Many Christians continue to ask whether the Holy Bible permits the consumption of alcohol. This is why KIGALIINFO explores this question by examining key biblical passages, particularly the account of Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana (John 2:1–11) and Paul’s advice to Timothy in 1 Timothy 5:23.

One of the most frequently cited arguments in favor of drinking alcohol comes from the miracle at Cana, where Jesus turned water into wine. Supporters of this view often say, “If Jesus Himself turned water into wine, then drinking alcohol cannot be wrong.” However, a closer reading of Scripture invites deeper reflection.

The wedding at Cana: What really happened?

According to the Gospel of John, a wedding was taking place in Cana of Galilee, attended by Jesus, His disciples, and His mother. When the wine ran out, Mary informed Jesus of the situation.

Jesus instructed the servants to fill six large stone jars—used for Jewish purification rituals—with water. After the jars were filled to the brim, He told them to draw some out and present it to the master of the banquet.

When the master tasted it, he was surprised by its quality. Unaware of its source, he remarked to the bridegroom that hosts normally serve the best wine first and save inferior wine for later—but in this case, the finest had been reserved until the end.

This miracle became the first public sign of Jesus’ divine power, leading His disciples to believe in Him.

Understanding the meaning of the miracle

This passage does not describe any human process of fermentation, such as the addition of yeast. Instead, it highlights a divine act meant to reveal Christ’s glory rather than to encourage indulgence in alcohol.

The late Pastor Joseph Majyambere, former leader of the Pentecostal Church in Rwanda, once taught that this miracle symbolically reflects God’s work in the lives of those who abandon drunkenness and embrace salvation.

According to him, God transforms people’s hearts so that they no longer crave alcohol but instead find satisfaction in a new, righteous life.

He explained that, just as water was transformed, believers themselves are transformed—what once gave them pleasure loses its appeal, while what once seemed unattractive becomes fulfilling.

Paul’s advice to Timothy

In another often-quoted passage, the Apostle Paul advises Timothy, a church leader in Ephesus, to stop drinking only water and instead take a little wine for the sake of his stomach and frequent illnesses.

At that time, modern medicine did not exist. Wine was commonly used in small quantities as a remedy for pain and digestive problems. This medicinal use is very different from today’s widespread recreational and excessive consumption of alcohol.

What the Bible warns about alcohol

The book of Proverbs acknowledges that wine was sometimes given to those in extreme distress, yet Scripture consistently warns against drunkenness.

The Bible urges believers to remain sober, alert, and spiritually disciplined, as it says
“Let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). “The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and sober-minded so that you may pray” (1 Peter 4:7).

Throughout Scriptures, alcohol is often portrayed as deceptive, capable of leading people away from wisdom and self-control. The human body is described as a temple of God—a place where His Spirit dwells.

This raises a sobering question:
Can God willingly dwell in a body dominated by drunkenness?