The issue of the social use of alcoholic beverages has long troubled and divided the Christian Church. Advocates of moderate drinking strongly denounce any attempts to "add" to God's law a prohibition of that which they believe is clearly permitted by scripture. Opponents have frequently resorted to denouncing the "saloon trade" and documenting the prevalence and consequences of alcohol abuse. "The Fruit of the Vine" seeks to deal with this issue from a strictly scriptural perspective.
The book notes that there is duality in the scripture testimony concerning wine that alternates between unstinting praise and utter condemnation. This has introduced a definite tension in the scriptures between these varying texts. This has been historically resolved by postulating that when it is being praised moderate use is in view and when it is being condemned its excessive use or abuse is in view. The book notes that it requires quite a shoehorn to force these texts into such a mold. It offers another way of resolving this tension by postulating that there are two different kinds of wine in view; fermented wine and unfermented or new wine.
The book includes a detailed, in-depth study of the various Greek and Hebrew words (shown in the original language as well as being conveniently transliterated for the reader) used for the words wine or strong drink in the English Bible. It clearly determines from the context that several of these words are generic words that used to denote both fermented wine and non-fermented wine. From the context it also notes whether its use is approved, condemned, or neutral and draws the appropriate conclusions.
The book answers all the standard arguments in favor of the moderate use of alcoholic beverages and answers the following questions…
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What kind of wine did Christ produce at the wedding in Cana? |
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What kind of wine was used by the Lord at his institution of the Lord's Supper? |
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Did Christ ever personally use alcoholic beverages? |
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Does prohibition of excess logically imply approval of moderate use? |
This is a rare book, and there are very few others like it, and most of those are out of print. If you would appreciate a thorough scriptural treatment of this subject you should avail yourself of this opportunity.
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