Many states across the US have been legalizing the use of marijuana, which has increased the number of users—or at least allowed them to talk about it more publicly. My initial, biased opinion on this has always been strictly against it. However, as more people I know begin to indulge, it makes me wonder if I am being too harsh in my stance.

Let’s step away from personal opinion and look at a few arguments for and against the use of marijuana from a biblical standpoint.

Definitions First

To ensure we don’t argue over points that distract from the overall discussion, let’s define the terms we’ll use:

• Cannabis: The original plant.
• Marijuana: The flower/bud of the plant, typically smoked or consumed for its psychoactive effects (high THC content).
• Hemp: Cannabis containing little-to-no THC (≤0.3%).

Sin: Disobeying Governing Authority

The most direct and unavoidable biblical argument against marijuana use in many places today comes from the Apostle Paul:

“Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (Romans 13:2)

Paul makes it clear that if you break the law on earth, you are rebelling against an authority God has instituted. This applies to all laws, from extreme felonies to those we may view as less important, such as jaywalking.

As an Ohioan, you might argue that since the state made it legal, you’re fine. However, it is still illegal at the federal level in the United States. Therefore, consuming it means you are still rebelling against the governing authority. According to a strict reading of Romans 13:2, this is a sin.

Not Sin: God Created It

One common opinion I constantly hear (often from non-believers, but sometimes from Christians) is, “God created everything, including marijuana. This means it’s fine to enjoy.”

Believers will often tie in Genesis 1:29:

“Then God said, ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.’” (Genesis 1:29)

We recognize the positive impact of cannabis and observe the clear advantages of hemp in oils, fibers, and various products. The potential benefits of the plant itself should not be overlooked.

However, saying “God created it, so it’s fine to consume” is a major logical leap. Yes, God created it, and God saw that it was good (Genesis 1:12). That doesn’t automatically mean we should consume it—or consume it in a form such as smoking. God created poison ivy. Why aren’t you going around munching on that?

In fact, the first sin committed was by people who ate a fruit they were told not to consume. In the next chapter of Genesis, we see limitations to God’s allowance:

“And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”” (Genesis 2:16-17)

God put a restriction on the allowance. His creation is good, but our usage is conditional.

Biblical Principles

Beyond government law, two biblical principles are crucial when considering any substance use:

1. Be Sober-Minded

The Bible calls us to maintain clarity of mind:

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

While “sober mind” often makes us think of alcohol, the meaning is deeper: it is about being clear-minded and rational so that the devil cannot easily sway you, and you can exercise sound judgment. If your use blurs your judgment or makes you emotionally vulnerable, you are stepping away from this command.

2. Guard Against Gluttony and Other Sins

I often hear that smoking marijuana increases your craving for food or snacking (commonly known as “the munchies”). Be aware that this behavior could lead you to commit a different sin:

“Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.” (Philippians 3:19)

If smoking marijuana is causing you to overindulge in food (gluttony), or leads to a lack of productivity, or causes you to commit any other sin, then you must stop immediately.

“And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.” (Matthew 5:30)

“It Helps Me Draw Closer To God”

Some people report that smoking marijuana helps them draw closer to God, helping them read the Bible or pray. For this, you must understand where your heart is.

When I gave in to my sin of lust, I often felt a stronger desire to pick up the Bible afterward than before. That didn’t make my lustful actions good; if anything, it was conviction. If you experience a similar cycle with marijuana (indulgence followed by a guilt-driven desire for conviction), you should stop immediately. The Holy Spirit is the only substance you need to draw closer to God.

Conclusion

The answer to whether marijuana use is a sin is highly dependent on your circumstances:

If you live anywhere in the United States or in any country where marijuana is illegal at any level, you are sinning according to Romans 13:2.

If you are consuming it to the extent that you are not in a clear-minded, rational state, you are sinning (1 Peter 5:8).

If it causes you to commit other sins (like gluttony, laziness, or apathy), you must cut it out of your life (Matthew 5:30).

If none of these apply to your usage, I strongly recommend you go to prayer and honestly ask the Lord for direction. Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).