> > Mich-and for the record, I knew that scripture would come up-ael
>
>
> (Because that horse ain't dead enough:)
>
> ...probably because for every line of scripture someone can quote as "pro," there's another that can be quoted "against."

Probably because moderation is an important element of a Christian life. Except for a few absolutes -- love thy God with all thy heart; in all things give thanks; etc -- a lot of teachings are about the middle ground. Consequently, there are cautions against extremes: drinking a little is ok, drinking too much is not. Judge right from wrong, but don't judge in the absolute manner of God. Respect religious leaders, but do not worship them. Quote these things out of context, or without regard for the other verses on the subject, and they can indeed be used to represent greater extremes than are intended.