The question of whether a Christian should work in an establishment that sells alcohol or tobacco is one that does not have a definitive yes or no answer according to the Bible. There are several factors to consider when determining if such employment would be appropriate for a follower of Christ.
Potential Stumbling Block
One concern is that working in a place that sells alcohol or tobacco could cause a fellow Christian to stumble if they have an issue with drunkenness or addiction (Romans 14:13, 21). A Christian must be sensitive to not causing their brothers and sisters in Christ to fall into sin. If selling alcohol or tobacco would embolden a Christian’s addiction or cause them to think using such substances is acceptable, then that would be a reason to avoid such work.
Christian Liberty
On the other hand, the Bible does not forbid the use of alcohol outright, although drunkenness is clearly prohibited (Ephesians 5:18). Some Christians believe they have the freedom in Christ to use alcohol moderately without sinning. Likewise, tobacco use is not specifically forbidden in Scripture. So there is no direct biblical command stating that selling alcohol or tobacco is inherently sinful (Colossians 2:16). A Christian could have the personal conviction that it is fine for them to work in such an establishment.
Avoiding the Appearance of Evil
A significant consideration is whether such employment gives the appearance of participating in ungodly behavior and causes outsiders to question the sincerity of one’s faith. Christians are exhorted to avoid every kind of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22), and to be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone (Romans 12:17). Working where alcohol and tobacco are sold could project the wrong message, even if the Christian themself does not drink or smoke.
Gospel Witness
On the positive side, working in such an establishment provides opportunities to develop relationships with people who do not know Christ, to treat them with Christlike love, and to share the gospel. Just as Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners, a Christian working in this environment could have a chance to shine their light and share their faith where it is much needed (Matthew 5:16).
Motives and Conscience
Ultimately, a Christian must prayerfully evaluate their own motivations and be fully convinced that working where alcohol and tobacco are sold is right for them (Romans 14:5). If they sense they are rationalizing or compromising their faith for sake of money or convenience, they should refrain from such work. But if they can do it with a clear conscience and pure motives, it may be permissible.
Setting an Example
A Christian working where alcohol and tobacco are sold has a responsibility to live as an example of Christ in that job. This would include not partaking in the use of such substances themselves, treating customers with respect, working diligently, being honest in business dealings, and looking for opportunities to do good and share one’s faith (Titus 2:7-8, 1 Peter 2:12). The believer still represents Christ even while working in such an establishment.
Abstaining from Actual Sin
Additionally, the Christian should abstain from any practices at work that would constitute actual sin. For example, knowingly selling alcohol or tobacco to someone under age or already intoxicated would be morally wrong. Promoting the use of such substances in an unethical way just to make more sales could also be considered participation in sinful behavior.
Seeking God’s Will
Discerning the will of God requires seeking Him in prayer and studying the Scriptures (James 1:5, 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Fellow Christian friends and mentors could provide valuable insight about working where alcohol and tobacco are sold. God may speak through godly counsel to confirm His will on such an individualized decision (Proverbs 11:14).
Being Led by the Spirit
The Holy Spirit dwelling within the believer will convict them if such work is inappropriate or not the best choice. Christians must be sensitive to obey the Spirit’s leading rather than disregard their conscience (Romans 8:14). His guidance combined with biblical wisdom provides the means to make a God-honoring decision.
Potential for More Good
In some instances, a Christian working where alcohol and tobacco are sold could have even greater opportunity to show the love of Christ and impact people for eternity than someone working elsewhere. For example, a manager who sets a standard of ethics and integrity and treats employees fairly could powerfully represent Christ in that role. The potential influence for good must be weighed carefully.
Seeking the Interests of Others
As believers, we are exhorted not just to look out for our own interests, but also the interests of others (Philippians 2:4). So when contemplating such work, we must consider how it could affect fellow Christians who may be strongly opposed to using alcohol and tobacco themselves. Exercising our freedom should not cause problems for others.
Avoiding Legalism
There is also a danger of binding someone’s conscience to a manmade rule not found in the Bible. Unless Scripture expressly forbids something, we should exercise caution about saying Christians absolutely cannot work in certain establishments. That could be bordering on legalistic thinking (Colossians 2:20-23).
Seeking Godly Counsel
Because reasonable cases could be made on both sides, it is prudent for a Christian to seek out counsel from spiritually mature believers before taking a job selling alcohol or tobacco (Proverbs 15:22). Godly mentors could help provide clarity about the right choice in light of scriptural principles and that individual’s personality and circumstances.
Examining Personal Convictions
A believer must also carefully examine their own conscience and convictions (Romans 14:22-23). After praying for God’s direction and seeking counsel, they must ultimately be persuaded one way or the other in their own mind and follow their conscience. Acting against their convictions would be sin.
A Matter of Conscience
In summary, since the Bible does not directly forbid selling alcohol and tobacco in all cases, whether a Christian should work in such an establishment or not becomes a matter of personal conscience. The decision requires much prayerful consideration of various factors to determine what choice honors Christ and avoids stumbling others. Absolute dogmatism likely goes beyond biblical evidence in this matter.
Growing in Christlikeness
Whatever choice the believer makes, their foremost aim should be pursuing growth in Christlikeness. This includes acting in love, avoiding participation in evil, seeking to glorify God, and being led by the Holy Spirit. Christians with mutual love and grace can hold differing views about working where alcohol and tobacco are sold.
In conclusion, there is no single right answer to this issue that applies to every Christian in every situation. The Bible does provide helpful principles to prayerfully consider when making such a decision. But determining the will of God ultimately requires following one’s Spirit-guided conscience as a maturing disciple of Christ.