Jump to Questions

Many Christians are comfortable drinking alcohol while others aren’t. For those who do drink, scripture clearly teaches that drunkenness is sinful and is to be avoided by followers of Jesus. But how do we find the line between “getting buzzed” and “getting drunk?” And what challenges are there along the way?

[Related: Should Christians Drink Alcohol?]

[Related: Is It Wrong for Christians to Drink Alcohol?]

Video Highlights

  • Ephesians 5:18 instructs Christians to avoid drunkenness. Many people have hurt their families, themselves, and others by becoming addicted to alcohol or just by getting drunk one time.
  • It is not always easy to tell the difference between “getting buzzed” and “getting drunk.” Ryan suggests the difference can be noted when your behavior is altered and you do things you ordinarily wouldn’t do.
  • What are the safeguards we should operate under so as not to cross the line into drunkenness? Ryan suggests that a good gauge is to ask yourself why you are drinking in the first place. We should never turn to alcohol to “drown our sorrows.” In times of trouble, we are called to rely on and seek after God, not after a cold one.
  • For those who choose to drink, it is important to remain accountable to other believers. Galatians 6:2 reads, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 8:9-13 also instructs believers not to cause their brothers and sisters in the faith to “stumble” into sin by exercising their freedom.

[Related: Getting Drunk & Partying | Are Christians Missing Out #1]

[Related: Paul | Alcoholism and the Burden of Guilt]

Discussion Questions:

  3. Have you ever known someone who has struggled with alcohol abuse? What are some difficult things you observed from this person/these people? Share as much or as little as you are comfortable sharing.
  4. How do you define “getting buzzed” versus “getting drunk?” Do you think the two are substantially different? Explain.
  5. Do you think it is okay to “get buzzed?” Explain.
  6. What are some challenges connected to “learning your limits” when it comes to drinking alcohol? Explain.
  7. Read Galatians 5:19-21. How is this passage relevant to this discussion? Explain.
  8. In 1 Timothy 5:23, the Apostle Paul instructs his protege, Timothy, to drink wine to help settle his stomach. How is this verse relevant to this discussion? Explain.
  9. Is it sinful to drink alcohol at all? Explain.
  10. Write a personal action step based on this conversation.

Ministry Tools: