Topical Encyclopedia The topic of wine and its consumption is addressed in various passages throughout the Bible, often highlighting both its benefits and potential for misuse. In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul's guidance to Timothy provides a notable instance of counsel regarding the use of wine.Timothy, a young pastor and close associate of Paul, is mentioned in the context of wine in 1 Timothy 5:23. Paul advises him, "Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses" . This directive suggests that Timothy had been practicing abstinence from wine, relying solely on water for his beverage needs. The reason for Timothy's abstinence is not explicitly stated in the text, but it may be inferred that it was due to personal conviction, a desire to maintain a clear witness, or adherence to cultural or religious norms of the time. Paul's instruction to Timothy to use "a little wine" for medicinal purposes indicates an understanding of the health benefits associated with moderate wine consumption. In the ancient world, wine was often used for its antiseptic properties and as a remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues. This practical advice underscores the balance between abstinence and the responsible use of wine for health reasons. The broader biblical context provides additional insight into the use of wine. Scripture acknowledges wine as a gift from God that can bring joy and celebration, as seen in Psalm 104:14-15: "He makes the grass grow for the livestock and provides crops for man to cultivate, bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens the heart of man, oil that makes his face shine, and bread that sustains his heart" . However, the Bible also warns against the dangers of excessive consumption and drunkenness, which can lead to moral and spiritual downfall (Proverbs 20:1; Ephesians 5:18). Timothy's abstinence from wine, therefore, can be viewed within the framework of biblical teachings that advocate for wisdom and self-control in all things. His example reflects a commitment to personal discipline and a sensitivity to the potential stumbling blocks that alcohol might present in his ministry context. Paul's counsel to Timothy serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and the need to prioritize health and well-being, even when it involves adjusting personal practices. In summary, Timothy's abstinence from wine, as addressed by Paul, highlights the nuanced approach to alcohol consumption found in Scripture. It emphasizes the importance of personal conviction, the responsible use of God's gifts, and the overarching call to live a life that honors God in all aspects. Nave's Topical Index 1 Timothy 5:23Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for your stomach's sake and your often infirmities. Nave's Topical Index Library From Fasts Absolute Tertullian Comes to Partial Ones and ... Evil Habits and Injurious Indulgences. 1 Timothy iv. 3-Jan How those who Use Food Intemperately and those who Use it ... Faustus Repels the Insinuation that the Prophecy of Paul with ... Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Another Kind of Men Living Together in Cities. Fasts of Three Days ... Marriage, I Say, is a Good, and May Be... Colossians and Ephesians Compared and vindicated. John ii. 4 Resources Did Jesus change the water into wine or grape juice? | GotQuestions.orgDid Jesus drink wine/alcohol? | GotQuestions.org Should wine or grape juice be used for communion? | GotQuestions.org Wine: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Wine in Excess: Impairs the Health Wine in Excess: Impairs the Judgment and Memory Wine in Excess: Inflames the Passions Wine in Excess: Infuriates the Temper Wine in Excess: Leads to Remorse Wine in Excess: Leads to Sorrow and Contention Wine in Times of Scarcity, Was Mixed With Water Wine of the Abominations of the Apostasy Wine of the Blessing of the Gospel Wine of the Joys of Spiritual Matters Wine of the Wrath and Judgments of God Wine Press of the Judgments of God Wine Press: General Scriptures Concerning Wine Press: Treading The, of the Sufferings of Christ Wine Press: Trodden With Joy and Shouting Wine was Made of The Juice of the Grape Wine was Made of The Juice of the Pomegranate Wine was Used for Drink offerings in Idolatrous Worship Wine was Used for Drink offerings in the Worship of God Wine was Used: As a Beverage from the Earliest Age Wine was Used: At all Feasts and Entertainments Wine with Corn and Oil, Denoted all Temporal Blessings Wine: Abstinence from of Daniel Wine: Abstinence from of the Courtiers of Ahasuerus Wine: Abstinence from of Timothy Wine: Admonitions Against the Use of Wine: An Article of Extensive Commerce Wine: Cheap Wine (Like Vinegar) Given to Jesus at the Crucifixion Wine: Consequence of Putting (When New), Into Old Bottles Wine: Custom of Giving to Persons in Pain or Suffering, Mixed With Wine: Custom of Presenting to Travellers Wine: First Fruits of, to be offered to God Wine: First Mode of Making, Notice Wine: Forbidden to Nazarites During Their Separation Wine: Forbidden to Priests While on Duty Wine: Forbidden to the Priests While Engaged in the Tabernacle Wine: Generally Made by Treading the Grapes in a Press Wine: Given by Melchizedek to Abraham Wine: Given in Abundance to the Jews when Obedient Wine: Intoxication from the Use of Wine: Intoxication From: Ahasuerus Wine: Intoxication From: Amnon Wine: Intoxication From: Falsely Charged Against the Disciples Wine: Intoxication From: Joseph and his Brothers Wine: Intoxication From: Kings of Israel Wine: Intoxication From: Nabal Wine: Made by Jesus at the Marriage Feast in Cana Wine: Often Spiced to Increase Its Strength Wine: Places Celebrated For: Assyria Wine: Places Celebrated For: Canaan in General Wine: Places Celebrated For: Helbon Wine: Places Celebrated For: Lebanon Wine: Places Celebrated For: Moab Wine: Places Celebrated For: Possessions of Judah Wine: Recommended by Paul to Timothy Wine: Samson's Mother Forbidden to Drink Wine: Sometimes Mixed With Milk As a Beverage Wine: Sweet, Esteemed for Flavour and Strength Wine: Symbolical of the Blood of Jesus Wine: The Jews Frequently Deprived of, As a Punishment Wine: The Jews Frequently Drank, to Excess Wine: The Love of Christ to be Preferred To Wine: The Rechabites Never Drank Wine: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Wine: Water Miraculously Turned Into Related Terms |
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