The Bible offers various perspectives on many aspects of life, including the consumption of alcohol. Two particular scriptures, Matthew 11:19 and Matthew 26:29, provide interesting insights into this topic in the context of heaven.
Matthew 11:19: Jesus, the Drinker
The scripture states, “Jesus came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at Jesus! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!” This verse portrays Jesus as someone who partook in the common practices of his time, which included eating and drinking. The criticism he faced for these actions reflects the societal norms and expectations of that era. However, it’s important to note that Jesus’ drinking did not imply overindulgence or drunkenness. Instead, it highlighted his willingness to engage with all members of society, even those deemed as ‘sinners’.
Matthew 26:29: Wine in Heaven
In Matthew 26:29, Jesus makes a significant statement during the Last Supper: “And I say to you, I shall not drink from this time, of this fruit of the vine (wine), until that day when I shall drink wine new with you, until I enter the kingdom of my Father.” This verse suggests a future event in the heavenly kingdom where Jesus will once again drink wine, but this time, it will be ‘new’ wine, shared in Heaven.
This promise of communal celebration in Heaven, marked by the drinking of the ‘new’ wine, provides a hopeful and anticipatory view of the afterlife.
John 8:32
Jesus said, "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Proverbs 31:6-7
Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, And wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. Let him drink, and forget his poverty, And remember his misery no more.
1 Timothy 5:23
No longer drink only water, but drink a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.
Genesis 14:18
And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. (He was priest of God Most High.)
Genesis 19:32
Come, let us make our father drink wine, and we will lie with him, that we may preserve offspring (babies) from our father (Lot).”
Numbers 28:7
Its drink offering shall be a quarter of a hin for each lamb. In the Holy Place you shall pour out a drink offering of strong drink to the Lord.
Deuteronomy 14:26
and spend the money for whatever you "desire"—oxen or sheep or wine or strong drink, whatever your appetite craves. And you shall eat there before the Lord your God and rejoice, you and your household.
Conclusion
The scriptures present a nuanced view of alcohol consumption, particularly in the context of Heaven. While Jesus partook in drinking during his earthly life, he also promised a unique experience of drinking ‘new’ wine in Heaven. These verses remind us of the communal and celebratory aspects of drinking, which are fully realized in the heavenly kingdom.
Comments