We, the members of Oak Grove Baptist Church of Shubuta, are totally against the legalization of any and all alcoholic beverages in Clarke County, Mississippi, including the city of Quitman, MS.
Pastor Wayne Hemmingway
Disagree with legalization
Can you name one good thing that comes from consuming alcohol? You’ll be hard pressed to come up with a convincing list of positive qualities for alcohol. The prevailing factor behind the call to go “wet” is always more money through taxes and revenues. Essentially, the desire for more money is the “lens” through which this issue is viewed. Consider viewing this issue through different lenses…..The Bible. The Bible is the authority to which Christians should defer and submit. Consider these Truths. “Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is intoxicated by it is not wise. “ Proverbs 20:1 NASB. “And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit.” Ephesians 5:18 HCSB.
I’m no legalist. Several references warn against drunkenness and behaviors to which consumption of alcohol can lead. The illusion of more income through alcohol sales is a panacea causing people to miss potential increases in negative areas like DUI/DWI, underage drinking, disorderly conduct, violent crime, auto accidents, sexual assaults, panhandling, burglary, and additional law enforcement.
As for me, I appreciate establishments where alcohol is not served or sold. I hope our area continues to stay that way. Wetter isn’t always better.
If you would like to join in an effort to keep Quitman dry, there will be a county wide meeting Saturday, May 21st at Calvary Baptist Church, Quitman, MS at 3:30 p.m.
Rev. J. Macon Phillips, pastor
Enterprise Baptist Church
