1. Drugs !

2. The Number One Drug Problem in the Country! What is It? How Do We Treat It? Copyright by Norman L. Geisler 2004

3. The Number One Drug! Its Deadly Effects:  It kills 200,000 people a year (1 every 3 min.)!  It is used 30 times more than other drugs  Almost half of Americans use it  Some 20 million Americans are addicted to it  Almost 70 % of 21 year olds use it  It costs society $166 billion a year  It is a key factor in 48% of all robberies  It is a key factor in 54% of all murders  It is a key factor in 62% of all assaults  It is a key factor in 68% of manslaughters  It is probably involved in 90% of all auto accidents Its Deadly Effects:  It kills 200,000 people a year (1 every 3 min.)!  It is used 30 times more than other drugs  Almost half of Americans use it  Some 20 million Americans are addicted to it  Almost 70 % of 21 year olds use it  It costs society $166 billion a year  It is a key factor in 48% of all robberies  It is a key factor in 54% of all murders  It is a key factor in 62% of all assaults  It is a key factor in 68% of manslaughters  It is probably involved in 90% of all auto accidents

4. The Number One Drug! What is it? Mariuana? No. Heroine? No. Cocaine? No. Alcohol? Yes! Mariuana? No. Heroine? No. Cocaine? No. Alcohol? Yes!

5. TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK? A Sober Look at the Question I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? III. Was new wine fermented? IV. Was fermented wine used as a beverage in the Bible? V. Does the Bible demand total abstinence from wine? VI Does Wine have other good usages in the Bible? I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? III. Was new wine fermented? IV. Was fermented wine used as a beverage in the Bible? V. Does the Bible demand total abstinence from wine? VI Does Wine have other good usages in the Bible?

6. TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK? VII. Are wine and strong drink the same? VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? XI. Some Objections Answered VII. Are wine and strong drink the same? VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users? IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? XI. Some Objections Answered

7.  Rom. 14:14: “As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that no food is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is unclean.”  1 Tim. 4:4: “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.”  Rom. 14:14: “As one who is in the Lord Jesus, I am fully convinced that no food is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is unclean.”  1 Tim. 4:4: “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving.” I. Is alcohol intrinsically evil? No.

8. II. Did biblical wine have alcohol in it? Yes.  1 Cor. 11:21: “For as you eat, each of you goes ahead without waiting for anybody else. One remains hungry, another gets drunk.”

9. III. Was new wine fermented? Yes.  Hos. 4:10-11: “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and new [wine], which take away the understanding.”  Hos. 4:10-11: “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and new [wine], which take away the understanding.”

10. III. Was new wine fermented? Yes.  Hos. 4:10-11: “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and new, which take away the understanding.”  Acts 2:13: “Others, mocking said, `They are full of new wine.” Note: Wine begins fermenting the first day in Palestine (“Wine” in ISBE).  Hos. 4:10-11: “They will eat but not have enough; they will engage in prostitution but not increase, because they have deserted the LORD to give themselves to prostitution, to old wine and new, which take away the understanding.”  Acts 2:13: “Others, mocking said, `They are full of new wine.” Note: Wine begins fermenting the first day in Palestine (“Wine” in ISBE).

11. IV.Was fermented wine used as a beverage in the Bible? Yes.  A. It was used at weddings (Jn. 2:9-10).  B. It was used at the Passover meals (Mt. 26:17, 27).  C. It was used at the Lord's Supper (1 Cor. 11:25).  D. It was used at regular meals (Gen. 14:18; Jud. 19:19).  A. It was used at weddings (Jn. 2:9-10).  B. It was used at the Passover meals (Mt. 26:17, 27).  C. It was used at the Lord's Supper (1 Cor. 11:25).  D. It was used at regular meals (Gen. 14:18; Jud. 19:19).

12. V.Does the Bible demand total abstinence from wine? No.  A. Paul told Timothy to take a "little" wine “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses” (1 Tim. 5:23).  B. Leaders should not drink “much wine” “Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain” (1 Tim. 3:8). “Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain” (1 Tim. 3:8).  A. Paul told Timothy to take a "little" wine “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses” (1 Tim. 5:23).  B. Leaders should not drink “much wine” “Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain” (1 Tim. 3:8). “Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain” (1 Tim. 3:8).

13. VI. Does Wine have other good usages in the Bible? Yes.  A.Proverbs said to use it as a sedative (Prov. 31:6): “Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are in anguish.”  B.The OT said it was used to revive the faint (2 Sam. 16:2): “The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride on, the bread and fruit are for the men to eat, and the wine is to refresh those who become exhausted in the desert.”  C. Luke said it was used as an antiseptic (Lk. 10:34): “He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him.”  D. Paul said to use it as a laxative (1 Tim. 5:23): “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach [intestines] and your frequent illnesses.” “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach [intestines] and your frequent illnesses.”  A.Proverbs said to use it as a sedative (Prov. 31:6): “Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are in anguish.”  B.The OT said it was used to revive the faint (2 Sam. 16:2): “The donkeys are for the king’s household to ride on, the bread and fruit are for the men to eat, and the wine is to refresh those who become exhausted in the desert.”  C. Luke said it was used as an antiseptic (Lk. 10:34): “He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him.”  D. Paul said to use it as a laxative (1 Tim. 5:23): “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach [intestines] and your frequent illnesses.” “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach [intestines] and your frequent illnesses.”

14. VII. Are wine and strong drink the same? No.  A. Strong drink has more alcohol in it.  B. Strong drink (shekar (OT)) differs from wine (tirosh (OT); oinos (NT)) or new wine (Yayin (OT); gleukos (NT)).

15. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  A.The physical effects: 1. It bites like a snake (Prov. 23:32). “In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.” “In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.” 2. It causes sickness (Jer. 25:27 cf. 51:39). “Then tell them, ‘This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Drink, get drunk and vomit, and fall to rise no more because of the sword I will send among you.’” “Then tell them, ‘This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Drink, get drunk and vomit, and fall to rise no more because of the sword I will send among you.’”  A.The physical effects: 1. It bites like a snake (Prov. 23:32). “In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.” “In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.” 2. It causes sickness (Jer. 25:27 cf. 51:39). “Then tell them, ‘This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Drink, get drunk and vomit, and fall to rise no more because of the sword I will send among you.’” “Then tell them, ‘This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: Drink, get drunk and vomit, and fall to rise no more because of the sword I will send among you.’”

16. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  A.The physical effects: 3. It causes emotional and physical harm (Prov. 23:29-30). “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” 4. It induces a stupor (Isa. 19:14 cf. 28:7-8). “The LORD has poured into them a spirit of dizziness; they make Egypt stagger in all that she does, as a drunkard staggers around in his vomit.”  A.The physical effects: 3. It causes emotional and physical harm (Prov. 23:29-30). “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” 4. It induces a stupor (Isa. 19:14 cf. 28:7-8). “The LORD has poured into them a spirit of dizziness; they make Egypt stagger in all that she does, as a drunkard staggers around in his vomit.”

17. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  A.The physical effects: 5. It causes one to vomit (Jer. 48:26). “Make her drunk, for she has defied the LORD. Let Moab wallow in her vomit; let her be an object of ridicule.” “Make her drunk, for she has defied the LORD. Let Moab wallow in her vomit; let her be an object of ridicule.” 6. It causes one to stagger (Job 12:25 cf. Isa. 19:14). “They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like drunkards.” “They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like drunkards.”  A.The physical effects: 5. It causes one to vomit (Jer. 48:26). “Make her drunk, for she has defied the LORD. Let Moab wallow in her vomit; let her be an object of ridicule.” “Make her drunk, for she has defied the LORD. Let Moab wallow in her vomit; let her be an object of ridicule.” 6. It causes one to stagger (Job 12:25 cf. Isa. 19:14). “They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like drunkards.” “They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like drunkards.”

18. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  A.The physical effects: 7. It numbs ones feelings (Prov. 23:30,35). “Do not gaze at wine when it is red....`They hit me,’ you will say, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?’” “Do not gaze at wine when it is red....`They hit me,’ you will say, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?’”  A.The physical effects: 7. It numbs ones feelings (Prov. 23:30,35). “Do not gaze at wine when it is red....`They hit me,’ you will say, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?’” “Do not gaze at wine when it is red....`They hit me,’ you will say, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?’”

19. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  B.The psychological effects: 8. It feeds self-centeredness (Hab. 2:5). “Indeed, wine betrays him; he is arrogant and never at rest. Because he [“the proud”-vs. 4] is as greedy as the grave and like death is never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the nations and takes captive all the peoples.” is as greedy as the grave and like death is never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the nations and takes captive all the peoples.” 9. It causes sorrow (Prov. 23:29-30). 9. It causes sorrow (Prov. 23:29-30). “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.”  B.The psychological effects: 8. It feeds self-centeredness (Hab. 2:5). “Indeed, wine betrays him; he is arrogant and never at rest. Because he [“the proud”-vs. 4] is as greedy as the grave and like death is never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the nations and takes captive all the peoples.” is as greedy as the grave and like death is never satisfied, he gathers to himself all the nations and takes captive all the peoples.” 9. It causes sorrow (Prov. 23:29-30). 9. It causes sorrow (Prov. 23:29-30). “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.”

20. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  B.The psychological effects: 10. It produces guilt (Isa. 24:20). “The earth reels like a drunkard, it sways l like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it is the guilt of its rebellion that it falls—never to rise again.” “The earth reels like a drunkard, it sways l like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it is the guilt of its rebellion that it falls—never to rise again.” 11. It causes depression (Isa. 24:9-11 cf. 16:9-10). (Isa. 24:9-11 cf. 16:9-10). “No longer do they drink wine with a song; the beer is bitter to its drinkers. The ruined city lies desolate; the entrance to every house is barred. In the streets they cry out for wine; all joy turns to gloom, all gaiety is banished from the earth.” “No longer do they drink wine with a song; the beer is bitter to its drinkers. The ruined city lies desolate; the entrance to every house is barred. In the streets they cry out for wine; all joy turns to gloom, all gaiety is banished from the earth.”  B.The psychological effects: 10. It produces guilt (Isa. 24:20). “The earth reels like a drunkard, it sways l like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it is the guilt of its rebellion that it falls—never to rise again.” “The earth reels like a drunkard, it sways l like a hut in the wind; so heavy upon it is the guilt of its rebellion that it falls—never to rise again.” 11. It causes depression (Isa. 24:9-11 cf. 16:9-10). (Isa. 24:9-11 cf. 16:9-10). “No longer do they drink wine with a song; the beer is bitter to its drinkers. The ruined city lies desolate; the entrance to every house is barred. In the streets they cry out for wine; all joy turns to gloom, all gaiety is banished from the earth.” “No longer do they drink wine with a song; the beer is bitter to its drinkers. The ruined city lies desolate; the entrance to every house is barred. In the streets they cry out for wine; all joy turns to gloom, all gaiety is banished from the earth.”

21. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  B.The psychological effects: 12.It causes delirium (Prov. 23:31-33). “Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine confusing things.” 13.It can cause insanity (Jer. 51:7). “Babylon was a gold cup in the LORD’s hand; she made the whole earth drunk. The nations drank her wine; therefore they have now gone mad.”  B.The psychological effects: 12.It causes delirium (Prov. 23:31-33). “Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. Your eyes will see strange sights and your mind imagine confusing things.” 13.It can cause insanity (Jer. 51:7). “Babylon was a gold cup in the LORD’s hand; she made the whole earth drunk. The nations drank her wine; therefore they have now gone mad.”

22. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  C.The social effects: 14.It leads to fighting (Prov. 2O:1). “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” 15.It leads to laziness (Prov. 23:21 cf. Zeph. 1:12). “For drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.”  C.The social effects: 14.It leads to fighting (Prov. 2O:1). “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” 15.It leads to laziness (Prov. 23:21 cf. Zeph. 1:12). “For drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.”

23. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  C.The social effects: 16.It leads to poverty (Prov. 21:17; 23:20-21). “He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.” 17.It makes one vulnerable to his enemies (2 Sam.13:28). “Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! When Amnon is in high spirits from drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be afraid.”  C.The social effects: 16.It leads to poverty (Prov. 21:17; 23:20-21). “He who loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich.” 17.It makes one vulnerable to his enemies (2 Sam.13:28). “Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! When Amnon is in high spirits from drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be afraid.”

24. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  D.The moral effects: 18.It perverts truth and justice (Isa 28:7 cf. Hos. 4:11). “And these also stagger from wine and reel from beer: Priests and prophets stagger from beer and are befuddled with wine; they reel from beer, they stagger when seeing visions, they stumble when rendering decisions.” “And these also stagger from wine and reel from beer: Priests and prophets stagger from beer and are befuddled with wine; they reel from beer, they stagger when seeing visions, they stumble when rendering decisions.”  D.The moral effects: 18.It perverts truth and justice (Isa 28:7 cf. Hos. 4:11). “And these also stagger from wine and reel from beer: Priests and prophets stagger from beer and are befuddled with wine; they reel from beer, they stagger when seeing visions, they stumble when rendering decisions.” “And these also stagger from wine and reel from beer: Priests and prophets stagger from beer and are befuddled with wine; they reel from beer, they stagger when seeing visions, they stumble when rendering decisions.”

25. VIII. What are the effects of strong drink on the users?  D.The moral effects: I 9.It leads to sexual immorality (cf. Gen. 19:33 cf. 9:20-24). “That night they got their father [Lot] to drink wine, and the older daughter went in and lay with him. He was not aware of it when she lay down or when she got up.” 20. It leads to other crimes (Joel 3:3 cf. Hab. 2:15). “They cast lots for my people and traded boys for prostitutes; they sold girls for wine that they might drink.”  D.The moral effects: I 9.It leads to sexual immorality (cf. Gen. 19:33 cf. 9:20-24). “That night they got their father [Lot] to drink wine, and the older daughter went in and lay with him. He was not aware of it when she lay down or when she got up.” 20. It leads to other crimes (Joel 3:3 cf. Hab. 2:15). “They cast lots for my people and traded boys for prostitutes; they sold girls for wine that they might drink.”

26. IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yes  A.It was forbidden for OT priests (Lev. 10:8-9): “Then the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your sons are not to drink wine or other fermented drink whenever you go into the Tent of Meeting, or you will die. This is a lasting ordinance for the generations to come.”  B.It was forbidden for Nazarites (Num. 6:3). “He must abstain from wine and other fermented drink and must not drink vinegar made from wine or from other fermented drink. He must not drink grape juice or eat grapes or raisins.”  A.It was forbidden for OT priests (Lev. 10:8-9): “Then the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your sons are not to drink wine or other fermented drink whenever you go into the Tent of Meeting, or you will die. This is a lasting ordinance for the generations to come.”  B.It was forbidden for Nazarites (Num. 6:3). “He must abstain from wine and other fermented drink and must not drink vinegar made from wine or from other fermented drink. He must not drink grape juice or eat grapes or raisins.”

27. IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yes  C. It was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.”  C. It was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.”

28. IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yes  C. It was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.” D. It is forbidden for all persons (Prov. 20:1). “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”  C. It was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.” D. It is forbidden for all persons (Prov. 20:1). “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”

29. IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yes  C. It was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.” D. It is forbidden for all persons (Prov. 20:1). “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”  E. It brings God's woe on all who drinks it (Isa. 5:11). “Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.” “Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.”  C. It was forbidden for kings and rulers (Prov. 31:4-5) “ “It is not for kings, Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, nor for rulers to say, Where is the strong drink? —lest they drink and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the children of affliction.” D. It is forbidden for all persons (Prov. 20:1). “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”  E. It brings God's woe on all who drinks it (Isa. 5:11). “Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.” “Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.”

30. IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yes  F.It makes one drunk which is a sin (Rom. 13:13). “Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.” “Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God” (1Cor. 6:9-10 cf. Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:18).  F.It makes one drunk which is a sin (Rom. 13:13). “Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.” “Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God” (1Cor. 6:9-10 cf. Gal. 5:19-21; Eph. 5:18).

31. IX. Should believers abstain from strong drink? Yes  G.It can cause another brother to stumble (Rom. 14:21). “It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.”  G.It can cause another brother to stumble (Rom. 14:21). “It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.”

32. X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? Yes  A. Undiluted wine was "strong drink" in Bible times. Homer 20 to1 Alexis 4 to 1 Pliny 8 to 1 Diocles 2 to 1 Euenos 3 to 1 Ion 3 to 1 Hesiod 3 to 1 1 to 1 was considered barbaric (See Robert Stein "Wine-Drinking in NT Times." CT, 6/20/75) (See Robert Stein "Wine-Drinking in NT Times." CT, 6/20/75)  B. Jewish Wine was mixed with water. Jewish Gemara (Vol. 7, note 5) says: Wine “was not fit for drinking without first being diluted with water.” 2 Maccabees: “...it is harmful to drink wine alone, or, again, to drink water alone, while wine mixed with water is sweet and delicious and enhances one’s enjoyment....” (2Mac. 15:39).  A. Undiluted wine was "strong drink" in Bible times. Homer 20 to1 Alexis 4 to 1 Pliny 8 to 1 Diocles 2 to 1 Euenos 3 to 1 Ion 3 to 1 Hesiod 3 to 1 1 to 1 was considered barbaric (See Robert Stein "Wine-Drinking in NT Times." CT, 6/20/75) (See Robert Stein "Wine-Drinking in NT Times." CT, 6/20/75)  B. Jewish Wine was mixed with water. Jewish Gemara (Vol. 7, note 5) says: Wine “was not fit for drinking without first being diluted with water.” 2 Maccabees: “...it is harmful to drink wine alone, or, again, to drink water alone, while wine mixed with water is sweet and delicious and enhances one’s enjoyment....” (2Mac. 15:39).

33. X. Is regular beer and wine used today strong drink? Yes  C.One part of wine to just three parts of water is not intoxicating. 1. It takes 20 glasses of it to get drunk (That's three trips to the rest-room first!) (That's three trips to the rest-room first!) 2. Used, as they did, in diluted forms with meals blunted its effects.  D.Strong drink is forbidden for believers. 1. Today’s Beer and wine are strong drink by biblical standards. 2. The Bible forbids using strong drink as a beverage. 2. The Bible forbids using strong drink as a beverage. 3. Therefore, the Bible forbids drinking beer or 3. Therefore, the Bible forbids drinking beer or wine (or using any like or stronger drugs). wine (or using any like or stronger drugs).  C.One part of wine to just three parts of water is not intoxicating. 1. It takes 20 glasses of it to get drunk (That's three trips to the rest-room first!) (That's three trips to the rest-room first!) 2. Used, as they did, in diluted forms with meals blunted its effects.  D.Strong drink is forbidden for believers. 1. Today’s Beer and wine are strong drink by biblical standards. 2. The Bible forbids using strong drink as a beverage. 2. The Bible forbids using strong drink as a beverage. 3. Therefore, the Bible forbids drinking beer or 3. Therefore, the Bible forbids drinking beer or wine (or using any like or stronger drugs). wine (or using any like or stronger drugs).

34. XI. Some Objections Answered  A.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented. 1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. 2:3-14).  A.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented. 1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. 2:3-14).

35. XI. Some Objections Answered  A.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented. 1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. 2:3-14). Answer: a. This refers to foods, not drinks. a. This refers to foods, not drinks. b. Wine is not mentioned here as forbidden. b. Wine is not mentioned here as forbidden. c. Even new wine was fermented (Hos. 4:11). c. Even new wine was fermented (Hos. 4:11). d. Jewish practice at Passover was fermented wine mixed with water (2 Mac. 15:39). d. Jewish practice at Passover was fermented wine mixed with water (2 Mac. 15:39). e. It caused drunkenness at Communion (1 Cor. 11:21). e. It caused drunkenness at Communion (1 Cor. 11:21).  A.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented. 1. Fermented wine was leavened, and all leaven was forbidden in the Passover (Lev. 2:3-14). Answer: a. This refers to foods, not drinks. a. This refers to foods, not drinks. b. Wine is not mentioned here as forbidden. b. Wine is not mentioned here as forbidden. c. Even new wine was fermented (Hos. 4:11). c. Even new wine was fermented (Hos. 4:11). d. Jewish practice at Passover was fermented wine mixed with water (2 Mac. 15:39). d. Jewish practice at Passover was fermented wine mixed with water (2 Mac. 15:39). e. It caused drunkenness at Communion (1 Cor. 11:21). e. It caused drunkenness at Communion (1 Cor. 11:21).

36. XI. Some Objections Answered  A.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented. 2. Some argue that "wine" (yayin) is non-alcoholic, since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33).  A.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented. 2. Some argue that "wine" (yayin) is non-alcoholic, since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33).

37. XI. Some Objections Answered  A.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented. 2. Some argue that "wine" (yayin) is non-alcoholic, since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33). Answer: a. These verses speak of the source of the wine from the press, not its present fermented status. b. Hosea 4:11 (and Acts 2:13) says yayin can intoxicate.  A.Objection that biblical wine was not fermented. 2. Some argue that "wine" (yayin) is non-alcoholic, since it came from a winepress (Deut. 28:39; Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33). Answer: a. These verses speak of the source of the wine from the press, not its present fermented status. b. Hosea 4:11 (and Acts 2:13) says yayin can intoxicate.

38. XI. Some Objections Answered  B. Objection based on Isaiah being against mixed wine and water. “Your silver has become dross, your choice wine is diluted with water” (Isa. 1:22). Answer: This is not about literal wine mixing. It is a metaphor about their lives that had become diluted or adulterated.  B. Objection based on Isaiah being against mixed wine and water. “Your silver has become dross, your choice wine is diluted with water” (Isa. 1:22). Answer: This is not about literal wine mixing. It is a metaphor about their lives that had become diluted or adulterated.

39. XI. Some Objections Answered  C. Objection that mixing wine is prohibited in Proverbs 23:29, 30: “Who has woe?... Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” Answer: It is not referring to mixing wine with water but with other alcoholic drinks. This is evident from the fact that it “bites like a serpent” (v. 32) when one mixes wines. This does not happen when one mixes wine with water.  C. Objection that mixing wine is prohibited in Proverbs 23:29, 30: “Who has woe?... Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.” Answer: It is not referring to mixing wine with water but with other alcoholic drinks. This is evident from the fact that it “bites like a serpent” (v. 32) when one mixes wines. This does not happen when one mixes wine with water.

40. XI. Some Objections Answered  D. Objections that Paul said strong drink is OK. 1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23).  D. Objections that Paul said strong drink is OK. 1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23).

41. XI. Some Objections Answered  D. Objections that Paul said strong drink is OK. 1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23). Answer: a. It was not strong drink but diluted drink. b. He said take a little, not a lot. c. It was for medicinal, not recreational, use. d. He was told to hit the medicine bottle, not the beer bottle. d. He was told to hit the medicine bottle, not the beer bottle. e. It was used to be healthy, not to feel happy. f. It was use as a laxative, not a relaxative.  D. Objections that Paul said strong drink is OK. 1. Paul said to drink wine (1 Tim. 5:23). Answer: a. It was not strong drink but diluted drink. b. He said take a little, not a lot. c. It was for medicinal, not recreational, use. d. He was told to hit the medicine bottle, not the beer bottle. d. He was told to hit the medicine bottle, not the beer bottle. e. It was used to be healthy, not to feel happy. f. It was use as a laxative, not a relaxative.

42. XI. Some Objections Answered  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.”

43. XI. Some Objections Answered  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such.  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such.

44. XI. Some Objections Answered  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink.  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink.

45. XI. Some Objections Answered  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink. c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink. c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage.

46. XI. Some Objections Answered  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink. c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was diluted.  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink. c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was diluted.

47. XI. Some Objections Answered  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink. c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was diluted. f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel & storage.  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink. c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was diluted. f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel & storage.

48. XI. Some Objections Answered  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink. c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was diluted. f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel & storage. g. “Rejoicing” is never used of “getting high” or drunk. It was what they did consciously “in the presence of the LORD” in connection with eating as a family. It was what they did consciously “in the presence of the LORD” in connection with eating as a family.  E. Objection that Deut.14:26 says: buy strong drink (shekar): “Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.” a. He only said buy strong drink, not to drink it as such. b. It tells only of eating food, not of drinking strong drink. c. It was used for other purposes than as a beverage. e. When used as a beverage, it was diluted. f. It was bought in concentrated form for travel & storage. g. “Rejoicing” is never used of “getting high” or drunk. It was what they did consciously “in the presence of the LORD” in connection with eating as a family. It was what they did consciously “in the presence of the LORD” in connection with eating as a family.

49. ConclusionConclusion  Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.

50. ConclusionConclusion  Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.  Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.  Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.

51. ConclusionConclusion  Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.  Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.  Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine or beer.  Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.  Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.  Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine or beer.

52. ConclusionConclusion  Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.  Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.  Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine or beer.  “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18)  Undiluted biblical wine or beer was strong drink.  Strong drink is forbidden in Scripture.  Hence, the Bible forbids drinking regular wine or beer.  “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18)

53. Prohibition was Good  Death from cirrhosis dropped 66%  Alcohol related psychosis decreased 60%  Arrest for disorderly conduct went down 54%  Family-related problems declined significantly  Alcohol consumption slid to an all-time low  Alcoholism diminished dramatically  Death from cirrhosis dropped 66%  Alcohol related psychosis decreased 60%  Arrest for disorderly conduct went down 54%  Family-related problems declined significantly  Alcohol consumption slid to an all-time low  Alcoholism diminished dramatically