I just ran across this news announcement on Fox News about the popular Duck Dynasty family’s decision to produce their own “Duck Commander Wine”. Unfortunately, it is receiving some negative news attention due to an organization that cancelled their invitation to speak in response to the wine announcement. However, in defense of the organization, Family Ministries, I think their decision was wise considering their primary audience at the event was going to be teens, some of which have dealt with alcohol or drug addiction. This is one of those instances where organizations and individuals must be careful not to cause others to sin (Romans 14:21).
On a related note, I was disheartened and disappointed by the many comments attached to this story on Facebook (see the FoxNews timeline stream here). There are many negative, even downright rude, comments that are stating the Robertson’s or Family Ministries are being hypocritical in their decisions. First of all, they have the right to do whatever they desire and both organizations are honoring their beliefs and values. The Robertson’s obviously enjoy wine, and whatever issues of alcohol abuse may have existed in the past must be under control or I doubt they would have pursued this venture.
Secondly, I must say (and I shared this on my Facebook site) that I never understand why so many people seem to think that being a Christian means you are prohibited from drinking. The Bible never states that having wine or beer is sinful, unless it leads to drunkenness (Galatians 5:21) or causes others to sin (Romans 14:21). In fact, Ecclesiastes 9:7 says, “Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do.” Judging by the Robertson’s track record of integrity thus far, I see no reason to see this decision to produce their own wine as “red flag”. Rather, I look forward to enjoying their wine with my brothers and sisters in Christ, and hopefully sharing a glass with some who don’t yet know my Lord and Savior. This might just be the catalyst to some great conversation that could open doors or knock down walls. I pray the Lord blesses the fruit of this vine for the Robertson’s!
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Choosing Perspective 