At theology school, I became interested in the different kinds of sin people unknowingly fall into. I was particularly intrigued by habitual sins such as smoking and decided to research if such sins impacted going to heaven. During my research, I spoke to my theology professors and pastors to get their views. A week ago, my college students asked me if smoking was a sin, according to the Bible. Many believed it was not a sin and would not hinder one from going to heaven. Based on my research and knowledge of the subject, I was able to answer this question comprehensively and put all the misconceptions to rest. We had a wonderful class where we discussed the topic, Can you go to heaven if you smoke?
Scripture does not mention anywhere that one can go to heaven if they smoke. However, we are told that God has availed everything good and lawful to us, but not everything is beneficial in 1 Corinthians 6:12.As Christians, we are responsible for deciding what habits and behaviors we will live by. God also expects us to turn away from our old bad habits when we are born again if we want to go to heaven.
In this article, I invite you to join me as I examine what the Bible says about smoking, whether God will forgive those who smoke, and much more!
What does the Bible say about smoking?
The Bible is silent about smoking. No verse explicitly mentions that you should not smoke. However, God included some principles in His word that explain that smoking is wrong and should be seen as a sin. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, according to 1 Corinthians 6:19–20. We are stewards of our physical bodies, and God commands us to take good care of our bodies. Unhealthy habits such as smoking do not glorify God, as they endanger God’s dwelling place.
Smoking leads to diseases in the heart and lungs, which could be detrimental to our physical health. These conditions could limit our ability to praise, worship, serve, and fulfill the purpose of God. The Bible has given all Christians free will, but we are cautioned in 1 Corinthians 6:12 to consider our habits, as everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial to us and our walk with God.
Anything that takes control of us and takes the place of God is explained as being displeasing to God. According to Exodus 20:4-5, God does not like sharing the glory with anyone. Smoking is very addictive, and one can neglect other activities that draw them near to God to go and smoke. Prioritizing anything above God and growing closer to Him is not right in God’s eyes. God urges us in Song of Solomon 2:15 to catch little foxes, to identify those underlying habits early, and to seek the Holy Spirit’s help to fight them off as they lead to long-term detrimental consequences.
Will God forgive me if I keep smoking?
God is merciful and compassionate. He is ready to forgive us for our sins. Scripture explains in 1 John 1:9 that the only way to attain God’s forgiveness is by asking for it and being intentional about turning away from our bad behaviors. In this case, that would be smoking.
If you, as a smoker, want to quit smoking and are intentional about taking steps to actively stop the habit, God will see your heart and even help you with the process. But do not manipulate God as he cannot be fooled according to Galatians 6:7-9. You cannot ask for forgiveness and then continue in the bad habit, you will surely suffer the consequences of your choices.
Does smoking mean I am a fallen Christian?
The Bible does not categorically point out that smoking makes you a fallen Christian. A fallen Christian is an unsaved Christian who has not believed in Jesus Christ. However, we cannot say that if one is smoking, then they are a fallen Christian, what makes one a Christian is the act of trusting in Jesus Christ.
Nevertheless, smoking hurts our health and other areas of our spiritual life because it is addictive, and this can limit your Christian walk of faith. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, we are told that everything is good, but not everything is beneficial, so we should be wise in our choices.
Can I go to heaven if I keep smoking but believe in God?
There is no scriptural evidence to show that one will be allowed into heaven if they keep smoking but believe in God. The Bible explains that after salvation, God expects the born-again believer to turn from their bad habits and ways because they are now aware of the Christian living standards of God. If you choose to get saved and make no intentional efforts to change your bad habits, the Bible says you will not go to heaven.
Hebrews 10:26-27 is clear that if, as a believer, you continue sinning deliberately, there is no more sacrifice for that sin that is left for you. Additionally, you will be condemned to judgment for your sin.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
