Expert: Brenda Martin - 11/21/2006

Question
what is the christian view on whether soft drugs should be legalised? i am studying law at mmu and this is one of my assignments. many thanks
vicky miller

Answer
"WHAT IS THE CHRISTIAN VIEW ON WHETHER SOFT DRUGS SHOULD BE LEGALISED?"

It would not be correct for a Christian to comment on whether certain drugs should be legalized or not. History indicates that many people are going to obtain what they want regardless of its legality. Many individuals just do not care about the medical consequences of their actions, as is illustrated by the huge number of tobacco users in spite of overwhelming testimony about the dangers. But those who do care about medical and/or moral issues should have sufficient information upon which to base an informed decision.

On this point however it is of interest that, while approving alcoholic wine as a beverage, the Bible does not approve of it as a mind distorter: ‘Drunkards will not inherit God’s kingdom.’—1 Cor. 6:9, 10.

The principle is similar in the case of marijuana and/or cocaine. They serve no purpose as food or drink. They are used primarily to alter one’s mental state. This is harmful in several ways.

For example, such loss of control may lead to promiscuous sex with its consequences in disease, illegitimacy and broken homes. To avoid such problems, the Bible urges that “each one of you must learn to gain mastery over his body, . . . not giving way to lust like the pagans.”—1 Thess. 4:3-5, New English Bible.

But a person under the influence of drugs such as marijuana and cocaine usually does not have full “mastery over his body.” The drug does. Yet people need all their faculties to deal with today’s pressures and to protect themselves from deceptive attractions that can lead to disease and heartache. The Bible wisely points out that “thinking ability itself will keep guard over you, discernment itself will safeguard you, to deliver you from the bad way.”—Prov. 2:11-13.

All the best
Brenda