The Bible, as a sacred text, does not explicitly mention smoking. Tobacco, as we know it today, was unknown in the ancient Near East during the periods when the Bible was written. However, this does not mean that the Bible is silent on the principles that can guide a Christian’s approach to smoking. By examining biblical principles related to the body, health, and stewardship, we can derive a thoughtful, compelling, and biblically-informed perspective on smoking.
First, it is important to understand that the Bible places significant emphasis on the body as God’s creation and temple. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, Paul writes:
"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."
This passage underscores the idea that our bodies are not merely our own possessions to treat as we please. Instead, they are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we are called to honor God with how we treat them. Smoking, which is widely recognized to have harmful effects on the body, seems to conflict with this call to honor God with our physical being. The health risks associated with smoking, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues, indicate that smoking can be a form of self-harm, which contradicts the biblical principle of caring for the body as God’s temple.
Additionally, the Bible calls Christians to be wise stewards of the resources and gifts God has given them. This includes not only financial resources but also our health and well-being. In 1 Corinthians 4:2, Paul states:
"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful."
This principle of stewardship can be extended to how we treat our bodies. By choosing to engage in behaviors that are known to be harmful, such as smoking, one could argue that we are failing to be faithful stewards of the health and life that God has entrusted to us. The concept of stewardship encourages us to make choices that promote health and well-being, rather than those that jeopardize it.
Moreover, the Bible encourages believers to avoid behaviors that can lead to addiction or enslavement. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul writes:
"I have the right to do anything," you say—but not everything is beneficial. "I have the right to do anything"—but I will not be mastered by anything.
Smoking is highly addictive, and many people find themselves enslaved to the habit, despite knowing its dangers. This addiction can dominate a person’s life, leading to a lack of self-control and mastery over one’s own actions. The Bible’s call to avoid being mastered by anything suggests that Christians should be cautious about engaging in behaviors that can lead to addiction and loss of self-control.
Furthermore, the Bible speaks to the importance of living a life that sets a positive example for others. In Matthew 5:16, Jesus says:
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
As Christians, we are called to be a light to the world, reflecting Christ’s love and righteousness in our actions. Engaging in behaviors that are widely recognized as harmful, such as smoking, may hinder our ability to be a positive example to others. Instead, we are encouraged to live in a way that glorifies God and promotes the well-being of ourselves and those around us.
Additionally, the principle of loving our neighbor as ourselves, as stated in Mark 12:31, can also be applied to the issue of smoking. Secondhand smoke poses significant health risks to those around us, including family members, friends, and even strangers. By choosing to smoke, we may inadvertently harm others, which is contrary to the biblical command to love and care for our neighbors.
While the Bible does not explicitly address smoking, it provides numerous principles that can guide a Christian’s approach to this issue. The call to honor God with our bodies, to be wise stewards of our health, to avoid addiction, to set a positive example, and to love our neighbors all suggest that smoking is not in alignment with biblical teachings.
In addition to these biblical principles, it is also helpful to consider the wisdom of well-known Christian literature on the topic. For instance, C.S. Lewis, in his book "The Screwtape Letters," touches on the idea of self-indulgence and the subtle ways in which harmful habits can take root in our lives. While Lewis does not specifically address smoking, his insights into the nature of temptation and the importance of self-discipline can be applied to the issue of smoking.
Ultimately, as Christians, we are called to live lives that reflect the love, wisdom, and holiness of God. This includes making choices that promote health, well-being, and the flourishing of ourselves and others. While smoking may not be explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the principles and teachings of Scripture provide clear guidance on how to approach this issue in a way that honors God and reflects His love to the world.
