53 - Bible Commentary | Karuna Sadan

📖1 Timothy 5:23

“No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities.”

a). “No longer drink only water”

In the Greco-Roman world, water was often impure. Ancient cities like Ephesus, where Timothy ministered, had aqueducts and cisterns, but contamination was common, which could easily lead to digestive problems.

b). “But use a little wine”

Word Study

Greek: oinō oligō chrō – “make use of a little wine.”
The emphasis is not indulgence but measured use (oligos = “a little”).

Wine in the ancient world was not consumed like modern strong alcohol. It was usually diluted with water, making it safer to drink and helpful in digestion. Even Jewish and Greco-Roman physicians (like Hippocrates) recommended it for stomach ailments.

Theological Balance

Apostle Paul draws a clear line: “a little wine,” not excess. Scripture consistently warns against drunkenness:

Proverbs 20:1 – “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler.”
Ephesians 5:18 – “Do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit.”

At the same time, the Bible acknowledges proper uses:

Luke 10:34 – the Good Samaritan poured wine and oil on wounds for healing.

The Christian must discern the difference between use and abuse. Liberty is not license. Health and holiness require self-control (Galatians 5:23).

c). “For your stomach’s sake”

Timothy likely suffered from digestive issues. Stress, travel, irregular meals, and impure water all contributed to stomach ailments. In such cases, wine acted as a mild antiseptic and digestive aid.

Apostle Paul’s concern for Timothy’s health shows that God cares about physical wellbeing, not just spiritual. Ministry requires a strong vessel, and practical wisdom (like medicine, diet, and rest) complements faith.

Christians should embrace both prayer and practical care. To reject medicine in the name of faith is to reject one of God’s common graces.

d). “And your frequent infirmities”

Word Study

Greek: pyknas astheneias – “frequent weaknesses/illnesses.”
Timothy was not just occasionally sick; he struggled with recurring ailments.

This teaches us that:

Chronic illness does not mean lack of faith. Timothy was a spiritual giant yet physically weak.
God’s servants are still human. Even the most anointed leaders face frailty.
Grace shines in weakness. Apostle Paul himself confessed, “When I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

Ministry is not the absence of weakness but the presence of grace in weakness. God’s power is perfected when we admit our frailty and lean on His strength.

Chapter 5