The wrong use of alcoholic substances that results in drunkenness is a sin against God. It has caused untold misery and countless premature deaths. The apostle Paul wrote: "Do not give way to drunkenness and the ruin that goes with it" (Ephesians 5:18, Revised English Bible).

Abuse of alcohol causes untold harm to the abuser, his or her family and society. And drunkenness can keep a person out of the Kingdom of God (Galatians 5:21).

Christ instructed Christians to take wine as part of the Passover service (1 Corinthians 11:25-26). Paul was also careful to teach responsible, moderate alcohol consumption. In the context of this instruction, Paul corrected some of the Corinthian church for getting drunk at the Passover (1 Corinthians 11:21).

People with an inherent proclivity toward alcoholism should not use alcohol, even in moderation. Those under the legal drinking age should obey the law, and no one should feel that they have to drink on social occasions. But most people can learn to avoid the abuses so prevalent in society today and can properly use alcoholic beverages in moderation if they desire.