Re: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Will Alcohol Users Go to Hell?

Thank you Dr. Openiyi. Stated in a very thoughtful manner.

Elias

On 9/25/2023 6:25 AM, Toyin Falola wrote:

Alcohol is a drug, but the alcohol lobby is so powerful, that it prevents its characterization as such.

 

 

From: usaafricadialogue@googlegroups.com <usaafricadialogue@googlegroups.com> on behalf of Oyeniyi Bukola Adeyemi <oyeniyib@gmail.com>
Date: Monday, September 25, 2023 at 6:24 AM
To: USAAfricaDialogue <usaafricadialogue@googlegroups.com>
Subject: USA Africa Dialogue Series - Will Alcohol Users Go to Hell?

Will Alcohol Users Go to Hell?

 

On Sunday, September 24, 2023, during a Sunday School session, a middle-aged woman posed a question that sparked a lengthy debate: "Will Alcohol Users Go to Hell?" This inquiry was set against the backdrop of the Redeemed Christian Church's doctrinal stance, which strongly discouraged alcohol consumption, reflecting the prevailing sentiment within the congregation.

 

It is essential to highlight two distinct characteristics of this church that significantly influenced the opinions expressed. Firstly, the pastor held the position of a professor, and many church members were affiliated with the educational institution where she taught. Secondly, a substantial portion of the congregation consisted of young adults, many of whom had recently left their parental homes. These characteristics underscore the presence of implicit biases and assumptions that underpinned the perspectives shared during the debate.

 

Throughout the discussion, participants drew extensively from the Bible to support their viewpoints. Passages such as Ephesians 5:18 and Galatians 5:19-21 were cited as foundational to the church's stance on alcohol and as guidance for Christians to abstain from drinking. 

 

The primary focus of Christian criticism regarding alcohol consumption revolves around concerns related to potential misuse, harm, and its impact on one's spiritual and moral life. These concerns are certainly valid. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a loss of self-control and moral judgment, directly contradicting Christian values. Furthermore, it has been argued that the mere presence of alcohol can pose a stumbling block for those grappling with alcoholism or vulnerable to peer pressure, reinforcing the importance of avoiding situations that may lead others into sinful behavior.

 

Critics of alcohol use have also highlighted the array of health risks associated with it, including addiction, liver disease, and impaired judgment that can result in dangerous behaviors. The social consequences of excessive drinking, such as broken families, accidents, and violence, further underscore the potential harm caused by alcohol.

 

In addition to these concerns, passages like Proverbs 20:1 ("Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise") have been cited to caution against the potential deception and folly associated with alcohol.

 

However, it is imperative to acknowledge that the Bible does not categorically prohibit alcohol consumption but instead advises against drunkenness. Ephesians 5:18, for instance, counsels against becoming intoxicated rather than advocating total abstinence from alcohol.

 

Notably, the Bible contains instances where alcohol is used without condemnation. Jesus's turning of water into wine at the wedding in Cana (John 2:1-11) and Paul's advice to Timothy to use a little wine for medicinal purposes in 1 Timothy 5:23 demonstrate that alcohol had practical applications and was not inherently sinful.

 

Within Christianity, the concept of liberty is highly valued, recognizing humans as free-will agents. Adults, therefore, have the freedom to make choices regarding alcohol consumption within the boundaries of moral and legal permissibility. Moderation in alcohol use can be seen as responsible stewardship, aligning with the Bible's perspective that all plants and their derivatives are gifts of creation to be used for food and medicinal purposes, provided they are employed in ways that do not lead to harm or sinful behavior.

 

Importantly, Christians who advocate for a complete ban on alcohol use must contend with the fact that even Jesus himself partook of wine at the Last Supper, a significant event known as the Lord's Supper or the Eucharist. This event, documented in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, reflects the use of wine as a symbol of Jesus' blood, establishing the Christian practice of Communion. While some Christian denominations have adapted this practice by substituting wine with grape juice, the foundational symbolism remains unchanged.

 

Alcohol has historically held cultural and social significance, playing a pivotal role in various cultural practices and societal events. It has often served as a unifying element in social gatherings, celebrations, and traditional rituals, fostering social cohesion.

 

Furthermore, research has suggested potential health benefits associated with moderate alcohol consumption, including a reduced risk of heart disease. Some individuals have reported that moderate alcohol use contributes to relaxation and stress reduction, positively affecting mental well-being.

 

In conclusion, while it is essential to consider the concerns and criticisms surrounding alcohol consumption, it is equally vital to approach this topic with a nuanced understanding of biblical guidance, cultural context, and the potential for responsible and moderate use. Implicit biases and assumptions should be acknowledged, and the discussion should be enriched by a comprehensive examination of the relevant biblical passages and historical practices within Christianity.

 

(c) Bukola Adeyemi Oyeniyi 

September 25, 2023

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--   Elias Kifon Bongmba PhD, DTheo (Lund)  Harry and Hazel Chavanne Chair in Christian Theology  Professor of Religion  Associate Editor of Religion and Theology  Rice university  PO Box 1892 Houston TX 77251-1892  https://reli.rice.edu/faculty/elias-kifon-bongmba