1. How concerned are you about drinking for yourself and others, and why?

2. What is the difference between the questions, "Can you drink?" and "Should you drink?"

3. What is "true" about drinking a) biblically and b) practically? What is "wise" about drinking? (Selected verses on drinking and drunkenness: Mat 11:19, 1 Cor 10:31-32, Eph 5:18, 1 Tim 3:3, Gal 5:21).

4. What is the problem with making a rule where Jesus does not make one according to Colossians 2:20-23? What is the difference between "wisdom" and "an appearance of wisdom" mentioned in verse 23?

5. My concern today is this: I want you to do the right things, but not for the wrong reasons. Before deciding an issue in particular it is good to establish the principles in general by which you will make your decision. I am suggesting the following as a credo for Christian behavior as a proper way of responding to the grace of God (I suggest you clip this and tape it to the inside cover of your Bible):

• Some things are specifically commanded in Scripture and must be obeyed.
• Some things are specifically prohibited in Scripture and must be avoided.
• Everything not specifically prohibited is permissible.
• Not everything permissible is beneficial.
• The goal is to be wise.
• The Holy Spirit through the Scriptures privately read or preached will properly guide us into proper behavior by grace.
• All things must be approached in the attitude of humble submission and obedience to God's will and calling.
  

What issue are you dealing with right now for which this credo is helpful?
What do you conclude about the drinking issue for yourself by filtering it through this credo?