Topical Encyclopedia Tobacco, a plant of the genus Nicotiana, is primarily known for its leaves, which are dried and processed for smoking, chewing, or snuffing. While the Bible does not explicitly mention tobacco, as it was unknown in the ancient Near East, the principles found in Scripture can be applied to the use of tobacco and its effects on the body and spirit.Biblical Principles and the Body The Bible emphasizes the importance of caring for the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 , 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 underscores the responsibility of believers to maintain their physical health as a form of honoring God. Tobacco use, particularly smoking, has been scientifically linked to numerous health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems. From a biblical perspective, knowingly engaging in activities that harm the body could be seen as contrary to the call to honor God with one's physical being. Self-Control and Addiction The Bible also speaks to the importance of self-control, a fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23 : "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Tobacco use can lead to addiction, which may compromise an individual's ability to exercise self-control. This lack of control can become a spiritual issue, as believers are called to live lives that are not dominated by any form of bondage (1 Corinthians 6:12: "Everything is permissible for me, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be mastered by anything"). Influence and Witness Believers 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 states, "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 tobacco, particularly in cultures where it is viewed negatively, can impact a Christian's witness and influence. It is important for believers to consider how their actions, including tobacco use, might affect their testimony and the perception of the Christian faith by others. Stewardship of Resources The Bible encourages wise stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to individuals. Proverbs 21:20 says, "Precious treasures and oil are in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man consumes them." The financial cost of tobacco can be significant, and believers are encouraged to use their resources in ways that honor God and support their families and communities. In summary, while tobacco is not directly addressed in Scripture, the principles of honoring the body, exercising self-control, maintaining a positive witness, and stewarding resources wisely provide guidance for believers in considering the use of tobacco. Topical Bible Verses 1 Corinthians 6:20For you are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. Topicalbible.org 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Romans 12:1 Romans 14:10 Romans 14:23 Galatians 5:21 Library Tobacco. His Religious Experience. Tries to be a Methodist. Hopes to Become ... Visitors and Pastimes In the Sod Cellar Chapter four What the Big Chest Contained Leaving Home Labors in a New Field Temperance and the Teen Age Evil Habits and Injurious Indulgences. Resources Medical marijuana - what does the Bible say? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Christian view of smoking? Is smoking a sin? | GotQuestions.org What is the Abyss? | GotQuestions.org Smoke: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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