Alcohol abuse
Is alcohol abuse a sin? Or rather if someone suffers from alcoholism and continues to drink, are they sinning?
Yes, alcohol abuse is a sin (Proverbs 23:20, 31-33; Romans 13:13). Alcoholism can provide an explanation for drunkenness, but alcoholism does not free a person from individual responsibility of drunkenness or other sins. Alcohol abuse is still a sin.
If your second question has in mind the scenario of an alcoholic person intending to drink in moderation, wisdom and Christian common sense enter the picture. It is not wise for a person struggling with alcoholism to have temptation at arm’s length. Additionally, continued drinking by the person dealing with alcoholism can result in further harm to one’s body.
If you are looking for Christian resources in treating alcoholism, they are available from WLCFS Christian Family Solutions, an organization within WELS.