While I can offer condolences, it was the person, not the alcohol! I fully realize that I did not put the cup to my son's lips, nor cause him to stay up late and go from bar to bar, but I could have set an example at a time in his life that would have served him better. I did not do what my Saviour expected His imitator to do. No excuses.
For someone who likes to quote Scripture, these posts often reveal a lack of proper understanding and exegesis.
Perhaps you'd like to share your hermeneutical method on this question. My last note on Ephesians 5:18 followed that of a scholar who has translated the same verse, as well as the entire New Testament, with a view toward great precision of the grammar and syntax. Your exegetical method on it will be interesting.
Wine is not a problem, . . .
It most certainly is, and its manufacture is a man-made process utilizing anaerobic fermentation; and today aggravated by adding sugars to the process to raise the content to the limit the yeasts withstand.
. . . and it is clear to most people that Jesus turned water into fermented fine wine, the finest probably.
Lacking any logical or exegetical basis to even begin to forward your hypothesis, this approach follows the line "Eat fecal matter, fifty million flies can't be wrong." No sale here.
It is improper use of anything that leads to destruction.
Regarding recreational use of intoxicating beverages as a carnal means to advance the interests of the Kingdom of God--The Holy Ghost has already given us His Word on that to us, and it is quite negative.
Twisting Scripture to advance Satanic interests: well, that has been tried many times (in the Garden, worked; after the Temptation, failed). It was long ago pointed out to me that one of the most deadly humans alive is a false prophet with a Bible in his hand. And a man claiming that recreational use of intoxicants is beneficial based on Bible support for it is one of them, IMHO.
I am sure I have probably offended you, but please don't lose any sleep over it --
...I am sure I have probably offended you, but please don't lose any sleep over it --I am not offended. I am secure in my relationship with God, through the infilling of His Holy spirit, and His leadership of my life.
I would not drink alcohol when I am around you because it would offend you, and that is what Scripture tells me. BUT, I have no problems with hanging out with publicans and sinners like my Brother did in His days on Earth. I have no doubts He may have had a glass or two (or maybe even three or four!) of FERMENTED wine (with or without sugar added).
As for hermeneutics, I had the privilege of a few years at a Bible College, where I learned some Greek and was taught how to exegete for that and also had some teachings from a Jewish Rabbi, from whom I learned some Hebrew.
Some people just like to find an agreeable source that will represent their views. I prefer to stick with what the Bible says (through the leadings of His Holy Spirit!.
YMMV!
