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NOT GIVEN TO WINE



Topic: NOT GIVEN TO WINE – A CALL TO HOLINESS AND EXAMPLE

Texts: 1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7

Introduction 

When Paul gave Timothy and Titus the list of qualifications for church leaders, one repeated command stands out:

“…not given to wine” (1 Tim. 3:3; Titus 1:7).

This is not a casual suggestion. It is God’s standard for those entrusted with His work. Why? Because a leader’s life is not their own—it is a message to the people they lead. A leader’s habits either inspire holiness or excuse sin.

1. The Language of Separation

The Greek word mÄ“ paroinos means “not near wine”—not lingering around it, not tasting it, not attached to it.

  • It is not about “knowing your limit.”
  • It is about setting a limit so far from danger that you never fall into it.
  • God calls His leaders to distance themselves completely from alcohol to protect their mind, message, and ministry.

2. Biblical Warnings Go Beyond Leaders

Although the command is for leaders, the principle applies to all believers:

  • Proverbs 20:1 – Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging; whoever is deceived is not wise.
  • Proverbs 31:4-5 – It is not for kings to drink wine… lest they pervert judgment. We are a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9)—our judgment must be clear.
  • Leviticus 10:9-10 – Priests must avoid wine when serving, to distinguish between holy and unholy. We are priests before God every day.
  • Ephesians 5:18 – Be not drunk with wine… but be filled with the Spirit. The Spirit and alcohol compete for control of a person’s mind.

3. Why Abstinence Is the Only Safe Standard for Leaders

  1. Alcohol Clouds Judgment – Leaders must make decisions guided by the Spirit, not dulled by drink. Even “a little” can slow reflexes and impair wisdom.
  2. Alcohol Destroys Example – If a leader drinks “just a little,” others may take it as permission to drink a lot. Romans 14:21 warns against causing a brother to stumble.
  3. Alcohol Stains Testimony – One public incident can undo years of ministry credibility. Leaders must live above suspicion.
  4. Alcohol Opens the Door to Other Sins – Drunkenness is often followed by anger, immorality, or poor decisions.

4. God’s Better Drink

Jesus spoke of a different cup—the cup of salvation (Psalm 116:13). The “wine” of the Holy Spirit brings joy, boldness, and peace without regret or hangover.

  • In Acts 2, the Spirit-filled disciples were mistaken for drunk—but their “intoxication” came from God’s presence, not alcohol.
  • Ephesians 5:18 shows the contrast: avoid wine, pursue Spirit-filled living.

Conclusion

A leader’s life is a pattern for the flock (1 Peter 5:3). The call to be “not given to wine” is a call to be fully available to God, undistracted, and above reproach. For the sake of your mind, your ministry, and your Master—choose total abstinence.

Prayer:
“Lord, I surrender my desires to You. Keep my life pure, my mind sharp, and my witness strong. May I drink only from the joy of Your Spirit and never from the cup that dulls my soul. Amen.”


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