SUMMARY

In the last episode on alcohol, we looked at how wine was intertwined with the Christological narrative of scripture. In this second part on alcohol, Rick and Brad look at the line we as Christians walk as to enjoy the gift of alcohol without abusing it. We are free to use it to gladden our hearts, but what is too far?

 
 

QUESTIONS DISCUSSED

  • Where do we start with alcohol as a Christian? How do we let Scripture shape our views on alcohol?

  • Where does Scripture talk about alcohol?

  • Where is the line between gladdening the heart and abusing alcohol?

  • How do we live life by doing everything to glorify God, including drinking alcohol?

  • What does your conscience come into play in drawing a line for alcohol?

  • Was alcohol less alcoholic in Jesus’ time? Does that change anything?

  • Does alcohol hinder our ability to evangelize? Can you hinder evangelism by self-righteously not partaking in alcohol?

  • How can alcohol be a “social lubricant”?

  • How can we be reminded of the Gospel as we partake in the gifts God gives us?

  • How do we keep from causing our brother to stumble? Do we abstain from drinking alcohol?

  • How is beer a part of the history of the church? Where does the Church draw the line of drunkenness throughout history?

  • How do we spite the devil through drinking alcohol?

  • If people struggle with eating disorders, why don’t we get rid of food at parties as we do with alcohol sometimes?

  • What are some reasons alcohol may be seen as taboo in culture?

  • What are the root issues behind seeking pleasure through idols like alcohol?

RESOURCES/REFERENCES

LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

ColdFire Brewing is a small craft brewery located at 263 Mill St. here in Eugene. ColdFire is motivated by European brewing traditions and inspired by a Northwest aesthetic with the ingredients it has to offer. Because of this influence, they brew small batches so that they can refine their art as generations of brewers did before them.

ColdFire Brewing was founded in 2015 by Dan and Stephen Hughes, who had homebrewed together since 2001 as a way to obtain “good beer cheap”. Stephen had years of clinical laboratory experience as a scientist for a regional hospital system, which gave him an edge on the microbiology side. He even interned at some other breweries. Dan spent time in healthcare as well, but on the management side of things. They eventually decided they would go into business together, and as a result, ColdFire was born. Every day, they continue to be humbled by the opportunity to share their craft with others.

The name “ColdFire” comes from the process of fermentation itself. Fermentation has been called “cold fire” because, similar to heating raw ingredients to create edible food, fermentation uses microbes to break down raw ingredients and enrich the drink for consumption.

When you visit ColdFire you’ll find food trucks, great beer, and maybe one of the events they hold like open-mic nights, cribbage tournaments, trivia, and small concerts. You can even join their membership program as a way to receive discounts, benefits, and special private member events throughout the year. It is an invitation for fans of ColdFire to get an insider view of their beers and the brewery.

Go on and check out our friends at ColdFire, say hi to Dan and Stephen, and let them know you heard about them on our podcast.