The Evangelical Herald
Bible Study No. 07-06
THE PROBLEM WITH SOCIAL DRINKING
I. Alcohol and the Christian Church
A. Some Christian Churches Accept Social Drinking
B. History of Alcohol in the U.S.
1. Legislated by Law -- Prohibition
2. Protestant Church was a Strong Force Against Alcohol
3. The Gradual Acceptance of Social Drinking in Mainline Churches
II. The Effects of Alcohol
A. The Difference Between Social Drinking and Drunkenness
B. The Pros and Cons of Alcohol
1. The Apparent Benefits of Moderation
Health, Relaxation, Cheer, Social Ambience2. The Evils of Excess
Health, Social Evils, Releases Inhibitions, Void of Spiritual Qualities C. What We Find in the Bible
1. Acceptance (Pslm 104:15) (1 Tim 5:23) (Prov 31:6,7)
2. Condemnation of Drunkenness (Prov 23:29-35)(Isa 5:11,12)(Eph 5:18)
III. Principles that Govern Us to Do the Will of God (Abstain)
A. Be Guided by Scriptures and Holy Spirit
B. Christian Responsibility Towards Our Neighbor (Rom 14:21)(1 Cor 9:13)
C. Avoid Every Form of Evil (1 Thess 5:23)
D. We Are the Temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 3:16,17)
E. Participation through Acceptance (Rom 1:32)