Chewing tobacco, a form of smokeless tobacco, involves placing a portion of tobacco between the cheek and gum or teeth and chewing. This practice has been prevalent in various cultures throughout history, though it is not directly mentioned in the Bible. However, principles from Scripture can be applied to understand a biblical perspective on the use of substances like chewing tobacco.

Biblical Principles on the Body and Health

The Bible emphasizes the importance of caring for the body, which is considered a temple of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 , the Apostle Paul writes, "Do you not know that your body is a temple 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 glorify God with your body." This passage suggests that believers should avoid practices that harm the body, as it is a vessel for God's presence.

Self-Control and Sobriety

Scripture frequently highlights the virtue of self-control, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). The use of substances that can lead to addiction or harm, such as chewing tobacco, may conflict with the call to live a life of self-discipline. Proverbs 25:28 states, "Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control." This imagery underscores the vulnerability and potential for harm when self-control is not exercised.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

The Bible advises believers to avoid practices that can lead to harm or ensnarement. In 1 Corinthians 10:23 , Paul writes, "Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible, but not everything is edifying." While the Bible does not explicitly prohibit chewing tobacco, the principle of seeking what is beneficial and edifying can guide believers in making wise choices regarding their health and habits.

Influence and Witness

Christians are called to be a light to the world and to live in a way that reflects Christ's love and holiness. Matthew 5:16 encourages believers, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." The use of substances like chewing tobacco, which may be viewed negatively or as harmful, can impact one's witness and influence on others.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not specifically address chewing tobacco, the principles of caring for the body, exercising self-control, avoiding harmful practices, and maintaining a positive witness provide guidance for believers. These principles encourage a lifestyle that honors God and promotes physical and spiritual well-being.1 Corinthians 6:19
What? know you not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which you have of God, and you are not your own?
Topicalbible.org

1 Corinthians 3:16
Know you not that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?
Topicalbible.org

Tobacco.
... A neighbor of ours on the farm used to go to town in the spring and buy enough chewing
tobacco to last him until after harvest, and flour to last the family ...
/.../judy/questionable amusements and worthy substitutes/i tobacco.htm

His Religious Experience. Tries to be a Methodist. Hopes to Become ...
... drew out the twist and bit off a "chaw." It raised quite a laugh, in which the
superintendent himself joined; and this ended for life my chewing tobacco to be ...
/.../chapter iii his religious experience.htm

In the Sod Cellar
... boys form while they are young. You remember I told you that smoking and
chewing tobacco ruin many a life. Now, I am not going to ...
//christianbookshelf.org/byrum/how john became a man/chapter ii in the sod.htm

Caught Unawares
... One by one he recalled his sins"smoking and chewing tobacco, drinking whisky and
beer, stealing, lying, card-playing, betting, gambling, and many other things ...
/.../byrum/how john became a man/chapter ix caught unawares.htm

What the Big Chest Contained
... if we could think up some way to get into that chest when the old folks are gone
away to town," he suggested, "we could get all the chewing tobacco we would ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/byrum/how john became a man/chapter iii what the big.htm

Evidences of Regeneration.
... Has he still any habit the character of which he has either mistaken or not considered;
such as smoking, chewing, or snuffing tobacco, using injurious ...
/.../finney/systematic theology/lecture xxx evidences of regeneration.htm

Instructions to Converts.
... Chewing and smoking tobacco are mere acts of intemperance. If they use these mere
stimulants when there is no necessity for it, what is that but intemperance? ...
/.../finney/lectures on revivals of religion/lecture xx instructions to converts.htm

Evil Habits and Injurious Indulgences.
... are told that thousands of tons are used annually in smoking and chewing in different ...
Like alcohol and tobacco, the word opium does not appear in the Scriptures ...
//christianbookshelf.org/orr/the gospel day /chapter xiv evil habits and.htm

Another Wonderful Record of 25.
The Wonders of Prayer. <. ...
/.../various/the wonders of prayer/another wonderful record of 25 00.htm

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