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john said:

The reason for strongly encouraging one not to drink is because it is easy to fall into sin and as a witness to other believers/non-believers. Furthermore, our bodies are temples of Christ and we are called to live holy lives. Also, there is a huge alcohol problem that is part of Japanese culture.


John,

From the pastors statement above I can understand why the church wants to draw the line at the point of abstinence. However, I wonder how the members are complying with this and how they deal with those who fail.

It's always better to build a strong fence at the top of the hill rather than a hospital at the bottom but the church is not a private club for the righteous but a sanctuary for forgiven sinners. I'd recommend discussing this issue with one or more of the elders to further understand the church's position and how they practically deal with this. It would seem to me if there is a huge alcohol problem in this part of Japan they have had to deal with this issue. What kind of support do they offer to those members who struggle with this problem? How do they minister to those members who fall?

Have they set the bar so high that no one can reach it?


Wes

When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of Glory died, my richest gain I count but loss and pour contempt on all my pride. - Isaac Watts