Theology on Tap: Exploring Alcohol in Biblical Tradition with Dr. John Dunne (part two)

I rejoin my conversation with Dr. John Anthony Dunn about his book, A Biblical Theology of Alcohol, and we look beyond wine to possible biblical references to beer. He argues the Hebrew term “shakar” likely refers to a grain-based drink (not distilled “strong drink”), drawing on evidence from Numbers 6, ancient Near Eastern terms, the Mishnah, and even a possible brewing allusion in Ecclesiastes about casting bread on water, plus archaeological evidence like drinking straw tips. We discuss how grapes, vinegar, and beverages in flux could still intoxicate, and why drunkenness is often about cultural drinking habits rather than alcohol percentage. Theologically and pastorally, we emphasize that alcohol isn’t for everyone, abstinence can be wise (especially with addiction or recovery), and churches may choose voluntary restrictions without forcing shaky biblical arguments.