What does the Bible say about underage drinking?

Definition and Cultural Context

Underage drinking, as understood today, refers to the consumption of alcoholic beverages by individuals who have not yet reached the legal age set by civil authorities. In modern societies, this age commonly falls around eighteen or twenty-one. Although these specific legal thresholds were not outlined in ancient Israel or the early Church, Scriptural principles on respecting authority, exercising self-control, and honoring parental guidance remain highly relevant (cf. Romans 13:1–2).

Historical and archaeological studies confirm that wine, often diluted with water, was integral to daily life in many biblical cultures. Even so, social norms existed to prevent undue harm, and abstaining was sometimes encouraged for special vows (Numbers 6:2–3). This background can inform present-day considerations of how young people should regard alcohol.

Old Testament Teachings on Alcohol

The Old Testament presents wine and strong drink as permissible within certain boundaries, yet replete with cautions about misuse. Proverbs 20:1 warns, “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” Such verses reveal a consistent emphasis on wisdom, recognizing the potent effects of alcohol.

In passages like Deuteronomy 21:18–21, a stubborn and rebellious son who is described as a drunkard and glutton faces serious consequences under Israelite law. While this text does not specifically address “underage drinking,” the spirit of the passage indicates that intemperance and disregard for parental instruction are grave offenses. These principles speak to filial obedience and avoiding destructive behaviors.

New Testament Insights

In the New Testament, the focus shifts to a new covenant context yet continues underscoring vigilance regarding alcohol. Ephesians 5:18 states, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” The apostle Paul draws a clear distinction between being controlled by alcohol and being guided by God’s Spirit.

Although Paul recommended a little wine for Timothy’s stomach ailments (1 Timothy 5:23), there is no indication of broad permission for youth to consume alcohol casually. Such counsel was tied to medicinal needs, not leisure or social indulgence. Throughout the New Testament, stories of believers reflect a life of balance and self-control, qualities diametrically opposed to underage excess or disregard for civil law.

Warnings Against Drunkenness

Scripture consistently associates drunkenness with moral and spiritual peril. Proverbs 23:20–21 cautions, “Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat. For the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” This principle of avoiding drunkenness applies to all ages but takes on specific importance for adolescents and young adults whose decision-making faculties, according to numerous modern scientific findings, remain in critical stages of development.

Medical research over the past few decades supports the conclusion that early alcohol use increases risks for brain impairment, addiction, and detrimental social or behavioral outcomes. These scientific observations parallel biblical exhortations on wisdom, self-control, and the damage caused by drunkenness.

Obedience to Authority

Many societies prohibit alcohol consumption under a specified age in order to protect youth from harmful effects. Romans 13:1 teaches, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God.” By extension, when a legitimate government sets protective measures such as a drinking age, the believer’s duty involves recognizing and obeying that regulation unless it directly contradicts God’s law (cf. Acts 5:29).

Respect for parents and guardians is also central in Scripture. Proverbs 1:8 says, “Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction, and do not forsake the teaching of your mother.” Parents often guide adolescents to refrain from alcohol until they have the maturity and legal allowance to handle its effects responsibly. The Bible’s emphasis on honoring parents supports this approach.

Practical and Spiritual Considerations

Beyond merely respecting the law, the heart of the biblical teaching to young people is that drunkenness hinders godly living, damages personal testimony, and can lead to broader sin (cf. 1 Corinthians 6:9–10). As individuals entrusted with stewarding their bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19–20), they are called to holiness rather than indulgence.

This extends to caring for one’s influence on others. If underage believers consume alcohol and stumble into sin or harm, they risk eroding their witness and leading peers astray. Scripture stresses mutual accountability, urging believers, “Make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother’s way” (Romans 14:13).

Conclusion

While the Bible does not explicitly address modern “underage drinking,” the overarching teachings and principles apply:

1. Drunkenness is forbidden and leads to harm (Proverbs 20:1; Ephesians 5:18).

2. Obedience to civil authorities remains a Christian duty (Romans 13:1).

3. Honor and heed parental guidance (Proverbs 1:8).

4. Walk in wisdom and stewardship of one’s body (1 Corinthians 6:19–20).

5. Avoid causing others to stumble (Romans 14:13).

These biblical foundations underscore the importance of refraining from underage drinking and exercising wisdom and discipline whenever alcohol is present. Romans 12:2 provides a fitting conclusion: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Rather than yielding to cultural pressures or self-justification, believers are called to live redemptively, honoring God in every aspect of life.