tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3743286130964155757.post-84919531396057065152008-04-29T19:12:00.000-07:002008-04-29T19:12:00.000-07:002008-04-29T19:12:00.000-07:00Jimbo,<BR/><BR/>Being a Christian, even one involved in ministry, does not prohibit you from home brewing. I home brew and I’m active in my church. Just ask these guys: <A HREF="http://www.eriv.net/ministries/riverbrew/" REL="nofollow">RiverBrew</A> <BR/><BR/>That being said, I'd keep clear of gatherings that involve illegal substances. Not just because you’re a Christian, but also because it’s the law. If your friends want to do that kind of stuff, that’s their business, but do the really need to do it around you if it bothers you? Have you asked them to stop? Would your buddies refrain from the weed at these gatherings if you asked them to?<BR/><BR/>Regarding your alcoholic buddy, you really don't want to enable him with his bad habit. (Just curious, how do you define an alcoholic?) If you buddy has a real problem with alcohol, it would be best not to lead him astray. (<A HREF="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2014:21-22;&version=31;" REL="nofollow">Romans 14:21-22</A>) But don't abandon him as a friend. The best thing you could do is be a good example and be a good friend. Try to hang out with him and do stuff not related to beer and see how it goes. Just a thought...<BR/><BR/>If you feel that home brewing will hurt others, it maybe a good idea to stop. Or just stop doing it with your alcoholic buddy. Maybe you need new brew buddies. Ever thought about starting your own home brewing ministry? My thought is, brewing beer is a great hobby, but it also comes with a need to be responsible. If you can't appreciate the beer you make, by drinking it responsibly, you shouldn't home brew. That's something your friend should keep in mind, and something you should be mindful of as well. If you know he has a weakness, don’t tempt him, plain and simple. And frankly its good advice for a Christian or a non-Christian.<BR/><BR/>Hope that helps, shoot me an e-mail if you want to talk more off line… bryon[at]homebrewbeet.net<BR/><BR/>Cheers and God Bless!<BR/><BR/>vgrid, I'll get you a response some time tomorrow, thanks!Bryonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09477503566985637974noreply@blogger.com