Exploring the Issues from a Biblical Perspective: Issue 2 and Recreational Marijuana

Sunday School 10/29/23

Check out this informative interview by Sean McDowell of Todd Miles (author of the book “Christians and Cannabis”) 

Watch a recent debate by an Ohio tv station with supporters and critics of Issue 2

John Piper addresses the question of Christians and marijuana on his podcast

Issue 2:  If passed, this issue would legalize and regulate recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and above, including cultivation, processing, sale, purchase, possession, and home growth.  The revenue generated from this tax would be directed toward establishing a cannabis social equity and jobs program. (For the full language see ballotpedia)

• If passed, Ohio would become the 24^th state to legalize the recreational use of marijuana

Biblical principles (Marijuana isn’t directly mentioned in Scripture, but there are principles we can apply as we seek wisdom on this issue)

1. Not every “lawful” thing is beneficial, especially if it becomes a controlling influence in our lives (1 Cor. 6:12-13)
2. Christians are warned about the folly of intoxication.   (Eph. 5:18: Prov. 23:29-35)
3. We are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds, not the numbing of our mind (Rom. 12:1-2)

Dangers of Marijuana (our culture tries to ignore the data, but research and medical studies reveal significant risk)

Brain health: Marijuana can cause permanent IQ loss of as much as 8 points when people start using it at a young age. These IQ points do not come back, even after quitting marijuana.

Mental health: Studies link marijuana use to depression, anxiety, suicide planning, and psychotic episodes.

Athletic Performance: Research shows that marijuana affects timing, movement, and coordination, which can harm athletic performance.

Driving: It is dangerous to drive under the influence of marijuana as it can lead to: slower reactions, lane weaving, decreased coordination, and difficulty reacting to signals and sounds on the road.

Baby’s health and development: Marijuana use during pregnancy may cause fetal growth restriction, premature birth, stillbirth, and problems with brain development

Daily life: Research shows that people who use marijuana are more likely to have relationship problems, worse educational outcomes, lower career achievement, and reduced life satisfaction.

Addiction: Contrary to popular belief, marijuana is addictive. Research shows that:

• 1-in-6 people who start using the drug before the age of 18 can become addicted.
• 1-in-10 adults who use the drug can become addicted.

For more information

https://www.gotquestions.org/recreational-marijuana.html

https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/marijuana-to-the-glory-of-god

https://www.liberty.edu/champion/2022/03/pros-and-cons-weed-should-be-illegal/