The term "winebibber" refers to an individual who habitually drinks wine to excess, often synonymous with a drunkard or wino. In the context of the New Testament, Jesus Christ was falsely accused of being a winebibber by His critics, a charge that was intended to undermine His moral authority and discredit His ministry.

The accusation is recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. In Matthew 11:18-19 , Jesus addresses the criticisms leveled against both John the Baptist and Himself: "For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon!’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at Him, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ But wisdom is vindicated by her actions." Similarly, in Luke 7:33-34 , the same accusation is recounted: "For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon!’ The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at Him, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’"

These accusations were part of a broader attempt by the religious leaders of the time to challenge Jesus' legitimacy and authority. By labeling Him a winebibber, they sought to associate Him with sinful behavior and thus diminish His influence among the people. However, these charges were unfounded and misrepresented the nature of Jesus' ministry.

Jesus' association with tax collectors and sinners was not an endorsement of their lifestyles but rather a demonstration of His mission to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). His willingness to engage with those marginalized by society was a testament to His compassion and the inclusive nature of the Gospel. The accusations of being a winebibber and glutton were a distortion of His actions, which were characterized by grace and truth.

The charge of being a winebibber also highlights the contrast between the ascetic lifestyle of John the Baptist and the more socially engaged approach of Jesus. While John lived a life of strict abstinence, Jesus participated in social gatherings, including those where wine was present, such as the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11). This participation was not indicative of excess but rather a reflection of His incarnation and His identification with humanity.

In conclusion, the label of "winebibber" was a false accusation aimed at discrediting Jesus. It serves as a reminder of the opposition He faced and the misunderstandings about His mission. Despite such accusations, Jesus' life and ministry were marked by righteousness, compassion, and a commitment to the redemption of humanity. His actions were ultimately vindicated by the wisdom and truth He embodied, as evidenced by the transformative impact of His ministry and the enduring message of the Gospel.Matthew 11:19
The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a drunkard, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
Nave's Topical Index

Luke 7:34
The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and you say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a drunkard, a friend of publicans and sinners!
Nave's Topical Index

Is it a sin to drink alcohol? | GotQuestions.org

Did Jesus change the water into wine or grape juice? | GotQuestions.org

How should a Christian view alcoholics? What does the Bible say about drunkards? | GotQuestions.org

Winebibber: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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