Topical Bible: Kings: Specially Warned Against: Intemperance

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, kings and rulers are often depicted as figures of authority and responsibility, tasked with leading their people in accordance with divine principles. One of the significant warnings given to kings in the Scriptures is against the vice of intemperance, particularly in the form of excessive indulgence in alcohol and other behaviors that could impair judgment and leadership.

Proverbs and Wisdom Literature

The Book of Proverbs, a key source of wisdom literature in the Bible, provides explicit warnings to kings regarding intemperance. Proverbs 31:4-5 states, "It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to crave strong drink, lest they drink and forget what is decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of justice." This passage highlights the potential for alcohol to cloud judgment and lead to injustice, emphasizing the need for sobriety in leadership.

The Example of King Solomon

King Solomon, renowned for his wisdom, also serves as a cautionary figure regarding intemperance. Despite his initial adherence to divine wisdom, Solomon's later years were marked by excess and indulgence, as described in Ecclesiastes 2:3 : "I sought to cheer my body with wine and embrace folly—my mind still guiding me with wisdom—until I could see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives." Solomon's pursuit of pleasure ultimately led to a departure from the wisdom he once embodied, serving as a warning to future leaders.

The Downfall of Kings

The Bible records several instances where intemperance contributed to the downfall of kings. One notable example is King Belshazzar of Babylon, whose account is recounted in Daniel 5. During a great feast, Belshazzar indulged in excessive drinking, using sacred vessels from the Jerusalem temple. This act of sacrilege, combined with his intemperance, led to his downfall as prophesied by the writing on the wall, "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN" (Daniel 5:25), signifying the end of his reign.

The Role of Intemperance in Leadership

The warnings against intemperance for kings underscore the broader biblical principle that leaders are to exercise self-control and discernment. Intemperance, particularly in the form of alcohol abuse, is seen as a threat to the ability to govern justly and wisely. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in the New Testament, advising leaders to be "not given to drunkenness" (1 Timothy 3:3) as part of the qualifications for overseers and deacons.

Conclusion

The biblical admonitions against intemperance for kings serve as timeless reminders of the importance of self-control and moral integrity in leadership. By heeding these warnings, leaders can better fulfill their God-given responsibilities and lead their people with justice and wisdom.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 31:4,5
It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Letter Xciii. (AD 408. )
... styled Donatists, from Donatus, but also specially named Rogatists ... his companions
to be punished by the kings of the ... by his reply, and effectually warned not to ...
/.../augustine/the confessions and letters of st/letter xciii a d 408.htm

Of Prayer --A Perpetual Exercise of Faith. The Daily Benefits ...
... Believers ought to be specially on their guard never to ... righteousness of our fathers,
and of our kings." "Hear, O ... and that the people might be warned that they ...
/.../the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 20 of prayera perpetual.htm

Church Fabrics and Services.
... by drinking poor small beer; Soldier, be warned by his ... it must needs be a sinful
impediment against other duties ... For instance, it was specially observed at the ...
/.../the english church in the eighteenth century/chapter x church fabrics and.htm

Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ...
... we find in Manich??us an irrational fancy against having children ... at different times
to the two kings Abimelech and ... with honor, because he had been warned by God ...
/.../faustus states his objections to.htm