The Road to a Serpent’s Bite

The wise man Solomon gave specific warnings that most people ignore. He said that a loose tongue will get you into trouble (Prov. 18:7). He warned that pride will bring a man low (Prov. 16:18). He said that toying with lust is like playing with fire (Prov. 6:25-29). Millions pay a heavy price every day because they refuse to listen to these sound words of inspired counsel.

Solomon gave similar warnings about drinking alcohol. “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise” (Prov. 20:1). A man is foolish if he thinks he can control it. The very nature of alcohol is that it lowers restraint. It removes inhibitions. The first drink makes it easier to have the second and the second the third. A man who is under its influence will not be concerned about drinking in “moderation” or talking and acting with good judgment. He has compromised his self-control.

The wise man also said, “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaints? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who linger long at the wine, those who go in search of mixed wine. Do not look on the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it swirls around smoothly; at the last it bites like a serpent, and stings like a viper” (Prov. 23:29-32).

Many say this only means that getting drunk is wrong and that drinking in “moderation” (to which they give a fuzzy definition to say the least) is biblical. But compare this to what Solomon said about lust in Proverbs 6. He warned against lust because it may lead to adultery. That doesn’t mean that lust is innocent or that lusting in moderation is acceptable as long s a person doesn’t commit adultery. The same is true of drinking. Solomon doesn’t any more teach that drunkenness is wrong but drinking is alright than he means that adultery is sinful but lusting for a woman is acceptable. He warns against drunkenness and the misery it brings and says to avoid it before starting it. Don’t “look on” it or long for it. He said not even to long for a “cup” of it! If that is not a command to avoid drinking, what would be?

Kerry

West End church of Christ • January 26, 2025