Subject: making wine.Did Jesus make a mistake. |
Bible Note: Greetings John! I think you misunderstood my intent my friend! I have never tried to say 'this is the only Biblical position and you must agree with me'. I readily admit that much of this discussion does fall under the category of personal scruples. My point has always been to simply 'proclaim' that many have erroneously maintained that 'wine' in the Bible always means an alcoholic beverage. The approach usually sounds something like: "We all know that wine can't be grape juice (wink wink)". Yet, the meaning of the original terms are never actually dealt with. My point has always simply been: Do the hard work to investigate the meanings of words, don't just assume that 'wine' in the Bible always means exactly what 'wine' means today. I have never found a single verse which prohibits the drinking of any alcohol, but neither have I found a single verse which commands us to drink alcohol. But as Christians, we certainly do have to weigh the possible costs and benefits of our actions. Will drinking alcohol glorify Christ? Will it make me more in control of my actions? Will it help me physically? Will it help my testimony? I honestly don't think that the answer to any of these questions is yes. But, that is just the position I have adopted as my own! :-) When asked as a pastor, I lay out both sides of the arguement, state where I have arrived, and advise prayer to seek God's will for their lives. I never say, 'Here is what you must do!'. I hope that clears up my position my friend! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |