What is the meaning of revelry in biblical terms?

Revelry, in biblical terms, refers to a kind of excessive or riotous celebration that often involves indulgence in sinful behaviors. The term is frequently associated with drunkenness, debauchery, and immoral activities that go against the teachings of the Bible. To understand revelry from a biblical perspective, it is essential to explore its context within the scriptures, its implications for personal ethics, and the pathway to redemption through Christ.

The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of revelry in several of his epistles, warning Christians against such behaviors. In Galatians 5:19-21, Paul lists the "works of the flesh," which include revelries, among other sins like adultery, fornication, idolatry, and drunkenness. He states, "Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God" (Galatians 5:19-21, ESV). Here, revelry is directly linked to behaviors that are contrary to the Spirit-led life that Christians are called to live.

The term "revelry" itself comes from the Greek word "komos," which refers to a festive procession or a noisy celebration, often associated with excessive drinking and licentiousness. In the ancient Greco-Roman world, such celebrations were common during festivals dedicated to pagan gods. These events were marked by a lack of self-control and moral restraint, leading participants into various forms of sin. Paul's admonition to avoid revelry is a call for Christians to reject these worldly practices and to live lives that reflect their faith and commitment to Christ.

In Romans 13:13-14, Paul again addresses the issue of revelry, urging believers to live honorably: "Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires" (Romans 13:13-14, ESV). This passage highlights the contrast between living a life of revelry and living a life that is pleasing to God. By "putting on the Lord Jesus Christ," Christians are called to embody the virtues and values of their Savior, rejecting the sinful desires of the flesh.

Revelry is not merely about the external act of partying or celebration; it is indicative of a deeper spiritual issue. It reflects a heart that is not aligned with God's will and a life that is not submitted to His lordship. The Bible consistently teaches that true joy and fulfillment are found not in the fleeting pleasures of excess and indulgence but in a relationship with God. Psalm 16:11 declares, "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore" (Psalm 16:11, ESV). This verse underscores the idea that lasting joy and satisfaction come from being in God's presence and following His ways.

The consequences of revelry are not only spiritual but also practical. Excessive indulgence in alcohol, promiscuity, and other sinful behaviors can lead to broken relationships, health problems, and a loss of personal integrity. Proverbs 23:29-35 paints a vivid picture of the destructive effects of drunkenness: "Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who tarry long over wine; those who go to try mixed wine. Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder. Your eyes will see strange things, and your heart utter perverse things. You will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, like one who lies on the top of a mast. 'They struck me,' you will say, 'but I was not hurt; they beat me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake? I must have another drink'" (Proverbs 23:29-35, ESV). This passage highlights the sorrow and regret that often accompany a lifestyle of revelry.

Despite the warnings against revelry and its consequences, the Bible also offers hope and redemption. Through Jesus Christ, there is forgiveness and the power to overcome sinful behaviors. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, Paul provides a powerful message of transformation: "Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God" (1 Corinthians 6:9-11, ESV). This passage emphasizes that no matter one's past, there is hope for a new beginning in Christ. Through His sacrifice on the cross, believers are cleansed from their sins and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live righteous lives.

The journey from revelry to redemption involves repentance, a turning away from sin, and a turning toward God. Repentance is more than just feeling sorry for one's actions; it is a decisive change of mind and heart that leads to a change in behavior. In Acts 3:19, Peter calls for repentance: "Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out" (Acts 3:19, ESV). This turning back to God is the first step in experiencing His forgiveness and the transformative power of His grace.

Living a life free from revelry also requires the cultivation of self-control, a fruit of the Spirit. In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul lists the qualities that the Holy Spirit produces in the lives of believers: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law" (Galatians 5:22-23, ESV). Self-control enables Christians to resist the temptations of the flesh and to live in a way that honors God.

Furthermore, the Christian community plays a vital role in supporting individuals in their journey away from revelry. Fellowship with other believers provides accountability, encouragement, and mutual support. Hebrews 10:24-25 exhorts believers to "consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near" (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV). Being part of a community of faith helps individuals stay focused on their spiritual growth and avoid the pitfalls of sinful behaviors.

In conclusion, revelry in biblical terms represents a lifestyle of excessive indulgence and sinful behavior that is contrary to the teachings of Scripture. It reflects a heart that is not aligned with God's will and leads to various negative consequences. However, through Jesus Christ, there is hope for redemption and transformation. By repenting of sin, cultivating self-control, and engaging in Christian fellowship, believers can overcome the temptations of revelry and live lives that honor God. The Bible's message is clear: true joy and fulfillment are found not in the fleeting pleasures of excess but in a relationship with God and living according to His ways.