Truth Magazine

By Hoyt H. Houchen

Question: Is it permissible for a Christian to drink alcoholic beverages, such as beer and wine in moderation, in view of Luke 7.34, John 2:1-11 and Romans 14:21?

Reply: The above Scriptures are used by some (including even members of the church) to prove that it is right to drink alcoholic beverages in moderation. Their conclusion is based upon assumption.

Luke 7:34 is referred to in an effort to prove that Jesus drank wine. The context of this verse is that Jesus had compared the Jews to children who played games in the market place (v. 32). They were hard to please. They criticized John the Baptist for the way he lived, and charged him with having a demon (v. 33). Then to further illustrate their childishness, he quoted them as saying: “The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a wine bibber, friend of publicans and sinners” (v. 34).

It must be considered first that the charge made against Jesus in Luke 7:34, that he was “a gluttonous man and a wine bibber,” was false. It was a lie concocted by his malicious enemies. He was not guilty of either charge. Had he been what they said he was, he would have violated every Old Testament teaching that prohibited the drinking of alcoholic beverages (Prov. 20:1; 23:20,21, 29-33; Isa. 5:11,22; etc.). The word “glutton” is defined by Webster: “excess in eating and drinking.” He defines “a glutton” as, “one given habitually to greedy and voracious eating and drinking” (Ninth Collegiate Dictionary, p. 523). The Oxford Universal Dictionary renders the term “winebibber” “given to wine” (Greek-English Lexicon, p. 443). Thus the charge made against Jesus was nothing short of blasphemy.

The enemies of Jesus also accused him of eating with publicans and sinners, implying that he was devoted to their sinful indulgences. Knowing these charges to be false, no refutation was necessary. Unable to answer his teaching, they attacked his character. Jesus closed his reference to their charges by simply saying, “And wisdom is justified of all her children” (v. 35). Jesus offered the hope of salvation to all who would obey him, even those with whom his accusers would have nothing to do. Some did accept him, thus wisdom was thereby justified by “all her children,” those guided by divine teaching.

But it is argued, that although Jesus was not gluttonous and a wine bibber as charged; nevertheless, he must have drunk intoxicating wine in moderation. His accusers were aware that he ate and drank wine, even though the charge that he did so to excess was false, we are told. This is only a supposition without proof. Jesus lived a pure life upon this earth; he was without sin, and there is nothing that even implies that he indulged in drinking intoxicating beverages. Such action was not compatible with his character and teaching.

John 2:1-11 is referred to as proof that Jesus drank intoxicating wine. It is an assumption, that because Jesus performed a miracle at a wedding feast and turned water into wine, that we are therefore authorized to drink intoxicating wine. In the first place, it cannot be proved from the Greek word oinos itself the amount of alcohol content. Young’s Analytical Concordance simply defines the word “wine, grape juice.” Since the question of whether or not Jesus drank intoxicating wine cannot be settled by the word oinos, we must turn to other considerations. Certainly Jesus would not endorse by his action that which is forbidden throughout the Scriptures, as we have observed. He gave us a perfect example to follow (1 Pet. 2:21f) and we can be assured that he would not have part in any indulgence which would promote the misery and shame that alcoholic beverages have caused among mankind. It is inconceivable that, if he were on earth today, he would drink wine as we know it today. Nor can we conceive of a person who wants to follow Jesus engaging in the act.

Paul wrote in Romans 14:21, “It is good not to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor to do anything whereby thy brother stumbleth. ” Here is a principle set forth to guide the children of God. We should forego any privilege that will cause someone else to sin. In view of what the Scriptures teach on the use of wine and intoxicants, neither does this verse justify their use even in moderation. And, even if one thinks he can drink in moderation without harming himself, he should think about what he may lead others to do. Indeed, “social” drinking (drinking in moderation) is not a good example and is not becoming of a Christian whose life should be beyond reproach. Christians cannot be too cautious about their influence in a world where sin is the normal state. Paul admonished, “abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thess. 5:22).

There is nothing in the Scriptures included in the question, nor in any others that will justify a Christian to drink alcoholic beverages. The medicinal use of alcoholic contents is another matter and not the subject of our consideration here.

Guardian of Truth XXXI: 21, p. 649
November 5, 1987

By Ron Halbrook

Many media ministers suffer from money mania. God warns that all kinds of evil will follow this malady:

They that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil (1 Tim. 6:9-10).

Lust for money opens the door to unethical means and ungodly methods of obtaining money. Witness the spectacle of Oral Roberts claiming a 900-foot-tall Jesus appeared and later that God threatened to kill Oral if people did not send him an extra $8 million. The love of money unleases other inordinate desires. Witness Jim Bakker’s sexual escapade and his wife’s drug addiction. Grabbing big bucks often sets off a power struggle. The media ministers’ soap opera includes stories of slush funds and hush money, extortion and blackmail, threats and counter-threats.

The abuse of money, power, and sex is not new in the American religious scene. Aimee Semple McPherson (1890-1944) or “Sister Aimee” was a noted Pentecostal “healer” who promoted magnetic fund raising schemes, built the $1.5 million Angelus Temple in Los Angeles in 1923, and established the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1927. Her ministry was marked by sensationalism, power struggles, and a sexual scandal in 1926. She died of an overdose of barbiturates. Billy James Hargis of Tulsa, Oklahoma was a fire-eating “fundamentalist” preacher often in the news until his sexual encounters with males and females were exposed. The Worldwide Church of God was rocked in the mid-1970s by charges and counter-charges over money, sex, and power involving both the founder, Herbert W. Armstrong (1892-1986), and his son, Garner Ted.

All men are subject to the temptations and dangers associated with lust for mammon, yet Jesus especially condemned the hypocrisy of professed religious leaders who hurt the cause of truth by their covetousness (Matt. 6:24; Mk. 12:40). False teachers are especially susceptible to such sins. At the root of every false doctrine is the appeal of worldly and ungodly principles, mixed with enough truth to increase its lure, which explains the great crowds and large sums of money often associated with error (1 Jn. 2:15-17; 4:5-6). Sin and error are debilitating – they “increase unto more ungodliness” and “wax worse and worse” (2 Tim. 2:16; 3:13).

Let’s compare and contrast what the Bible says with what we see today:

What The Bible Says	What We See Today
1. Men Destitute of the Truth Think Religion Is a Way of Gain (1 Tim. 6:5).	1. Media Minister’s Message: Send money, more money, & much more money!
2. Peter Told One Who Tried to Get the Blessings With Money: “thy money perish with thee” (Acts 8:20).	2. Oral Roberts Says All Who Send Him $$$: “Come into Agreement with Me” to Get From God All the “Money,” “Health,” & “Spiritual Power” They Need.
3. No New Testament Apostle or Preacher Amassed a Vast Financial Empire or lived in a Palatial Mansion, But They Made Every Sacrifice to Spread the Gospel (2 Cor. 11:23-33).	3. Many Media Ministers Amass a Vast Financial Empire & Live in Palatial Mansions (some own several).
4. Preachers Drew the Lost by Preaching the Gospel of Christ, Not by Attaching Entertainment, Schools & Medical Services to the Church (Rom. 1:16; 1 Tim. 3:15-16).	4. Robert Schuller, Jim Bakker, Jimmy Swaggart, Oral Roberts & Jerry Falwell Mix Entertainment, School & Medical Services with the Gospel & the Church.
5. God Taught Christians to Give for the Work of the Local Church on the First Day of the Week – As Each Prospers, No Certain Amount (1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:7).	5. False Religions Take Up $$$ Almost Every Time They Gather – Some Require Added 10 percent Levy & Keep Records on Member’s Giving.
6. God Promised the Age of Miracles Would End When All Revelation Needed to Complete the Bible was Finished (1 Cor. 13:8-13).	6. Roberts, Bakker, Swaggart, Pat Robertson, Kenneth Copeland, James Robison, Ken Hagin, et. al. Claim Miracles Did Not End When The Bible Was Finished.
7. Bible Preachers Said Sinners Are Saved by Grace When They Believe the Gospel, Repent of Sins, Confess Christ & Are Baptized (Mk. 16:16; Rom. 10:10; Acts 2:38).	7. False Teachers from Oral Roberts to Jerry Falwell Say Sinners Are Saved When They Believe & Pray for Jesus to Come Into the Heart.

The church of Christ is still preaching and practicing just what you can read in your Bible. We are interested in your soul not your money!

Guardian of Truth XXXI: 21, p. 651
November 5, 1987

By Kevin A. Suic

If a poll were taken of Christians in this country concerning where the most success in evangelism would be, reformatories or prisons would not likely be very high on the list. In fact, “prison evangelism” is considered by many to be a waste of time. Indeed, there have been many more failures than successes in prisons. However, I would like to share with you a wonderful work taking place in the Indiana State Reformatory in Pendleton, Indiana.

The History

In July of 1980, Walter and Hazel Maley of the Woodland Hills, Marion, IN church contacted Arnold Thompson of the South Noblesville, IN church about visiting Roger Dockery, an inmate at Pendleton. Brother Thompson asked Alan Jones, the local preacher, to go with him. Through the efforts of several Christians, Roger was soon converted to Christ. In the spring of 1981, Roger was granted clemency by the Governor because the change in his life was apparent to all. Since that time, he has begun a business in furniture upholstering, a trade which he learned in prison. In 1982, he married the former Brenda Hood, a Christian and member of the Fort Wayne, IN church. They now have a son. He and his family are faithful members of the Fort Wayne church, where he is now a Bible class teacher and occasionally preaches a sermon.

After the conversion of Roger Dockery, Alan Jones continued to go once a week to Pendleton to teach the Gospel. In August of 1981, Phil Morgan joined Alan in the work. By September of 1985, opportunities had multiplied so much that Joe McCameron and I were asked to help. The four of us going at least every other week since 1985 has caused the opportunities to grow greatly. Contacts have almost continually been made.

The Present Status

Earlier this year, due to the great opportunities and need, Alan Jones decided to devote all of his time to this work. Alan goes to Pendleton Monday – Thursday of every week. He studies with at least two men every day. Phil, Joe, and I continue to go once a week. All together, fourteen inmates are presently studying the Bible once a week. Our Bible studies are organized. We have a four lesson series which we study with each new contact. This series is designed to lead one to Christ. By the end of this series, we can usually determine their sincerity and what their further needs are. We also teach lessons on the Book of Acts, Denominationalism, Evidences, and Authority to those who have need of such lessons. For those who are new converts, we have a series of lessons to help them mature in Christ. One Christian is presently studying Bible History and Geography. In addition to our classes, we send Bible correspondence courses and reading material to those who request such.

Our present goal in addition to spreading the Word even more, is to get what is called a “count-letter.” This is where up to fifteen inmates can meet with a group from the outside for two hours. This would provide several opportunities: (1) The Christians in there could worship together and form a sense of unity; (2) They would be able to meet other Christians from the outside; (3) The gospel could be preached to an audience of inmates. Eventually, we also hope to arrange something where the Christians can assemble on Sunday to commune.

Success And Failure

Have we been successful? Yes! There are presently three faithful Christians in the prison with several others close to being baptized. I should mention that baptism is somewhat difficult to accomplish. We are not allowed to go in and baptize. One of the chaplains usually will do it, but there is a lot of “red tape.” Also, some of the inmates do not want a chaplain to baptize them; so as you can see, there are some unfortunate hold-ups.

Have there been failures? Yes. Some, after months of study, have proven insincere and unworthy. Some have gotten out of prison and either gotten right back into trouble or joined a denomination. Others are still in prison and have become unfaithful. As you can see, the parable of the soils is true everywhere!

Answering The Critic

As with any “new” thing, there are going to be varied reactions. So far, most of the reaction has been good. Alan has raised most of his support for which all of us are very thankful. But not all has been positive. Let me take this time to answer some of the negative reactions we have received.

(1) “Why a prison, of all places?” The opportunity is there. There are souls who desire the gospel and that type of opportunity is what we are to be looking for (1 Cor. 16:8-9).

(2) “But, they are criminals!” That is exactly right! Remember, Jesus had some of the greatest successes with the “worst” sinners of Jewish society (see Mt. 9:9-13; cf. 21:28-32).

(3) “Prison work has proven unsuccessful.” I am not saying every prison will have opportunity. It is possible only a few will – but at Pendleton and other prisons there is opportunity and success. Brethren, let us not overlook opportunity just because it is not in a middle class neighborhood!

(4) “Prison work is not evangelism. ” Since when? What is the difference between teaching in a pulpit, on the street, at a kitchen table, and at a table inside prison walls? Teaching is teaching. Brethren, when will we learn that “pulpit preaching” is not the only, and surely not the most, successful means of evangelism?

(5) “Prison work does not constitute ‘full-time’ work. ” What is really meant is that it does not involve a pulpit, which we have already mentioned. Alan Jones presently prepares for and studies with nine men per week, every week. How many “full-time preachers” do you know who are involved in evangelism that much? He also sends correspondence courses, edits and publishes the Cambridge City, IN church bulletin, and has occasional preaching appointments. Full-time work? – Yes!

How Can You Help?

As we have mentioned, Alan Jones has devoted his full time to this work, therefore he needs support. He has all he and his family (wife and son) need through September. Beginning in October, they need $410.00 more per month. Can you help? Alan deserves support! His address is P. 0. Box 112, Pershing, IN 47370. Also if you would like to correspond with some of the inmates or send them bulletins, etc. (both of which they would appreciate) or like any more information, details, etc., you can contact either Alan or myself.

Guardian of Truth XXXI: 21, pp. 652, 653
November 5, 1987

By Raymond E. Harris

Along with “love” and “mother,” the word “peace” is one of the sweetest words known to man. The word “peace” is found about 150 times in the Old Testament and over 80 times in the New Testament. The word “peace” is found in every New Testament book except First John. The Scriptures tell us that Jesus is the “Prince of Peace”; that peace makers shall be called “the children of God”; and that peace is a fruit of the Spirit. Yet, it seems that almost every generation cries, “Peace, peace; when there is no peace.” Both sacred and secular history tell of man’s futile efforts to maintain peace.

To enjoy true peace, man must not only be at peace with his fellow man but also with his God. In fact, because of his very nature, man will not be at peace with his fellow man until he is first at peace with Jehovah.

Notice the order of events in the beginning. As long as Adam and Eve were obedient and at peace with God, they were at peace with one another. But once sin entered into their lives, they knew little peace. Their arrogance, presumption and disobedience separated them from God and immediately they began to fuss and the family relationship was never the same again. From that time forward man was destined to live by the sweat of his brow and the woman was to be subject to her husband. In due time the feelings between Cain and Abel became so strained that Cain killed Abel. From that day till this, self-righteousness, hatred, envy, jealousy and all the other emotions that destroy peace have been all too evident in the history and affairs of man.

The people of our time have known little peace. During the past 30 years, our nation has been involved in war three times. Year after year the crime rate has continued to skyrocket. We suffer an unprecedented divorce rate.

What is behind all of this? The answer is evident! The nation has turned from God! For the first time in our history, less than half of our population admits to having any religion. Our courts have outlawed God, and our theologians tell us that in fact, “God is dead.” Our grade schools teach evolution and our universities have become lewd love nests. For several years, unbathed, unshaven deadbeats became the heroes of the hour, and law and order were crucified. From the least to the greatest, the cry is “peace, peace”. . but there is no peace.

What is the answer? A return to the Prince of Peace! What can be done? Let’s start with you. Are you a Christian? If not, you need to realize that obedience to Christ is the only source of real peace. In John 16:33, Jesus said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

On the other hand, if you profess to be a Christian, do you really work at it? Do you strive to live for Jesus daily and do you zealously participate in the affairs of the church? If you have not been true to your profession, you are not truly at peace with God or yourself. If you really want to be at peace with God, your fellow man and yourself, “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Eccl. 12:13). “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6,7).

Guardian of Truth XXXI: 21, p. 657
November 5, 1987