Is it a sin or sinful to smoke marijuana?

[maryrev12]

This is exactly why Marijuana should be legalized as well. Regulation is an issue that should certainly be addressed to protect the rights of those who use mj for appropriate and legitimate reasons, as well as citizens who do not use, but must deal with the repercussions.

As for children, maybe the topic is too mature as they may not be able to rationally think for themselves, but this is an important topic that perhaps NEEDS addressing as it is a very relevant subject in today’s society.

As far as the use of mj is concerned, I suggest that others not judge what they don’t fully understand or have little experience with(not directed towards anyone, just in general). As with many things, it can be used as a tool for good or bad. The way people use it is ultimately the deciding factor, as with many things in life, whether or not it is a sin.

Finally, to all the above posters claiming that mj use out-right is a sin, please realize you have your own OPINION and interpretations, as do others. No need to judge. If you believe differently, then pray that the truth come forth.

Judge?? the name of the thread is, is it sinful to smkoe mj? does your response above mean that only those who think it isn’t sinful, should bother responding?

I think the jails are entirely too full of people who want to smoke it. I have to agree that putting people behind bars for years at a time is harsh. If alcohol is legal, then why not mj? I agree that the penalties are too harsh.

but thats not the topic of this thread.

 

[LegoGE1947]

Judge?? the name of the thread is, is it sinful to smkoe mj? does your response above mean that only those who think it isn’t sinful, should bother responding?

I think the jails are entirely too full of people who want to smoke it. I have to agree that putting people behind bars for years at a time is harsh. If alcohol is legal, then why not mj? I agree that the penalties are too harsh.

but thats not the topic of this thread.

We could just make everything legal! After all I don’t think this world is messed up enough!

 

[maryrev12]

We could just make everything legal! After all I don’t think this world is messed up enough!

I know- I’m torn on making it legal. I yield to the Church for guidance. I knew a guy who lost the use of his legs and lost an arm in the vietnam war. He was addicted to mj. He used it to escape, not because he was phsyically sick. He felt useless and wallowed in depression. He’d keep a pound in his freezer for his personal use. I’m not saying he was right to give up on life, I’m just saying-he wouldnt deserve the 10 years he’d get if he got popped. But I still don’t think the crime is worthy of the punishment.

 

[SCollegeKid]

Judge?? the name of the thread is, is it sinful to smkoe mj? does your response above mean that only those who think it isn’t sinful, should bother responding?

Certainly not, it means that if others have an apposing viewpoint, let them. I didn’t say agree with them or not respond, just said not to judge. Is it not our aim as Christian’s to not judge? I’m seeing too much bashing on somethings that is merely an subjective opinion.

I think the jails are entirely too full of people who want to smoke it. I have to agree that putting people behind bars for years at a time is harsh. If alcohol is legal, then why not mj? I agree that the penalties are too harsh.

but thats not the topic of this thread.

I agree, but I was replying to the statement at hand and that was my opinion, a valid opinion.

Also, not only are jails full, but good people who smoke and are caught and are lured into a jail system that turns them into criminals. Spend real time in prison and people become what and who they are around. It’s a continuous cycle.

 

[SCollegeKid]

We could just make everything legal! After all I don’t think this world is messed up enough!

Don’t take things out of context to attempt to make a sarcastic point.

 

[SCollegeKid]

I know- I’m torn on making it legal. I yield to the Church for guidance. I knew a guy who lost the use of his legs and lost an arm in the vietnam war. He was addicted to mj. He used it to escape, not because he was phsyically sick. He felt useless and wallowed in depression. He’d keep a pound in his freezer for his personal use. I’m not saying he was right to give up on life, I’m just saying-he wouldnt deserve the 10 years he’d get if he got popped. But I still don’t think the crime is worthy of the punishment.

See I personally do believe his reasons for using are wrong, but then again who am I to judge someone who’s been through so much? Poor guy.

As for the church for guidance, I look to God, the Bible, and my gut feelings for that. And I may not be as politically correct as some others on here, but I know when I do right or wrong and God lets me know too. And this gives me confidence to know who I am and what I believe.

 

[maryrev12]

Certainly not, it means that if others have an apposing viewpoint, let them. I didn’t say agree with them or not respond, just said not to judge. Is it not our aim as Christian’s to not judge? I’m seeing too much bashing on somethings that is merely an subjective opinion.

I agree, but I was replying to the statement at hand and that was my opinion, a valid opinion.

Also, not only are jails full, but good people who smoke and are caught and are lured into a jail system that turns them into criminals. Spend real time in prison and people become what and who they are around. It’s a continuous cycle.

well, you wrote

**Finally, to all the above posters claiming that mj use out-right is a sin, **please realize you have your own OPINION and interpretations, as do others. No need to judge. If you believe differently, then pray that the truth come forth.

I was clarifying that we are discussing whether or not its sinful… invaribly you are going to see 2 sides to this issue- the very topic invites it. but I’ve seen throughout the thread that folks who thinks its sinful get called out as judging.

 

[mystagogia]

Looks like we need a few “ifs” to address this.

IF marijuana were legal, and
IF criminal activity could be separated from marijuana production, distribution, and sale, and
IF we therapeutic uses of marijuana are valid beyond extant pain meds,

THEN would recreational marijuana usage be sinful?

Yes it would.

1. Drunkeness prohibition. Getting high is escapism that retards your growth. Marijuana induced euphoria is a deceptive dulling of self and awareness. It induces retardation, not growth.
2. Pollution of body/temple.
3. Euphoric experimentation with marijuana leads naturally towards dabbling with other euphoric vehicles. Drug addiction is extremely dangerous, very easy to fall into unawares and very hard to climb out of without destroying your own life and probably several others along the way. The last thing we need to do is clear the pathways to it.

Just say No is still the best policy.

 

[maryrev12]

See I personally do believe his reasons for using are wrong, but then again who am I to judge someone who’s been through so much? Poor guy.

As for the church for guidance, I look to God, the Bible, and my gut feelings for that. And I may not be as politically correct as some others on here, but I know when I do right or wrong and God lets me know too. And this gives me confidence to know who I am and what I believe.

Well so do I. The Bible says that Jesus said to His disciples, “those who hear you, hear me.” His apostles were the first bishops of His Church ( thats biblical)…the Church that the gates of hell will prevail against? “Low, I am with you always,even to the end of time” The Church is discussed in detail throughout the Bible. Truth is, the word " bible" is no where in the bible. It only came about because the Church put it together and gave it to us. Its very sacredness was proclaimed by the Bishops around 400 ad. They were guided by the Holy Spirit. Nothing God creates will crumble- His Church is still here and strong, guided by the Holy Spirit. The gates of hell will not prevail- Jesus is the head of the Church. The Bishops are His ambassadors. The Bible can not lead you into all truth- what about cloning? genetic engineering? How can the Bible solely teach us?How do we personally interpret its mysteries? Since the reformation and the doctrine of sola scriptura 10’s of thousands of opposing teachings have arisen- all claiming that theirs is the real truth. It is a sacred book- and I love it… but it can not stand up and speak about things - it is not alive- the Church gave us the Bible as a teaching tool- not the only rule.

The Bible teaches us to put away the distractions and to fight the fight… to run the race to win. MJ is not healthy…and our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit.

anyway, I thank the Lord for leading me out of it and other drug use… which, btw, I probably wouldn’t have tried other drugs had I not tried pot. It really is a gateway drug.

take care, and God Bless

 

[LegoGE1947]

Don’t take things out of context to attempt to make a sarcastic point.

Sorry sarcasm comes easy to me specially on issues like this. Also when I know personally so many Viet Nam vets whose minds are fried due to involvement in drugs and such when they were in the war, I have a real problem agreeing with anyone who says “What’s the harm in doing drugs like MJ?”

 

[jkiernan56]

the topic of the thread is- is it sinful to smoke marijuana? not is marijuana use the same as using alcohol.

I didn’t just fall of the truck, I know all about marijuana. I know people who use it. Lots of people. None grow it themselves. They support illegal drugs and take part in drug trafficking. It is a horrible underworld. stay on topic- the facts are facts. You didn’t start a “what if” thread.

As far as judging is concerned, I don’t judge anyone. This is a public discussion board and we are discussing whether or not using marijuana is sinful. You are judging me because I disagree with you- and you “hint” that I am self righteous. Is that your easy out? not to sound harsh, but thats how it sounded.

The world of legal marijuana does not exist here. Therefore we have a black and white issue. marijuana is a part of a larger drug trafficking trade, where more than just that drug is trafficked. People can also be trafficked and some of these cartels engage in that as well.

What if it was legal? thats another topic. And I may be inclined to agree with you. I used to smoke it. The Lord convicted me of it and asked me to stop- so I did.

facts are facts. How you obtain your pot is crucial to the topic of this thread.

As far as your alcohol argument, it is moot. Alcohol is legal and traded openly. It is not connected with the illegal drug trade. If I stumble accidentally upon the Jack Daniels factory, I do not have to worry about getting shot at. If my bar business is failing and I owe Jack Daniels money, I don’t fear for my life or family.

Also, and I said this already on this thread… historically it is believed that the wine in our Lords day was not as alcoholic as it is today. The fermentation process was revolutionary. It provided something besides water to drink. There was no refrigeration to keep things cool and fresh.

anyway… thats been said already. research it yourself to see.

take care- and God Bless you. Until pot is legal and is traded openly and does not support illegal drug trafficking, I will not be wishy washy with you, for the Lord would hold it against me.
In His Love,
MaryRev12
Psalm 139

Material, you are preaching to the choir … I wasn’t born yesterday either. I apologize if you feel offended or threatened by my use of the alcohol comparison … you’re right that this is not a "what if "… but one thing I strongly have a problem with is a hypocrite … a person who is not genuine and not real … they hold double standards … and put everything into their neat little boxes … whereas analogy of alcohol to marijuana I think is a VERY legitimate discussion that will require an honest person to actually think and examine their double standard … and examine the purpose of this thread … is the use of marijuana moral? I am NOT going to put marijuana in a vacuum all by itself and ignore real life … such as the use of alcohol … and how does that differ from the use of marijuana … I will challenge you about your idea(s) on the use of alcohol and its morality … as one of the doors to examine the morality of marijuana … .so please put on your thinking cap … and lets leave the platitudes behind so this can be a real honest discussion … every Good thing can be misused and abused … just as every Good thing can also be used in the way God intended … Good can stand on its own … Evil cannot stand on its own … Evil depends on Goodness … in fact is Goodness that is misused … so yes, you can probably write books and books and libraries full of how Marijuana can be used in destructive ways … just as your could probably write volumes on how a Hammer can be used in harmful ways … but I know and have even read in this thread some of the ways that Marijuana has actually benefited a few … in very postive GOOD ways …

When I hear people say that historically the wine Jesus made was not real wine … I can only say one thing to that … that is a pile of “$^&_%^”.

 

[LegoGE1947]

Material, you are preaching to the choir … I wasn’t born yesterday either. I apologize if you feel offended or threatened by my use of the alcohol comparison … you’re right that this is not a "what if "… but one thing I strongly have a problem with is a hypocrite … a person who is not genuine and not real … they hold double standards … and put everything into their neat little boxes … whereas analogy of alcohol to marijuana I think is a VERY legitimate discussion that will require an honest person to actually think and examine their double standard … and examine the purpose of this thread … is the use of marijuana moral? I am NOT going to put marijuana in a vacuum all by itself and ignore real life … such as the use of alcohol … and how does that differ from the use of marijuana … I will challenge you about your idea(s) on the use of alcohol and its morality … as one of the doors to examine the morality of marijuana … .so please put on your thinking cap … and lets leave the platitudes behind so this can be a real honest discussion … every Good thing can be misused and abused … just as every Good thing can also be used in the way God intended … Good can stand on its own … Evil cannot stand on its own … Evil depends on Goodness … in fact is Goodness that is misused … so yes, you can probably write books and books and libraries full of how Marijuana can be used in destructive ways … just as your could probably write volumes on how a Hammer can be used in harmful ways … but I know and have even read in this thread some of the ways that Marijuana has actually benefited a few … in very postive GOOD ways …

When I hear people say that historically the wine Jesus made was not real wine … I can only say one thing to that … that is a pile of “$^&_%^”.

The horrors that are being committed in Mexico in the name of marijuana and other drugs. The lives that are being lost in the drug wars there even of innocent bystanders. And while I am a non-drinker I have to agree with the post above which states that until marijuana is traded freely and openly and without fear of criminals coming around to blow you away for not paying you “bill” There is no comparison between alcoholic beverages and Mary Jane!

 

[SCollegeKid]

well, you wrote

Finally, to all the above posters claiming that mj use out-right is a sin, please realize you have your own OPINION and interpretations, as do others. No need to judge. If you believe differently, then pray that the truth come forth.

I was clarifying that we are discussing whether or not its sinful… invaribly you are going to see 2 sides to this issue- the very topic invites it. but I’ve seen throughout the thread that folks who thinks its sinful get called out as judging.

I wasn’t refering to you per say, but you and I both know what being judgemental is, so I won’t waste time with elaboration. Certainly, I have seen harsh criticisms with no factual evidence or decent arguement within this thread, this is what I refer to. Anything not objective or constructive. On second thought, I guess I did eleborate.

 

[jkiernan56]

The horrors that are being committed in Mexico in the name of marijuana and other drugs. The lives that are being lost in the drug wars there even of innocent bystanders. And while I am a non-drinker I have to agree with the post above which states that until marijuana is traded freely and openly and without fear of criminals coming around to blow you away for not paying you “bill” There is no comparison between alcoholic beverages and Mary Jane!

Yes, in the real world there is evil … and people do use what is good to commit evil … but what is used to commit evil does not make what is used … evil … I don’t have my head in the sand … I could give you a hundred examples of things that are good and how people have used good in evil ways … sexuality is good … but because of the human condition … is exploited … the beauty and holiness of this gift when according to God’s will … is so tragically trashed … and made so ugly … goodness gone bad … I could go on and on … should we make a law and hand out chasity belts to everyone?

 

[SCollegeKid]

Sorry sarcasm comes easy to me specially on issues like this. Also when I know personally so many Viet Nam vets whose minds are fried due to involvement in drugs and such when they were in the war, I have a real problem agreeing with anyone who says “What’s the harm in doing drugs like MJ?”

Your viewpoint is acceptable, we all have differing experiences and past situations in life that help shape our opinions and beliefs.

Myself, I’ll make a decent point through example as to what do you consider a drug? Off point maybe, but valid none-the-less. For instance, drugs are called dope because they effect dopamine levels. Some directly increase dopamine, some decrease, some only effect production through moods stemming from the substance of choice. Well, did you know that when a commercial is being marketed, that dopamine is released when we see something we want. This is natural, but the ads and marketing infact cause this. Does this make commercials a drug as it also effects dopamine?

A stretch I knowm but the point being, the term drug has an especially negative connotation. Yes marijuana is powerful, but relatively harmless and completely harmless when used certain ways. Kids reading, I do not advocate use. Age minimum of 21 years should be manditory if regulated by the gov’t. Maturity and moderation are the issue, more-so than the drug itself.

So to finally get down to my point, it’s not “What’s the harm in doing drugs like MJ?”. It’s more like, "let’s not compare marijuana inadequetly. Lets compare it objectively with REAL facts, not false propoganda, and lets get down to the real issue to help us better decide a proper solution. I’m more of a scientist than an advocate.

 

[SCollegeKid]

Well so do I. The Bible says that Jesus said to His disciples, “those who hear you, hear me.” His apostles were the first bishops of His Church ( thats biblical)…the Church that the gates of hell will prevail against? “Low, I am with you always,even to the end of time” The Church is discussed in detail throughout the Bible. Truth is, the word " bible" is no where in the bible. It only came about because the Church put it together and gave it to us. Its very sacredness was proclaimed by the Bishops around 400 ad. They were guided by the Holy Spirit. Nothing God creates will crumble- His Church is still here and strong, guided by the Holy Spirit. The gates of hell will not prevail- Jesus is the head of the Church. The Bishops are His ambassadors. The Bible can not lead you into all truth- what about cloning? genetic engineering? How can the Bible solely teach us?How do we personally interpret its mysteries? Since the reformation and the doctrine of sola scriptura 10’s of thousands of opposing teachings have arisen- all claiming that theirs is the real truth. It is a sacred book- and I love it… but it can not stand up and speak about things - it is not alive- the Church gave us the Bible as a teaching tool- not the only rule.

The Bible teaches us to put away the distractions and to fight the fight… to run the race to win. MJ is not healthy…and our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit.

anyway, I thank the Lord for leading me out of it and other drug use… which, btw, I probably wouldn’t have tried other drugs had I not tried pot. It really is a gateway drug.

take care, and God Bless

Thanks for the reply, I have to go to class now, but will return with my two cents.

 

[LegoGE1947]

Your viewpoint is acceptable, we all have differing experiences and past situations in life that help shape our opinions and beliefs.

Myself, I’ll make a decent point through example as to what do you consider a drug? Off point maybe, but valid none-the-less. For instance, drugs are called dope because they effect dopamine levels. Some directly increase dopamine, some decrease, some only effect production through moods stemming from the substance of choice. Well, did you know that when a commercial is being marketed, that dopamine is released when we see something we want. This is natural, but the ads and marketing infact cause this. Does this make commercials a drug as it also effects dopamine?

A stretch I knowm but the point being, the term drug has an especially negative connotation. Yes marijuana is powerful, but relatively harmless and completely harmless when used certain ways. Kids reading, I do not advocate use. Age minimum of 21 years should be manditory if regulated by the gov’t. Maturity and moderation are the issue, more-so than the drug itself.

So to finally get down to my point, it’s not “What’s the harm in doing drugs like MJ?”. It’s more like, "let’s not compare marijuana inadequetly. Lets compare it objectively with REAL facts, not false propoganda, and lets get down to the real issue to help us better decide a proper solution. I’m more of a scientist than an advocate.

I come from a time in history and a place where marijuana and things like it were unheard of. Even though my folks were not religious they were against even regular cigrettes let alone mj.
I have never smoked, never drank more than a couple times in my life ( that’s not to say I’m a goody two shoes I have a stomach problem that is aggravated by alcohol so I can’t drink, even to take the Eucharist) Like Will Rogers “I only know what I read in the papers!” So I’m very interested what this whole line of postings has to say both pro and con. I think the arguments both for and against provide food for thought. It’s very hard in this world to see anything objectively with seemingly everyone having an opinion on any subject one could name! Isn’t that something we all could agree on?

 

[rinnie]

I come from a time in history and a place where marijuana and things like it were unheard of. Even though my folks were not religious they were against even regular cigrettes let alone mj.
I have never smoked, never drank more than a couple times in my life ( that’s not to say I’m a goody two shoes I have a stomach problem that is aggravated by alcohol so I can’t drink, even to take the Eucharist) Like Will Rogers “I only know what I read in the papers!” So I’m very interested what this whole line of postings has to say both pro and con. I think the arguments both for and against provide food for thought. It’s very hard in this world to see anything objectively with seemingly everyone having an opinion on any subject one could name! Isn’t that something we all could agree on?

I think that the question was rather it is a sin or not. I think that is what the problem is. Its not rather you or I think its good for your or not or our opinions on it. It is what does the Church say is it a sin. THe answer was yes. And I think alot of people have a problem with that answer.

 

[jkiernan56]

I think that the question was rather it is a sin or not. I think that is what the problem is. Its not rather you or I think its good for your or not or our opinions on it. It is what does the Church say is it a sin. THe answer was yes. And I think alot of people have a problem with that answer.

No, what I have a problem with is what people “THINK” and interpret what the Church teaches. Remember that the Scribes and Pharisees also had it all figured out according to their interpretation of The Law … and Christ came into their world and upset their understanding … Christ IS THE LAW … and here was THE LAW standing right in front of the religious leaders … and what did they do … some people just don’t like to have their ideas challenged …

 

[LegoGE1947]

I think that the question was rather it is a sin or not. I think that is what the problem is. Its not rather you or I think its good for your or not or our opinions on it. It is what does the Church say is it a sin. THe answer was yes. And I think alot of people have a problem with that answer.

I keep having a problem with remembering that the church, not people’s opinions, is the final authority. And yes I can see that a lot oof people have a problem with that. “Sin” is not the most popular word in the English language In fact we don’t hear it much.
We hear a lot about Mistakes, or Errors, or Foibles, or Shortcomings, but that little three letter word SIN? god FORBID that we should use THAT word! You notice that I did put a small “g” on the word god! Referring of course to the “god” of this world who in the beginning of time said to God “I WILL NOT SERVE” and went his own way and has an amazing ability to pass his “I will not serve” philosophy on to those of us who are the Almighty’s creation, and make it look real attractive!:sad_yes: