Is it okay to drink alcohol?

The Bible doesn't disallow it, as it allows us to eat or drink anything. But, there are so many negatives with drinking alcohol, we suggest that it should not be consumed.

Our bodies are the temple of God (1 Cor 6:19-20). We are to honor God with our bodies (Rom 12:1).

There are too many negative effects on the body to justify the positive, e.g. addiction, stomach & bowel diseases, brain damage, damage to nerves, heart & blood vessel diseases, sexual disorders, and bone & joint disorders. (from The Liver Centre)

It's hard to consistently stop at the right level (Prov 23:29-35). Maybe you will most of the time, but never all the time. The temptation is always there to have another drink. No one intends to become an alcoholic (test - do you have a drink more than 5 days a week? Can you abstain for 2 days every week?)

Drinking often is used to manage problems or stress. Instead of dealing with the problems in a constructive way, it masks the problem, and does not solve anything.

As Christians, your drinking is looked at negatively by others, both Christians and non-Christians. It does not shine a light (Matt 5:16), but conforms to the world (Rom 12:2). We are to abstain from every form of evil (1 Thess 5:21-22).

It may be a stumbling block for new or weak Christians or those who have struggled with alcoholism (Rom 14:13-21).

Even if you feel you have self-control with drinking, your children will do what you do, but won't have the control. (Matt 18:6)

For more information on this, see the Fast Fact on drinking alcohol