Topical Encyclopedia Wine holds a significant place in biblical narratives and teachings, serving various roles from a symbol of joy and blessing to a subject of caution. One notable instance of its mention is in the Apostle Paul's advice to Timothy, which provides insight into the early Christian perspective on the use of wine.In 1 Timothy 5:23, Paul advises his young protégé, Timothy, saying, "Stop drinking only water and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent ailments" . This directive is noteworthy for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the medicinal use of wine in the ancient world. Wine was commonly used for its antiseptic properties and as a remedy for digestive issues, which aligns with Paul's recommendation for Timothy's "frequent ailments." Paul's counsel also reflects a balanced approach to the consumption of wine. While the Bible contains numerous warnings against drunkenness and the potential for wine to lead to moral laxity (e.g., Proverbs 20:1, Ephesians 5:18), this passage underscores the acceptance of moderate wine consumption for health purposes. It suggests that the early church did not advocate for total abstinence but rather for responsible and purposeful use. The context of this advice is also significant. Timothy was a young leader in the early church, tasked with guiding and teaching others. Paul's recommendation can be seen as a practical measure to ensure Timothy's well-being and effectiveness in his ministry. It implies that caring for one's health is important for those in spiritual leadership, as physical well-being can impact one's ability to serve. Furthermore, this passage reflects the cultural and historical context of the New Testament era. Water quality in the ancient world was often poor, and wine, with its fermentation process, provided a safer alternative. By advising Timothy to "use a little wine," Paul acknowledges the practical realities of the time while maintaining a focus on moderation. In summary, Paul's recommendation to Timothy regarding wine is a multifaceted instruction that encompasses health, moderation, and cultural context. It serves as an example of the nuanced approach to wine in the Bible, balancing its potential benefits with the need for caution and self-control. 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 Evil Habits and Injurious Indulgences. Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. The Brethren at Home. The Seventh Word from the Cross Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. In Death and after Death Questions About the Lord's Supper Extracts No. X. Introductory Note to the Works of Origen. Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Resources Why is the real presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper such a controversial issue? | GotQuestions.orgIs intinction the correct way to do communion? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about underage drinking? | 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 |