12 Bible Verses About Alcohol

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

This article explores Bible verses about alcohol and its use in various contexts.

While the Bible does not explicitly forbid the consumption of alcohol, it cautions against excessive drinking and emphasizes the importance of self-control and moderation.

The article also suggests relevant Bible chapters to read for further guidance and warnings about the dangers of excessive drinking and the importance of honoring God with our bodies.

Bible verses about alcohol

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about alcohol:

1. “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” – Proverbs 20:1
2. “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;” – Ephesians 5:18
3. “Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause? who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go to seek mixed wine.” – Proverbs 23:29-30
4. “It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:” – Proverbs 31:4
5. “And he saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.” – John 2:10
6. “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” – Romans 14:17

7. “Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, till wine inflame them!” – Isaiah 5:11
8. “Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder.” – Proverbs 23:31-32
9. “And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man’s heart.” – Psalm 104:15
10. “For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.” – Proverbs 23:21
11. “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” – Daniel 1:8
12. “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;” – Ephesians 5:18 (repeated for emphasis)

What does the Bible say about alcohol?

The Bible discusses alcohol in various contexts, including its use in religious ceremonies, as a symbol of joy and celebration, and as a potential source of temptation and sin.

While the Bible does not explicitly forbid the consumption of alcohol, it does caution against excessive drinking and drunkenness, which can lead to a range of negative consequences, including impaired judgment, violence, and addiction.

Additionally, the Bible emphasizes the importance of self-control and moderation in all aspects of life, including the use of alcohol.

Ultimately, the Bible encourages individuals to use their freedom to make wise choices that honor God and promote their own well-being and the well-being of others.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about alcohol?

1) Proverbs 23 – This chapter warns against the dangers of excessive drinking and advises against becoming drunk. It also emphasizes the importance of self-control and wisdom in regards to alcohol consumption.

2) Ephesians 5 – This chapter discusses the importance of living a life of love and holiness, and advises against drunkenness and debauchery. It also emphasizes the need to be filled with the Holy Spirit instead of being controlled by alcohol.

3) 1 Corinthians 6 – This chapter discusses the importance of honoring God with our bodies and avoiding sexual immorality. It also mentions that excessive drinking can lead to sinful behavior and can be harmful to our bodies.

These chapters are relevant to alcohol because they provide guidance and warnings about the dangers of excessive drinking and the importance of self-control and wisdom in regards to alcohol consumption. They also emphasize the importance of honoring God with our bodies and avoiding sinful behavior that can be associated with alcohol.

Ideas and concepts related to alcohol that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Drunkenness: The Bible warns against drunkenness, which is the state of being intoxicated by alcohol. Drunkenness can lead to reckless behavior, impaired judgment, and even addiction. The Bible advises against excessive drinking and encourages moderation.

2. Wine: Wine is mentioned frequently in the Bible, both as a symbol of joy and celebration and as a warning against excess. Wine is also used in religious ceremonies, such as the Eucharist in Christianity. The Bible encourages the responsible consumption of wine, but warns against drunkenness.

3. Temperance: Temperance is the practice of self-control and moderation, particularly in regards to alcohol. The Bible encourages temperance as a virtue and warns against the dangers of excess and addiction.

4. Sobriety: Sobriety is the state of being sober, or free from the effects of alcohol. The Bible encourages sobriety as a way to maintain self-control and make wise decisions.

5. Addiction: Addiction is a state of dependence on a substance, such as alcohol. The Bible warns against addiction and encourages self-control and moderation to avoid becoming enslaved to any substance.

Overall, the Bible encourages responsible drinking and warns against the dangers of excess and addiction. It encourages self-control and moderation as virtues to be practiced in all areas of life, including alcohol consumption.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.