September 21, 2014 · John 2:1–11

Why More Wine?

On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus' mother was there, 2 and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine was gone, Jesus' mother said to him, "They have no more wine." "Woman, why do you involve me?" Jesus replied. "My hour has not yet come." His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you."

“I've seen alcohol rip apart other members of my family. And they would have probably been destroyed as well, if it wasn't for them finding Jesus. So we understand this is a serious thing. That abuse of alcohol is one of the most dangerous social ills possible. The Bible says wine is a mocker (Proverbs 20:1) — that many people throw away their lives, getting really excited about mixed bowls of wine. (Proverbs 23:29–35) The Bible talks about how it can turn you into a fool — might be on one particular night, or it might be for the rest of your life. We're not trying to shirk away from the reality that the abuse of alcohol is a major issue. But we need to balance that danger with the biblical truth that wine is a blessing to humanity. This is the truth of scripture. God made it work this way in our lives for a reason. He gave us wine for a reason. It gladdens the heart. (Psalm 104:15) It brings joy, uniquely. It's a sacred gift to us, that needs to be properly respected. If it's enjoyed properly, it can show the joy of God in the midst of a community in a way that nothing else can. There's nothing quite like the happiness of a wedding. When you're in the — you're at a wedding — it's good; it's holy; it's sacred; and you're excited about the couple.”