For any interested, there is a good analysis of the WT study for 1/18/2015 here. Paragraph 18 makes a curious flip-flop from w04 12/1 p. 21 par. 15.
Bobcat
WT Study for Jan 18, 2015
by Bobcat 4 Replies latest watchtower bible
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cantleave
Decide what is an immoderate amount of alcohol for you, and set appropriate limits.
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leaving_quietly
This is actually a very good example of reading into the scriptures whatever you want. Saving for future use. -
blondie
18 Note what God then told Aaron. (Read Leviticus 10:8-11.) Does that passage mean that we must not drink anything alcoholic before going to a Christian meeting? Think about these points: We are not under the Law. (Rom. 10:4) In some lands, our fellow believers use alcoholic beverages in moderation at meals before attending meetings. Four cups of wine were used at the Passover. When instituting the Memorial, Jesus had his apostles drink wine that represented his blood. (Matt. 26:27) The Bible condemns heavy drinking and drunkenness. (1 Cor. 6:10; 1 Tim. 3:8) And many Christians would feel impelled by their conscience to abstain completely from alcoholic beverages before engaging in any form of sacred service. However, circumstances vary from one country to another, and the important thing is for Christians to “distinguish between the holy thing and the profane” so as to conduct themselves with holiness that pleases God.
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So were is the WTS principle of not stumbling someone else? I studied with 2 recovering alcoholics (US) who mentioned that at least 5 people at the meeting had been drinking alcohol and were offended.
What countries drink before meetings and field service or going on a bible study?
Define "in moderation."
Or heavy drinking or alcoholism....not all alcoholics drink copious amounts but they are addicted. -
sir82
What countries drink before meetings and field service or going on a bible study?
Before??? I've attended an international convention in Europe where there was drinking during the meeting (well, lunchtime at the convention, but still....)
This article is a curious flip-flop from "don't ever drink before meetings" to "it's OK in moderation".
My best guess is that there are alcoholics on some of the European branch committees, and this is a "bone" thrown to them in recompense for some other concession made.
