In the Bible, “winebibber” refers to a person who habitually drinks wine or is often drunk, often used in a derogatory sense to denote immorality or gluttony. It appears in contexts that critique excessive drinking and the associated behaviors, as seen in Proverbs 23:20-21 and Matthew 11:19.
Scripture
29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow?
Who has strife? Who has complaining?
Who has wounds without cause?
Who has redness of eyes?
30 Those who tarry long over wine; those who go to try mixed wine.
31 Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly.
32 In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder.
33 Your eyes will see strange things, and your heart utter perverse things.
34 You will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, like one who lies on the top of a mast.
35 “They struck me,” you will say, “but I was not hurt; they beat me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake? I must have another drink.”
Biblical Meaning of “Winebibber” Explained
The term “winebibber” embodies a broader moral and ethical critique present in biblical literature concerning excess, particularly in relation to alcohol consumption. In Proverbs 23:20-21, the wisdom literature warns against associating with those who are gluttonous and prone to drunkenness, cautioning that such behavior leads to poverty and ruin. This admonition reflects the overarching biblical principle that warns against the dangers of indulgence and a lack of self-control, as excessive drinking can lead to a host of sinful behaviors and societal issues, such as violence and impaired judgment.
Additionally, in the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as a “winebibber” in Matthew 11:19, where he is accused by critics for associating with sinners and partaking in joyful feasting. This irony highlights the tension between the joy of communion and fellowship and the potential moral pitfalls of excess. It serves as a cautionary reminder that while celebration and companionship involve social drinking, one must remain vigilant against falling into the lifestyle of a winebibber—where the act of drinking transforms from a social gathering into a vice that neglects the well-being of oneself and the community. The biblical discussion of winebibbers thus transcends mere drinking habits and invites believers to a deeper reflection on lifestyle choices, emphasizing moderation, personal responsibility, and the importance of one’s association and behaviors in relation to God’s commandments.
The term “winebibber” further illustrates the dualities presented within scripture regarding the nature of alcohol consumption and its association with morality. For example, in Luke 7:34, alongside the accusation against Jesus, there is a clear juxtaposition between those labeled as winebibbers and the virtuous life that the scriptures uphold. Here, the designation serves to highlight societal perceptions of piety versus indulgence, illustrating how one’s social practices can often be misconstrued as indicators of moral character. The use of “winebibber” thus encapsulates the stark contrast between excessive freedom and disciplined living that the biblical narrative encourages.
Moreover, throughout the Old Testament, images of wine often accompany themes of joy and divine blessing, yet they are simultaneously tempered with warnings about drunkenness and its repercussions. Ecclesiastes, with its reflections on the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures, encourages a balance, urging readers to rejoice in life but to do so with a mindful heart. This nuanced perspective suggests that while wine can symbolize fellowship and joy, the excess that leads one to be seen as a winebibber can lead to harm and a dilution of spiritual integrity. Ultimately, the biblical references to winebibbers serve as admonitions to pursue a lifestyle rooted in moderation, accountability, and a contemplative engagement with the blessings of life while being wary of their potential to lead one away from righteousness.
The Symbol of Excess and Indulgence
In biblical literature, the term “winebibber” often represents a person who indulges excessively in alcohol, symbolizing a broader theme of excess and indulgence in life. This concept serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of overindulgence, not only in alcohol but in various aspects of life, such as materialism and hedonism. The portrayal of winebibbers highlights the potential consequences of a lifestyle marked by excess, including moral decay, loss of self-control, and estrangement from spiritual values.
The Contrast to Righteous Living
The term “winebibber” also serves to contrast with the ideals of righteous living and self-discipline found throughout the scriptures. Those who are labeled as winebibbers are often depicted as lacking the virtues of moderation and temperance, which are highly valued in biblical teachings. This contrast emphasizes the importance of living a life that is aligned with spiritual principles, encouraging believers to pursue a path of righteousness, wisdom, and self-restraint rather than succumbing to the temptations of a hedonistic lifestyle.
The Reflection of Social Perception
Additionally, the label of “winebibber” reflects societal perceptions and judgments regarding behavior and morality. In biblical times, drinking wine was a common practice, yet the distinction between moderate consumption and excessive drinking was significant. The term serves as a social critique, illustrating how individuals who engage in excessive drinking are often marginalized or criticized within their communities. This aspect of the term invites reflection on how society views behaviors and the moral implications of those judgments, urging individuals to consider the impact of their actions on their reputation and relationships.
How to Embrace Sobriety for Spiritual Growth
Embracing sobriety is a profound journey that can significantly enhance your spiritual growth, allowing you to connect more deeply with God and your true self. As you step away from substances that cloud your mind and spirit, you create space for clarity, reflection, and prayer. This newfound clarity can help you hear God’s voice more distinctly, guiding you toward a life filled with purpose and love. Consider incorporating daily practices such as meditation on Scripture, journaling your thoughts and prayers, and engaging in community service, which can all foster a deeper relationship with Christ. Remember, sobriety is not just about abstaining from substances; it’s about filling your life with the richness of God’s grace and the joy of living in alignment with His will. Lean on your faith, seek support from your church community, and trust that this journey will lead you to a more fulfilling and spiritually vibrant life.
Bible References to Winebibbers Explained:
Isaiah 5:11-12: 11 Woe to those who rise early in the morning, that they may run after strong drink, who tarry late into the evening as wine inflames them!
12 They have lyre and harp, tambourine and flute and wine at their feasts, but they do not regard the deeds of the Lord, or see the work of his hands.
Isaiah 28:7-8: 7 These also reel with wine
and stagger with strong drink;
the priest and the prophet reel with strong drink,
they are swallowed by wine,
they stagger with strong drink,
they reel in vision,
they stumble in giving judgment.
8 For all tables are full of filthy vomit, with no space left.
Hosea 4:10-11: 10 They shall eat, but not be satisfied;
they shall play the whore, but not multiply,
because they have forsaken the Lord
to cherish whoredom, wine, and new wine,
which take away the understanding.
11 whoredom, wine, and new wine, which take away the understanding.
Joel 1:5-7: 5 Awake, you drunkards, and weep,
and wail, all you drinkers of wine,
because of the sweet wine,
for it is cut off from your mouth.
6 For a nation has come up against my land, powerful and beyond number; its teeth are lions’ teeth, and it has the fangs of a lioness.
7 He has laid waste my vine and splintered my fig tree; he has stripped it bare and cast it away; its branches are made white.
Habakkuk 2:15-16: 15 “Woe to him who makes his neighbors drink—
you pour out your wrath and make them drunk,
in order to gaze at their nakedness!
16 You will have your fill of shame instead of glory. Drink, yourself, and show your uncircumcision! The cup in the Lord’s right hand will come around to you, and utter shame will come upon your glory!
Matthew 11:18-19: 18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’
19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”
Luke 7:33-34: 33 For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’
34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’
Romans 13:13-14: 13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.
14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10: 9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality,
10 nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:19-21: 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,
20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions,
21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Ephesians 5:18-21: 18 And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,
19 addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart,
giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.
1 Timothy 3:2-3: 2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,
3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.
Titus 1:7-8: 7 For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain,
8 but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined.
1 Peter 4:3-4: 3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry.
4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you;
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.