Spurgeon the Drinker

Orthodoxy · #1 03-29-2010, 11:32 AM

What do you all think about this short article addressing the fact that Charles Spurgeon used to drink and smoke? (And about how his views changed in later years?)

http://trevinwax.com/2006/12/06/spur...-of-the-story/

Aquila · #2 03-29-2010, 12:25 PM

I agree that smoking and drinking are not “sins”. However, smoking is unhealthy and one will reap what they sow (as with heart disease and over eating). I know most here might chide me, but I was Army. I’ve had my share of good smokes. In fact, I’ve enjoyed a few smokes down through the years (primarily cigars). But it is unhealthy with absolutely NO redeeming benefit therefore I think Christians are wise to abstain from smoking.

If I knew that a brother or pastor enjoyed smoking, I’d probably not judge them to harshly. God gave us free will and apparently they’ve chosen to enjoy something that is rather unhealthy (as with many preachers who nearly always order the “double cheese burger” instead of a salad or even a “single”).

As for alcohol, studies have shown that in moderation alcohol can actually be good for you. Red wines are especially good for the heart and blood stream. My doctor put me on a diet when my blood pressure was through the roof. My doctor also recommended no more than two glasses of red wine four nights a week to stabilize my triglycerides(?). Can’t remember the technical terms for the numbers referred to. (Please note she was concerned because I have heart disease in my family.) As a result not only did my blood pressure stabilize, but I lost 70 pounds, and my numbers were back in balance rather quickly. I still enjoy an occasional bottle of red wine.

As for other alcohol, I enjoy it in moderation far less frequently. Beers that I like are typically darker ales such as Guinness or New Castle. I have always enjoyed a nice whisky, scotch, or brandy before bed on special occasions.

I think the Biblical position is moderation and the understanding that we reap what we sow. To smoke means that one will reap the negative effects on their health that smoking brings. To drink excessively means that one will reap the negative effects on their health that excessive drinking brings.

I’d remember that Paul stated in his pastoral letters to Timothy that a Bishop shouldn’t be “given to wine”. A man who doesn’t understand moderation and personal responsibility shouldn’t be allowed to minister.

deltaguitar · #3 03-29-2010, 01:29 PM

Orthodoxy, you know as a calvinist you have to like beer.

deltaguitar · #4 03-29-2010, 01:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Orthodoxy

What do you all think about this short article addressing the fact that Charles Spurgeon used to drink and smoke? (And about how his views changed in later years?)

http://trevinwax.com/2006/12/06/spur...-of-the-story/

Spurgeon was wise in that he didn't want to offend his brethren and drink alcohol. I will do the same. I know that there are those which certain behavior could hurt their faith or tempt them and we shouldn't want to offend a saint who is weak in the faith.

pelathais · #5 03-29-2010, 01:46 PM

I abstain from both - but I admit that I couldn't declare my reasoning through a Bible study.

oletime · #6 03-29-2010, 02:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pelathais

I abstain from both - but I admit that I couldn't declare my reasoning through a Bible study.

Doesnt "he that knoweth to do good and doeth it not,to him it is a sin" apply ? I know, go ahead and put your food spins on it .

Baron1710 · #7 03-29-2010, 07:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by oletime

Doesnt "he that knoweth to do good and doeth it not,to him it is a sin" apply ? I know, go ahead and put your food spins on it .

I am trying to figure out how this verse applies. What "good" is it that someone who smokes a cigar or has a glass of wine should know to do? And what is it they are not doing?

Hoovie · #8 03-29-2010, 01:50 PM

Luther - now he loved his beer!

Aquila · #9 03-29-2010, 02:30 PM

Where or how do we separate or discern between dealing with an actual weaker brethren that needs us to modify our behavior around him (or her) and those who are merely manipulative, spying out our liberty in Christ, to control us? I’ve seen very strong brethren who fall back on the “weaker brother” argument just to control those who make different choices than they do. So I’m leery of the “weaker brother” argument. I think that Paul would deal with most so called “weaker brothers” the way he dealt with the Judaizers. We need to be cautious around brothers who are truly weaker… but where do we draw the line to prevent being manipulated and controlled by legalists?

deltaguitar · #10 03-29-2010, 03:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aquila

Where or how do we separate or discern between dealing with an actual weaker brethren that needs us to modify our behavior around him (or her) and those who are merely manipulative, spying out our liberty in Christ, to control us? I’ve seen very strong brethren who fall back on the “weaker brother” argument just to control those who make different choices than they do. So I’m leery of the “weaker brother” argument. I think that Paul would deal with most so called “weaker brothers” the way he dealt with the Judaizers. We need to be cautious around brothers who are truly weaker… but where do we draw the line to prevent being manipulated and controlled by legalists?

Don't hang out with legalist in the first place.

If I have a brother who is sincerely weak in a certain area I am not going to temp him.