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The Beginning of the End
All who were in positions of responsibility were to maintain strict
temperance so that their minds might be clear to know the difference
between right and wrong.
The same obligation rests on every follower of Christ. “You
are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own
special people” (
1 Peter 2:9
). When alcoholic drinks are used, the
same effects will follow as in the case of those priests of Israel. The
conscience will lose its sensitivity to sin and a hardening will take
place, till the difference between the common and the sacred will not
seem important. “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever
you do, do all to the glory of God” (
1 Corinthians 10:31
). The
solemn and fearful warning is addressed to the church of Christ in
all ages: “If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him.
For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are” (
1 Corinthians
3:17
).
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