Is doing drugs a sin?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible indicates that Christians are to submit themselves to government leadership unless it violates God’s Word (Romans 13:1), so doing drugs is a sin if it is done against the law. Even if we live where recreational drugs are legal, our behavior should always be Christ-like (1 Corinthians 10). We must consider how our participation in certain activities could affect those around us (1 Corinthians 10:23-24, 31-33 ). Since so many have a past with drug abuse or have a painful relationship with a loved one who has struggled with addiction, it is often the wiser decision to refrain from using drugs altogether. Also, the principles the Bible uses for alcohol abuse can also be used for drug use (Proverbs 20:1, 23:29-32; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 6:10). Lastly and perhaps most important, recreational drugs are almost always a poor use of the body that God has graciously given to us. As believers, it is our duty to care for our body since it is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). If what we are putting into our body is deteriorating our brain or damaging our lungs, for example—we are certainly not being a good steward of our body.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• The Proverbs speak against alcohol abuse (Proverbs 20:1, 23:29-32).
• Scripture conveys the importance of having self-control: “A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls” (Proverbs 25:28).

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• The Bible clearly teaches Christians are to obey the "laws of the land” (Romans 13:1). This would certainly apply to illegal drug use. A Christian is called to obey the laws of their area and avoid illegal drugs.
• When it comes to states or nations where certain illicit drugs are legal, the Bible addresses this concern in 1 Corinthians 10. Verses 23-24 state, "'All things are lawful,' but not all things are helpful. 'All things are lawful,' but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor." The focus is on what is most beneficial to others. Paul concludes, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved" (vv. 31-33). Viewed from this biblical perspective, illicit drug use should be avoided since it offends others.
• Christians are to be good stewards of their body and glorify God with it. First Corinthians 6:19-20 teaches, "Or do you 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." If a person asks, "Will the use of X drug glorify God in my body?" the answer will usually be no. Though there may be some exceptions for medicinal purposes, the general principle is to avoid the use of any drug or substance that would dishonor God through our body.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

The Bible does not directly teach about the use or prohibition of particular drugs. It does, however, offer principles related to using illegal drugs or legal, but harmful, drugs (e.g., marijuana). Some argue their drug use, "Is my business and doesn't hurt anyone else,” but the Bible teaches the interconnectedness of all believers: "If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together" (1 Corinthians 12:26). Our choices regarding drug use impact our life, the lives of our family members, our Christian family, as well as those we would be able to serve more effectively without drug use. God desires His children to follow local laws, refrain from harmful drugs, honor Him with our bodies, and remember our choices impact those around us. Remembering these biblical principles can help us make better choices to bring glory to God and show His love to others.

UNDERSTAND

• Christians should defer to governing authorities and refrain from illegal drug use.
• Even legal drugs should be avoided if they do not help us to glorify God.
• Even in our Christian freedom, we should never behave in a way that will make others stumble.

REFLECT

• How do your choices about what you put into your body reflect your desire to honor God?
• When have you felt pressure to compromise your values because something was “socially acceptable” or “legal”?
• How can you practice self-control and stewardship of your body as a way of worshiping God?

ENGAGE

• How does today’s society’s view of drugs contrast with what the Bible teaches?
• How can we best teach people the right attitude toward drugs?
• In what ways can Christian freedom be misused when it comes to substances, and how can we guard against that?