MH page 340

The liquor interest is a power in the world. It has on its side the combined strength of money, habit, appetite. Its power is felt even in the church. Men whose money has been made, directly or indirectly, in the liquor traffic, are members of churches, “in good and regular standing.” Many of them give liberally to popular charities. Their contributions help to support the enterprises of the church and to sustain its ministers. They command the consideration shown to the money power. Churches that accept such members are virtually sustaining the liquor traffic. Too often the minister has not the courage to stand for the right. He does not declare to his people what God has said concerning the work of the liquor seller. To speak plainly would mean the offending of his congregation, the sacrifice of his popularity, the loss of his salary.

Institutions and churches compromise their moral standing when they accept financial support derived from the liquor trade. Addresses the ethical compromise of religious organizations benefiting from wealth generated by harmful industries.

But above the tribunal of the church is the tribunal of God. He who declared to the first murderer, “The voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto Me from the ground” ( Genesis 4:10 ), will not accept for His altar the gifts of the liquor dealer. His anger is kindled against those who attempt to cover their guilt with a cloak of liberality. Their money is stained with blood. A curse is upon it.

God holds accountable those who profit from the liquor trade, and divine judgment rejects ill-gotten gains. Presents a theological perspective on divine justice and the moral taint of wealth acquired through alcohol sales.