Should Christians Drink? | The Freedom & Responsibility of Alcohol | Pastor Ed Young

#sermon #drinking #alcohol

In this sermon, Pastor Ed Young discusses the complex topic of alcohol consumption from a biblical perspective, emphasizing that while Christians have the freedom to drink in moderation, there are significant cautions and responsibilities to consider (1:18). He highlights three types of drinking mentioned in the Bible: moderation, excessive drinking, and drunkenness, with the latter two being considered sin (2:16).

A central theme is the contrast between being controlled by alcohol and being filled with the Holy Spirit, drawing a parallel from Ephesians 5:18 (3:24). Young argues that when inebriated, individuals cannot glorify or truly worship God because alcohol controls them (4:51).
He then outlines five principles for dealing with alcohol, inspired by Proverbs 23:

The Decision (9:54): Individuals have a choice regarding alcohol, but this choice affects others, as exemplified by his daughter's death (10:02). He encourages an intense decision, considering past experiences, present wisdom, and future implications (14:00).

The Direction (19:05): Alcohol can lead to poverty and drowsiness (19:19). Young stresses fleeing from idolatry, which includes putting anything, even alcohol, above God (19:44).

The Decline (26:48): Alcohol's influence is subtle and seductive, leading to a slow progression of decline (27:38). He refers to this as a "half-empty beer," signifying a gradual loss of control and self (28:28).

The Disaster (29:26): The "buzz" can become a baseline, leading to disastrous consequences that spill over into various aspects of life, like relationships and careers (29:39). He connects this to the spilling of the beer, symbolizing an out-of-control situation (30:51).

The Deficit (31:14): Alcohol can leave one's life feeling empty, constantly seeking another drink to fill the void (32:47). Young concludes by emphasizing that God wants to fill lives with the "living water" of the Holy Spirit, offering an abundant and overflowing life that truly satisfies (33:31).

He encourages listeners to pray and ask God to fill them with the Holy Spirit instead of seeking control from alcohol (34:39).

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Pastor Ed Young is the senior pastor of Fellowship Church based in the DFW Metroplex, he is also an author, and conference speaker noted for his creative communication style.

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