The question of whether wine or grape juice should be used during communion is one that has been debated among Christians for centuries. There are good arguments on both sides, and Scripture does not definitively settle the issue. Ultimately, it is a matter of biblical interpretation and Christian freedom. Looking at the relevant biblical passages can help shed light on this discussion.
Biblical Basis for Using Wine
There are several lines of biblical evidence that support using actual wine during communion:
- Jesus instituted communion during the Passover meal, which traditionally involved drinking wine (Matthew 26:17-29).
- The Greek word for “wine” (oinos) is used in the accounts of the Last Supper (Matthew 26:29).
- Paul rebukes drunkenness at Corinth during the Lord’s Supper, implying real wine was used (1 Corinthians 11:21).
- Paul tells Timothy to drink wine for his stomach issues, not just grape juice (1 Timothy 5:23).
- De-alcoholized wine was uncommon in biblical times, so “wine” meant actual wine.
Based on these points, many Christians believe the biblical precedent is to use wine during communion, just as Jesus and the early church did. The wine represents Christ’s blood poured out for us, and we partake just as the disciples did.
Concerns About Using Wine
However, there are some potential issues that lead many modern churches to use grape juice instead of wine for communion:
- Alcoholism is a serious issue today, so some Christians want to avoid stumbling others.
- Children sometimes partake in communion, so wine could be improper.
- The Bible warns against drunkenness, so some see wine as risky (Ephesians 5:18).
- Grape juice may avoid perceptions of alcohol abuse during a holy sacrament.
- Some recovering alcoholics may struggle with real wine being used.
Given these modern concerns, many churches play it safe by using grape juice instead of wine. The emphasis is still on remembering Christ, just with a non-alcoholic beverage.
Biblical Basis for Using Grape Juice
Is there any biblical precedent for using grape juice instead of wine? A few arguments are made:
- Wine in biblical times was often watered down and not as alcoholic.
- “Fruit of the vine” is used in some communion accounts, possibly meaning juice (Matthew 26:29).
- Freshly pressed grape juice could be used before fermentation occurred.
- The Passover wine may have been less alcoholic due to rapid exodus.
While these arguments do not definitively prove grape juice was ever used in communion, they suggest it may be a permissible alternative in line with biblical principles.
Principles For Deciding
Scripture does not command one beverage over another for communion. Some key principles can help churches decide what to use:
- Follow your convictions before God on what best reflects Christ (Romans 14:5-6).
- Do not judge others who hold a different view (v. 13).
- Consider what will protect conscience and avoid stumbling others (1 Corinthians 8:9-13).
- Aim for unity, love, and harmony within the body (Ephesians 4:2-3).
Within these biblical principles there is freedom. The important thing is remembering Christ’s sacrifice, avoiding division, and showing love for each other.
Practical Considerations
Some practical factors may help determine if a church uses wine or grape juice for communion:
- Avoid stumbling new believers, alcoholics, or those with convictions against alcohol.
- Consider children partaking and what is appropriate for them.
- Assess the prevalence of alcohol abuse within the church or community.
- Decide if allowing wine shows loving accommodation or unwise acceptance of alcohol.
- Reflect on any denominational stances or precedents to follow.
There is wisdom in carefully weighing these factors and thinking through implications, without judging those who in good conscience use a different element.
Maintaining Unity Despite Disagreement
Sincere Christians can study the same Scriptures and arrive at different conclusions on what element to use for communion. This need not divide churches or believers:
- Accept there are biblically reasonable grounds for either wine or grape juice.
- Focus on our shared identity in Christ, not arguing secondary issues (1 Corinthians 1:10-13).
- Accommodate others by having options available for conscience reasons (1 Corinthians 8:9-13).
- Emphasize the meaning behind communion over physical components.
- Avoid fighting over disputable matters not central to the faith (Romans 14:1).
As long as Jesus Christ is being proclaimed and remembered, churches should not divide or judge over communion beverage choice. Liberty in nonessentials can be maintained.
Conclusion
The Bible does not definitively settle whether wine or grape juice should be used for communion. Good cases can be made from Scripture for either. Much depends on current context and conscience. Wise principles can help churches make a thoughtful decision, while maintaining unity and not judging those who sincerely use a different element. The biblical truth that communion represents Christ’s sacrificial blood shed on our behalf remains central, regardless of what drink is used. When partaking together, love and harmony within the body should be prized over insisting on one beverage as right for all.
