Issues: Drugs

Other Drugs and Christian Teaching

Most Christian churches believe that to abuse the body and the mind with drugs is wrong. However, as well as condemning drug abuse, churches would agree that many drug addicts and people with drug-related problems need care and help. Also, the question 'Why do some people in our society resort to drugs?' needs to be seriously considered.

Although there are no references to drugs (other than alcohol), the Bible gives important lifestyle guidelines. Christians believe that God asks us to live a life that is pleasing to him, 'You were taught with regard to your former way of life to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires.' (The Bible, Ephesians chapter 4 verse 22). Paul tells Christians to leave behind their old habits and ways and live a new life.

There are two general principles which help Christians decide whether they should use or agree with the use of drugs: Caring for ourselves and caring for others. Christians should ask two questions:

• How would a drug affect our bodies?
• Will it affect our relationship with God?

Christians are encouraged to be filled with the Holy Spirit (The Bible, Ephesians chapter 5 verse 18). If God is to be in control of the Christian's thoughts, is this consistent with using any drug which affects the mind? Drugs affect the mind in different ways - slowing it down, speeding it up or distorting it. It is important to be clear-minded and self-controlled(The Bible, 1 Peter chapter 4 verse 7).

Our bodies are described as the ' temple of the Holy Spirit'. (The Bible, 1 Corinthians chapter 3 verses 16-17). This means that the Christian needs to take care of their health, and avoid actions that can cause damage, such as substance abuse, binge drinking and smoking.

Christian teaching is also clear about the important role of personal example. We need to avoid actions which may cause others to 'stumble' or 'fall' even if we might be alright ourselves (The Bible, 1 Corinthians chapter 8 verse 13). Even though Christians believe they have been set free by Jesus (The Bible, 1 Corinthians chapter 10 verses 23 - 11.1) where Paul writes 'So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.' (The Bible, 1 Corinthians chapter 10 verse 31), he qualifies this by saying 'Do not cause anyone to stumble ... for I am not seeking my own good, but the good of many, so that they may be saved.' (The Bible, 1 Corinthians chapter 10 verse 32). As one Christian youth worker said, 'Young people no longer want to be told the truth, they want to be shown the truth. We must live lifestyles that back up our words and release the power of God through the very actions that we take.' Knowing the facts about drugs and the effects they can have should help a decision as to whether the use of these substances are compatible with a Christian lifestyle.

Christians in the Methodist Church have formulated a statement which summarises the Christian attitude to drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

'The Christian's faith teaches him to use all things, including his money, responsibly. He seeks to meet problems and stresses by following Christ's teaching of living by His power. To Christ he offers the undiminished vigour of his body and mind. He loves his neighbour and therefore examines the probable effect of his behaviour, his habits and his example upon his neighbour. He accepts his part in the responsibility of the Church in the way of education and rehabilitation.'