Smoking marijuana has become more popular in the current generation as even some states have gone ahead to legalize the use of marijuana for recreation. The question as to whether Christians can smoke marijuana or not has continued to be a heated debate among denominations. What even creates more conflict is that marijuana is not always used as a recreational drug but is also medicinal. A popular question that Christians often as is if Jesus smoked marijuana too. Did Jesus smoke marijuana?
There is nowhere in the Bible where Jesus is seen smoking marijuana. The word marijuana, or as people popular refer to it, ‘weed,’ is not even mentioned in the Bible. The Bible strongly encourages Christians to be sober-minded at all times and practice self-control. This might not be the case when one uses marijuana, as it affects the soberness of the brain.
So, what does the Bible say about marijuana? Why do some Christians believe that marijuana is always used sinfully? Can Christians smoke marijuana in a controlled manner? What Bible verses do Christians use to condemn the use of marijuana? Keep reading to find the answers to these questions and more.
What does the Bible say about marijuana?
There is no definite answer in the scripture as to whether Christians should use marijuana for recreation or medical purposes. However, a few biblical principles can guide us around smoking marijuana. First, the scripture tells us to be sober-minded and carry ourselves with dignity as we reflect Christ. Most of the time, this is not the case when one abuses marijuana.
Titus 2:1-5 reads, “You must teach what is appropriate to sound doctrine. Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love, and endurance. Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children. To be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.”
According to the mentioned verse, it is easy for one to go against the will of God if they are not sober-minded. Therefore, that should help one determine whether marijuana is good for Christians or not. As much as it can be used medicinally for good purposes, abusing it will tamper with one’s soberness and might lead to sinning.
Another verse in the Bible that can guide us around the use of marijuana is 1st Corinthians 6:12. “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be enslaved by anything.” First, studies prove that marijuana can become addictive, and you are simply a slave to what you are addicted to. Additionally, even though smoking marijuana is not utterly wrong, is it helpful? If this verse is anything to go by, Christians should not use marijuana for recreation.
Why do some Christians believe that marijuana is always used in a sinful way?
Some Christians argue that using marijuana for recreational or medicinal purposes is wrong as this drug is stereotypically associated with a societal group with an ungodly reputation. Additionally, other Christians argue that marijuana is still illegal and the scripture requires us to follow governing laws.
Romans 13:1-2 says, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. God has established the authorities that exist. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgments on themselves.”
Additionally, these Christians believe that smoking marijuana does not harm our bodies, yet we should take care of them as they are the temple of the Holy Spirit. 1st Corinthians 6:19-20 says, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your body.”
As Christians, whatever we do should honor God. Therefore, though something might not be utterly wrong, they are viewed through a sinful lens if they are not helpful or honoring God.
Can Christians smoke marijuana in a controlled manner?
Christians, theologians, and even bible scholars cannot agree on whether Christians should even smoke marijuana in the first place. Some argue that it is a sin to use marijuana, while others note that it is okay when used in regulated amounts.
Those who believe that smoking marijuana is not a sin mostly rely on the fact that marijuana has some health benefits, and if it is used well, it causes more good than harm. Donal O’Mathuna says this about marijuana, “To prevent nausea and vomiting, smoking marijuana is about effective as tablets made from a purified drug isolated from the plant. However, both were much less effective than conventional drugs used to treat nausea and vomiting.”
Therefore, as marijuana continues to gain popularity and be legalized, some Christians have changed their mind about it and believe that if consumed and regulated, it is not a sin. Additionally, the Bible encourages us to be sober-minded; a small dosage of marijuana should not tamper with the functioning of one’s brain. 1st Peter 5:8, “Be sober minded; be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
What Bible verses do Christians use to condemn the use of marijuana?
Those who believe that Christians should not use marijuana argue with the following verses;
Romans 13:13-14, “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.”
2nd Timothy 2:15 says, “Do your best to present yourself to God as approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handing the word of truth.”
Romans 12:1-2 reads, “I appeal to you, therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind; by testing, you may discern what the will of God is, what is acceptable and perfect.”
1st Corinthians 6:9-20, “O you do not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
Ephesians 5:18 notes, “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the spirit.”
1st peter 5:8; “Be sober-minded, be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
References
What Does the Bible Say About Smoking Marijuana?
Marijuana in the Bible – Is Smoking Weed A Sin?
Should Followers of Christ Use Recreational Marijuana
Marijuana to the Glory of God?
Medical marijuana – what does the Bible say?
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.
