Beer in the Old Testament
Beer appears throughout the Old Testament as a common beverage in ancient Near Eastern culture. In Deuteronomy 14:26, Moses permits the Israelites to use their tithe money to purchase "beer" (shekar in Hebrew) as part of their celebration before the Lord, indicating that fermented beverages were not inherently sinful. Similarly, in 1 Samuel 1:15, Hannah clarifies to Eli that she has "drunk neither wine nor strong drink," using this declaration to emphasize her serious devotion during prayer—suggesting that abstaining from such beverages was a practice associated with heightened spiritual focus.
The book of Proverbs frequently addresses the dangers of excessive drinking. Proverbs 20:1 warns, "Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise" (NIV). This verse doesn't condemn the beverages themselves but rather condemns the foolishness and loss of judgment that comes from overindulgence. The wisdom literature consistently emphasizes moderation and self-control, values that remain central to Christian living today.
Principles for Responsible Living
The New Testament doesn't prohibit alcohol consumption but emphasizes wisdom and love for others. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul writes, "I have the right to do anything," he says—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but not everything is constructive" (NIV). This principle applies to any consumption choice, including beer. The overarching biblical concern isn't the substance itself but whether our choices glorify God and reflect self-control.
Romans 14 addresses the broader principle of Christian liberty and conscience. Paul instructs believers not to judge one another regarding food and drink preferences, while simultaneously warning against causing a weaker brother or sister to stumble. If someone struggles with alcohol or comes from a background of addiction, the loving response is to abstain in their presence. Ephesians 5:18 provides the clearest New Testament standard: "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit" (NIV). The contrast isn't between wine and the Spirit, but between drunkenness and Spirit-filling—between loss of control and surrendering to God's control.
A Practical Word for Today
As Canadian Christians, we live in a culture where beer consumption is normalized and widely available. The Bible's guidance is neither rigid prohibition nor careless indulgence, but wisdom. If you choose to enjoy a beer, do so in moderation, with gratitude to God as Provider, and with awareness of your own vulnerabilities and those around you. Many faithful believers choose complete abstinence—a choice equally honoring to God. What matters most is that our choices reflect the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
The question to ask yourself is not "Is this allowed?" but "Does this draw me closer to Christ and reflect His character in my life?" When we approach all of life's choices—including what we eat and drink—with this heart posture, we honor God and live out our calling to be salt and light in our communities.
"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit." — Ephesians 5:18 (NIV)