As Christians, we are aware that the Bible considers drunkenness to be a sin, but what about marijuana use? Is smoking weed a sin in the Bible?
While you might believe it to be a sin, many Christians disagree. The Bible does not specifically mention heroin, nicotine, or marijuana as being sinful.
Cannabis sativa or hemp plant flowers and dried, shredded leaves are combined to make marijuana. The primary psychoactive (mind-altering) component of marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is in charge of the majority of the euphoric effects that recreational users seek. The substance is mostly present in resin made by the female cannabis plant’s leaves and buds.
What Christians Think About Marijuana Use?
Christians debate on whether it is permissible for people to use marijuana. Some argue that it is sinful in any context and should not be used for therapeutic or recreational purposes. Others argue that, while losing control is wrong, there is a legal, responsible, and righteous way to use marijuana.
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What Does the Bible Say About Marijuana?
Many drugs, including heroin, nicotine, and especially marijuana, are not mentioned as sins in the Bible.
However, some Christians argue that 1 Peter 5:8 indicates that using marijuana is sinful. This bible verse says “Be alert and composed. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for prey.” Thus it is interpreted that anything that clouds your mind, such as marijuana, clouds your path to God.
The primary function of marijuana is to get you high and experience the effects of the cannabis strain you are smoking. When you use marijuana, you give up control to an outside force and release self-control.
In 1 Peter 4:7 the bible says we should be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of our prayers. This shows that not being sober and the inability to control oneself is not godly.
It is also said in 1 Corinthians 6:12 that all things are lawful and we should not be brought under the power of anything including weed.
Is Smoking Marijuana or Weed Really a Sin?
Too much of anything, as they say, is bad for you. If you call yourself a “pothead,” you are most likely dependent on marijuana and are completely unaware of it. Whatever others say, I find marijuana to be highly addictive.
If you spend a lot of money on marijuana, you have an addiction. You have an addiction if you promised yourself and your loved ones that you would stop but then broke your promise.
If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana use, reach out to experts for assistance.
RELATED: Is Addiction a Sin in the Bible?
Smoking Weed vs. Drinking Alcohol
Although the Bible does not directly address marijuana use, Christians often use analogical reasoning to determine whether smoking weed is a sin. By extrapolating principles from Scripture and applying them to marijuana use, believers seek guidance on this matter.
While the Bible does not explicitly mention the recreational use of marijuana, it does provide numerous warnings about the perils of drunkenness. Ephesians 5:18 advises against becoming drunk, as it leads to excessive behavior, while Proverbs 23:20 caution against associating with intoxicated people.
The primary message of these verses is that any form of intoxication is considered a sin. Christians are called to avoid being controlled by any substance and instead be filled with the Spirit.
The Bible does not clearly state the prohibition of alcohol consumption, but it does caution against drunkenness. Some Christians choose to completely abstain from alcohol to avoid any potential wrongdoing, as mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 5:22.
However, others exercise self-control and moderation when consuming alcoholic beverages. If one can drink a small amount without becoming intoxicated, one may do so with a clear conscience.
In the case of marijuana, even a relatively small dosage can result in a state of intoxication. In fact, just 7 milligrams of THC can induce a high. This roughly equates to four to eight puffs of a marijuana cigarette, depending on the individual’s weight and other personal factors.
Marijuana can induce a mind-altering high that bears a resemblance to drunkenness. Both can impair judgment, cognitive functioning, restlessness, coordination, and reflex issues.
Consequently, it is plausible to infer that the Bible’s warnings against drunkenness can extend to marijuana intoxication.
What Does Marijuana Use Convey About a Person’s Values?
When determining whether the recreational use of marijuana constitutes a sin, it is essential to consider its impact on those around you.
Romans 14:20 provides valuable guidance. Although this verse explicitly addresses the consumption of food that was once considered “unclean,” its underlying principle can be extended to marijuana use.
While individuals may find justification for their own marijuana use if it does not lead to impaired judgment or addiction, it is crucial to recognize that their actions may have broader consequences. Their use of marijuana may reflect negatively on their values and potentially provide others with a reason to rationalize their own substance abuse.
Bottom Line
Despite its commercialization, marijuana has the potential to cause physical and spiritual harm. Marijuana smoking is clearly against God’s will and is sinful behavior.
God desires us to be healthy and to experience the joy of the Holy Spirit. Marijuana is not a part of that equation in any way. God warns us about the dangers of drugs and the inappropriate behavior that comes with them.
