Common Concern

I noticed the following question popped up and would post who it was from but I haven't received permission yet. I will acknowledge the source if they grant permission.

Can I ask a question that will probably have people thinking (again) I'm so judgmental? When did it become OK for Christians to drink alcohol with not even a thought of how it could cause others to stumble or hurt their testimonies? It's not what I've heard in any church I've ever attended, yet it seems all too prevalent. I think the "everything in moderation" thing is a cop out, so... I'm looking for a legit answer.

This continues to be a topic of serious misunderstanding among those who follow after Jesus. I responded to the above with the following:

May I suggest a reading of the following: Lev. 23:9-14 (notice what is part of the offering); Deut. 14:22-29(use the silver to buy what?); Isa. 5:22 (the warning); John 2:1-11 (the very best); Mt. 11:16-19 (the difference between John and Jesus); and one last one, Eph. 5:15-20 (the first verse being the key about living our life).

I think it is easy to point to drinking as being a stumbling block. There are so many other things that make us stumble that we never address. What about television? How many times do we see people gossiping on TV and yet that is a sin that has devastating effects on our lives and relationships. Cable could be the cause of stumbling for someone struggling with a porn addiction (internet also in that category). The bottom line in my opinion isn't the "everything in moderation" but living life as an example of one who has a real relationship with God through Jesus.
Food for though. May I post your question on my blog?

There was one response to the question that included a good link (Is It a Sin for a Christian to Drink Alcohol?).

In my previous days as a youth minister, it was prudent for me to abstain. One, the leadership of the church would have fired me for partaking. Two, I was an influence to many teenagers who looked to me as an example (as much as you try to point people to look at Jesus as the example, they still looked to you).

In my present situation, I find myself enjoying much more freedom. I enjoy a drink on an occasion and always with self-control. My co-workers find it a bit funny that I only have one or two drinks when I am out with them but I am setting an example of what it means to have self-control.

I know that this topic is a touchy one for many but I share this with the hopes of having good dialogue.