The Moderate Use of Wine and Alcohol Among Church Elders: An Analysis of νηφάλιον and πάροινον in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9

The use of alcohol in the Bible is well established. The ancients were known to consume alcohol and fully understood the pain and pleasure associated with it. So, two things are true: the use of wine is permitted in the Scriptures, but only in moderation. Historically, the conversation about the use of wine has focused on answering the question, “Was the wine used by believers in the Scriptures alcoholic or non-alcoholic?” That debate has largely been settled and will not be the subject of this dissertation. What has not been addressed nearly as often is the question, “How was wine used?” The body of literature on the subject does not describe the proper use of wine in detail beyond the simplicity of avoiding intoxication. What is considered drunkenness for one may not be for the other. Unintentionally this may leave the individual to determine what is moderate “in their own eyes” (Judg 17:6; 21:25). This dissertation suggests that more guidance is available in the Scriptures to provide a more meaningful definition for moderation. Specifically, this dissertation will take a closer look at the uses of νηφάλιον and πάροινον in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 to provide a more modern translation and definition of these terms. The first-century use of wine will be examined and defined. The overseer texts will be interpreted. Beginning with the view that abstention is at the heart of Paul’s instructions, this dissertation will determine the uses of νηφάλιον and πάροινον and apply the biblical and social paradigm for the use of alcohol to church overseers and, by extension, to the church at large. Hopefully, this is the start of a conversation and deeper scholarly focus on an issue that significantly impacts the daily lives of believers.