Should Marijuana Be Legalized?
Introduction
The question of legalizing marijuana—whether for medicinal or recreational use—requires the Christian to weigh competing ethical duties.
On one hand are the principles of personal freedom and relief from suffering; on the other are the duties of stewardship of the body, avoiding harmful behaviors, and respecting civil law.
The decision is not about the substance itself, but the principles of its use and its effect on society.
1. The Principle of Stewardship and Bodily Health
The Christian perspective is founded on the duty to care for the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.
Stewardship of the Body: Christians are commanded to honor God with their bodies. If the use of a substance (like alcohol or drugs) impairs judgment, leads to addiction, or causes long-term physical or mental harm, it violates this principle of stewardship. The potential health consequences of marijuana, especially for developing brains, must be weighed seriously.
Scripture Says: "Do you not know that your bodies are temples 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 bodies" (1 Corinthians 6:19–20).
Avoiding Impairment and Addiction: While the Bible permits alcohol, it strictly condemns drunkenness (losing control and judgment) and warns against being enslaved to anything. If recreational marijuana use leads to impaired judgment or a state of spiritual and mental compromise, it falls under similar biblical warnings.
Scripture Says: "Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18).
2. The Medical Exception and Mercy
The most significant distinction often made by Christians involves the purpose of the use—recreation versus genuine medicinal necessity.
Mercy and Pain Relief: The Bible elevates the principle of mercy and the relief of suffering. If marijuana is proven to be the most effective medicine for severe pain, seizures, or other debilitating conditions, its therapeutic use can be viewed as an act of mercy consistent with God's compassion.
Scripture Says: "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds" (Psalm 147:3).
Distinguishing Purpose: This creates a practical distinction: Many Christians and biblical scholars argue that the medicinal use of a controlled substance to alleviate suffering is a righteous application of God-given resources, while recreational use for pleasure or escape remains ethically suspect due to the risk of impaired stewardship.
3. The Ethical and Civil Duty of Legalization
The question of legalization involves more than personal morality; it involves civil policy, justice, and social consequences.
Respect for Governing Authority: Christians are commanded to obey the civil law, even when they disagree with it, provided it does not compel them to sin. The decision to legalize ultimately rests with the governing authorities.
Scripture Says: "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established" (Romans 13:1).
Justice and Social Impact: Proponents of legalization often cite issues of social justice, noting that prohibition has led to disproportionate criminal penalties for minority groups. Christians who favor legalization often do so out of a concern for this systemic injustice (as discussed in the lesson on CRT) and the negative social consequences of mass incarceration. Opponents of legalization focus on the potential for increased addiction and public health issues within the community.
Conclusion
A Christian must approach the question of marijuana legalization with nuance. While the medicinal use to relieve suffering aligns with biblical mercy, the recreational use is highly questionable due to the duty of bodily stewardship and the risk of impaired judgment and addiction.
Ultimately, the policy decision to legalize must be weighed by the governing authorities, and the Christian should advocate for laws that promote justice, community safety, and responsible stewardship while prioritizing their personal commitment to remain self-controlled and honor God with their bodies.
