In researching our topics for this series, we discovered that people were more concerned about social issues than they were concerned about spiritual matters. However, our findings did not show that people were less religious or spiritual; they were passionate about the issues.
Throughout this series, we have made the point about the negative impact of making assumptions about people, which leads to presumption and projection of our thoughts and feelings. We discussed the importance of examining and exploring other people's conditions, feelings, thoughts, and contexts, before making assumptions about them. We argued that there is usually a back story that connects people to some controversial issues. Some of the main controversial issues we discussed were gay marriage, abortion, women in leadership, types of worship music, spiritual gifts, baptism, and politics from the pulpit. Today, we will conclude this series by discussing alcohol.
Can Christians drink alcohol? Some argue that Christians should avoid drinking alcohol because their bodies are temples of God (1 Corinthians 6:19). This statement means that we are not our own. We cannot, therefore, use our bodies as though they were absolutely under our own control. It means that we should glorify God in our bodies. The context of this astounding assertion pertains to the avoidance of not just alcohol alone, but any act of immorality, that is if we consider drinking alcohol to be an act of immorality.
Conversely, others argue that drinking alcohol in moderation is okay because it is their right. Paul says we should “Be careful, however, that the exercise of our rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak” (1 Corinthians 8:9-13). Some observers argue that this text suggests that drinking alcohol is permitted, but Christians should be careful not to cause someone prone to alcohol abuse or someone who believes that drinking alcohol is a sin, to stumble in her/his faith by seeing another Christian drinking.
Many churches are considerate of "recovering alcoholics." To this end, they serve grape juice, while others serve wine. The phrase itself, "recovering alcoholics," is a slanderous and defaming label for anyone. Should not we consider why people drink alcohol in the first place? Why are people craving alcohol? Is it a loss of control? Are they perhaps in negative emotional states? Are they depressed? Are there biological or hereditary or genetic factors? Are there environmental factors? Are there social and psychological factors? Are they only social consumers of alcohol? If so, what is the big deal, some may argue? However, each of the above-named factors may play a role in the development of alcohol use or abuse.
Alcohol use or abuse can turn to alcoholism. Alcoholism is a disease that does not discriminate and can impact anyone. This disease, like many other diseases, does not consider age, gender, ethnicity, body type, or personal beliefs. So, let us not make assumptions about a brother or sister who drinks alcohol, whether they occasionally drink alcohol or whether they are addicted to alcohol. There is proven evidence-based treatment for alcohol addiction. One of the greatest treatments is support systems. What would it look like if we were to be partners and a network of supporters rather than making assumptions about others? Knowing a person’s context and frame of reference is a good place to begin.
Blessings to you!
Charles
