Topical Bible: Drunkenness is Inflaming

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Topical Encyclopedia

Drunkenness, as depicted in the Bible, is a state of intoxication that leads to a loss of self-control and moral discernment. It is often associated with negative consequences and is condemned as a behavior that inflames passions and leads to sinful actions. The Bible provides numerous warnings against the dangers of drunkenness, emphasizing its destructive nature and the spiritual peril it poses.

Old Testament References

The Old Testament frequently addresses the issue of drunkenness, highlighting its detrimental effects on individuals and society. In Proverbs 20:1, it is written, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise." This verse underscores the deceptive nature of alcohol, which can lead individuals away from wisdom and into folly.

Isaiah 5:11-12 further illustrates the consequences of excessive drinking: "Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after strong drink, who linger into the evening to be inflamed by wine. They have harps and lyres at their banquets, tambourines and flutes and wine, but they disregard the deeds of the LORD and fail to see the work of His hands." Here, the prophet Isaiah warns against the pursuit of pleasure through alcohol, which results in a disregard for God's works and commands.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to caution against drunkenness, presenting it as incompatible with a life led by the Spirit. In Ephesians 5:18, the Apostle Paul instructs, "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." This passage contrasts the reckless behavior associated with drunkenness with the spiritual fullness that comes from living in accordance with the Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:19-21 lists drunkenness among the "acts of the flesh," warning that "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." This stark admonition serves as a reminder of the spiritual consequences of indulging in excessive drinking.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

Drunkenness is often portrayed in the Bible as a catalyst for further sin. In Genesis 9:20-21, Noah's drunkenness leads to a shameful incident involving his sons, illustrating how intoxication can result in a loss of dignity and moral failure. Similarly, in Proverbs 23:29-35, the effects of alcohol are vividly described, painting a picture of woe, strife, and regret for those who overindulge.

The Bible encourages believers to exercise self-control and to avoid situations that may lead to drunkenness. In 1 Peter 5:8, Christians are urged to "be sober-minded and alert," recognizing that the devil seeks to exploit moments of weakness and lack of vigilance.

Cultural and Historical Context

In biblical times, wine was a common beverage, often consumed as part of daily life and religious ceremonies. However, the Bible distinguishes between moderate consumption and excessive drinking, the latter being consistently condemned. The cultural context of the ancient Near East and Greco-Roman world, where wine was prevalent, underscores the relevance of biblical warnings against drunkenness.

Practical Applications

For contemporary believers, the biblical teachings on drunkenness serve as a guide for maintaining a lifestyle that honors God. Christians are called to exercise moderation, self-discipline, and to avoid behaviors that lead to moral compromise. The Bible's emphasis on being filled with the Spirit rather than succumbing to the inflaming effects of alcohol remains a timeless principle for those seeking to live a life pleasing to God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 5:11
Woe to them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

How to Conduct Ourselves at Feasts.
... as in the day, not spending our time in rioting and drunkenness, in chambering ...
instruments, if you investigate, you will find to be warlike, inflaming to lusts ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter iv how to conduct ourselves.htm

2 Cor. Ix. 1
... And see how, whilst stirring up and inflaming them still more, he feigns to be ... as
long as thou spendest it upon thy belly and on drunkenness and dissipation ...
/.../homilies on the epistles of paul to the corinthians/homily xix 2 cor ix.htm

Letter Lv. Replies to Questions of Januarius.
... so useful for inducing a devotional frame of mind and inflaming the strength of
love ... before his baptism), than to one who drowned his intellect in drunkenness. ...
/.../augustine/the confessions and letters of st/letter lv replies to questions.htm

part i
... self-love, and that love is a false one; we love ourselves in objects unworthy of
the immortal soul"in silver and gold, in adultery, in drunkenness, and such ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part i.htm

The Resurrection of the Dead, and Eternal Judgment:
... Secondly, Take heed that thy heart be not overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness,
and the cares of this life, and so that day come upon thee unawares ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the resurrection of the dead.htm

The Greatness of the Soul,
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the greatness of the soul.htm