs conscience, steals time from the Lord, or rules our choices fits Paul’s warning. Why Self-Control Matters • Freedom: “I will not be mastered by anything.” (1 Corinthians 6:12) • Witness: a sober life adorns the gospel (cf. Titus 2:10). • Safety: “Be sober-minded and alert.” (1 Peter 5:8) • Fruit: self-control is Spirit-given evidence of new life (Galatians 5:22-23). • Worship: a clear mind welcomes deeper communion with God (Ephesians 5:18). Practical Steps to Live Sober-Minded Today 1. Examine the heart • Ask: What do I run to when stressed, bored, or lonely? 2. Set boundaries • Time limits on screens, spending caps, or accountability software guard the gate. 3. Replace, don’t just remove • Fill the gap with Scripture reading, prayer walks, serving others, wholesome hobbies. 4. Cultivate community • Share struggles with trusted believers (James 5:16). Isolation feeds addiction. 5. Keep short accounts • Confess quickly, repent decisively, rejoice in Christ’s cleansing (1 John 1:9). 6. Depend on the Spirit • “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) Encouragement from the Word • “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18) • “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” (Proverbs 20:1) • “Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.” (Proverbs 25:28) • “No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:27) • “Let us remain awake and sober.” (1 Thessalonians 5:6) May these truths keep us alert, free, and fruitful, living testimonies of the grace that teaches us to say “No” to all that would enslave. |
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