Topical Encyclopedia Wine holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, often symbolizing joy, celebration, and divine blessing. It is also recognized for its strengthening properties, both physically and spiritually, within the context of Scripture. The Bible presents wine as a gift from God that can bring strength and refreshment when used appropriately.Physical Strengthening In the Bible, wine is frequently associated with physical nourishment and strength. In 1 Timothy 5:23, the Apostle Paul advises Timothy, "Stop drinking only water and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent ailments." Here, wine is recommended for its medicinal properties, suggesting its role in providing physical relief and strengthening the body. The Psalms also highlight wine's capacity to strengthen and gladden the heart. Psalm 104:14-15 states, "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." This passage underscores wine's role in sustaining and invigorating the human spirit, alongside other essential provisions from God. Spiritual Strengthening Wine is also depicted as a symbol of spiritual strength and blessing. In the Old Testament, wine is often associated with covenantal blessings and the abundance of God's provision. Proverbs 3:9-10 encourages believers to "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine." This imagery of overflowing wine signifies the strength and prosperity that come from living in obedience to God. The New Testament continues this theme, particularly in the context of the Last Supper. Jesus uses wine as a symbol of His blood, shed for the forgiveness of sins, during the institution of the Lord's Supper. In Matthew 26:27-28, Jesus says, "Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you. This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'" Here, wine represents the spiritual strength and renewal found in the new covenant through Christ's sacrifice. Caution and Moderation While wine is acknowledged for its strengthening qualities, the Bible also warns against its misuse. Proverbs 20:1 cautions, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise." The Scriptures advocate for moderation and self-control, recognizing that excessive consumption can lead to moral and physical downfall. In Ephesians 5:18, believers are instructed, "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." This verse contrasts the temporary and potentially destructive effects of drunkenness with the enduring and strengthening presence of the Holy Spirit. In summary, wine in the Bible is portrayed as a source of strength and joy, a symbol of God's blessing and provision. It is to be enjoyed with gratitude and moderation, reflecting the balance between physical enjoyment and spiritual responsibility. Torrey's Topical Textbook 2 Samuel 16:2And the king said to Ziba, What mean you by these? And Ziba said, The asses be for the king's household to ride on; and the bread and summer fruit for the young men to eat; and the wine, that such as be faint in the wilderness may drink. Torrey's Topical Textbook Songs 2:5 Library The Best Strengthening Medicine The Duty of Constant Communion JW Religion Pleasant to the Religious. On Drinking. Eucharistic Doctrine. The Invasion of Greece and the Battle of Marathon. Redemption (Continued) Of Bodily Patience. Psalm LXXV. Joy 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 |