Smoking is a contemporary issue, and the Bible doesn’t address it directly. However, we’ll examine the principles and wisdom found in Scripture that can guide our decisions regarding our health and habits.
What Does the Bible Say About Smoking?
In the Bible, there is no specific verse that addresses smoking directly since it was not a prevalent practice during biblical times. However, the Bible does offer principles that can help us think through the issue of smoking.
One principle that applies to smoking is the idea of stewardship. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, the apostle Paul reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and that we are to honor God with our bodies. Smoking can be harmful to our physical health, which can be seen as poor stewardship of the bodies that God has given us.
Additionally, the Bible teaches us to consider the well-being of others. In 1 Corinthians 8:9, Paul talks about not causing others to stumble. Smoking, especially in the presence of non-smokers or in public spaces, can negatively impact the health of others and be a stumbling block for them.
Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes the importance of self-control and leading a life that is not controlled by harmful habits. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul says, “I will not be mastered by anything.” Smoking has the potential to become an addiction, leading to a lack of self-control and mastery over our lives.
Ultimately, while the Bible does not explicitly mention smoking, it does provide overarching principles that encourage us to consider the impact of our habits on our bodies, our relationships with others, and our self-control. As Christians, it is important for us to prayerfully consider these principles and seek wisdom from God when making decisions about our habits, including smoking.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Feeding The Poor
Bible Verses About Smoking
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
This verse reminds us that our bodies are not our own; they have been purchased by God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Therefore, we should take care of our bodies and honor God with them. Smoking, as a harmful habit, goes against this principle because it damages our bodies and does not bring glory to God.
1 Corinthians 3:16-17
“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.”
As believers, our bodies are considered temples of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, it is essential to treat our bodies with respect and avoid any practices that harm our physical and spiritual well-being. Smoking falls into this category, as it damages our bodies and can lead to various health issues.
1 Corinthians 10:23
““All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.”
This verse teaches us that while we have freedom in Christ, not everything we can do is beneficial or constructive. Smoking, being harmful to our health, does not build us up physically or spiritually. Therefore, it is wise to avoid practices and behaviors that may hinder our growth and well-being.
Ephesians 5:18
“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”
Although this verse specifically addresses drunkenness, it carries a broader message about avoiding any substance or habit that can lead to an uncontrolled or unhealthy state. Smoking, similar to drunkenness, can impair our judgment, harm our bodies, and hinder the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Romans 12:1
“I appeal to you, therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”
This verse calls us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices to God. Smoking, as a habit that harms our bodies, does not align with this act of worship. Instead, we are encouraged to live in a way that honors God, taking care of our bodies and presenting them as instruments of righteousness.
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law.”
This passage speaks about the fruit of the Spirit, which should be evident in the lives of believers. Self-control is listed as one of these fruits. Smoking, being an addictive habit, can hinder our ability to exercise self-control. Therefore, as followers of Christ, we should strive to cultivate self-control and reject habits that do not align with the character of God.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
This verse encourages believers to be alert and vigilant, as our spiritual enemy, Satan, seeks to ensnare and devour us. Smoking, as an addictive habit, can create a vulnerability that the devil may exploit. To stand firm against his schemes, we should prioritize soberness and clarity of mind.
Matthew 15:11
“It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”
While this verse specifically addresses dietary restrictions in its immediate context, it conveys a broader message about the importance of what comes out of our hearts and mouths. Smoking, as a behavior that can harm our bodies and compromise our health, can also negatively influence our speech and behavior, impacting our witness as Christians.
1 Timothy 5:23
“No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.”
In this verse, the apostle Paul advises Timothy to use a small amount of wine for medicinal purposes. While this example specifically addresses wine, it is important to note that it is used in moderation and for specific purposes. Smoking, unlike the prescribed medicinal use of wine, does not offer any health benefits, making it an unwise choice for believers seeking to take care of their bodies.
1 Thessalonians 4:4-5
“That each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God.”
As believers, we are called to control our bodies in holiness and honor. This means avoiding behaviors that stem from lustful passions or worldly desires. Smoking, as a habit that often begins out of curiosity or peer pressure, does not align with the holy and honorable lifestyle that God calls us to live.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.”
Although this verse specifically mentions wine and strong drink, its underlying message extends to any addictive substance or behavior. Smoking, like alcohol, can lead to addiction and negatively impact our health. Therefore, wisdom calls us to avoid being led astray by any addictive habits that may harm us physically, mentally, or spiritually.
Philippians 4:5
“Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand.”
As believers, we are called to live with reasonableness and moderation, being mindful of our actions and how they reflect our faith. Smoking, as an excessive habit with known health risks, does not demonstrate reasonableness or moderation. Rather, it reflects a lack of consideration for our well-being and the impact on others.
Proverbs 23:29-35
“Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who tarry long over wine; those who go to try mixed wine. Do not look at wine when it is red when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. In the end, it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder. Your eyes will see strange things, and your heart utter perverse things. You will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, like one who lies on the top of a mast. ‘They struck me,’ you will say, ‘but I was not hurt; they beat me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake? I must have another drink.’”
Although this passage specifically addresses the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption, it conveys a broader message about the negative consequences of addictive behaviors. Smoking, like excessive drinking, can lead to physical and emotional distress, impair judgment, and foster dependency. As followers of Christ, we should avoid any habit that may lead us down a destructive path.
1 Corinthians 9:27
“But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.”
Here, the apostle Paul speaks about disciplining his body and exercising self-control to avoid disqualification. Smoking, as an addictive habit, can hinder our ability to exercise self-control and may compromise our witness as believers. Therefore, we should strive to discipline our bodies and cultivate healthy habits that honor God.
Mark 7:20-23
“And he said, ‘What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.’”
This passage highlights that what defiles a person is not what enters their bodies externally but what comes from within, stemming from the sinful nature of the heart. Smoking, while harmful to the body, does not defile a person spiritually. However, it is important to recognize that smoking can be a symptom of an addictive pattern or a lack of self-control, which can be addressed by relying on the transforming power of Christ.
James 4:17
“So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.”
Although this verse does not directly address smoking, it serves as a reminder that knowingly engaging in behaviors that harm our bodies can be considered sin. Smoking, as a habit with well-known health risks, can fall into the category of knowing the right thing to do but failing to do it. As followers of Christ, we should strive to make choices that align with God’s will for our lives, including taking care of our physical well-being.
Galatians 6:7-8
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.”
This passage emphasizes the principle of reaping what we sow. If we consistently engage in practices that satisfy the desires of our flesh, such as smoking, we can expect to experience negative consequences. However, when we prioritize sowing to the Spirit and pursuing righteousness, we can anticipate eternal life and the abundant blessings that flow from a life submitted to God.
1 Corinthians 16:19-20
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
This passage reiterates the truth that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, chosen and indwelled by God Himself. As such, it is our responsibility to honor God with our bodies, keeping them pure and free from harmful habits such as smoking. By doing so, we bring glory to Him and demonstrate our gratitude for the price He paid to redeem us.
Proverbs 18:21
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.”
While the immediate context of this verse speaks about the power of speech, its underlying principle can apply to any behavior that impacts our well-being. Smoking, as a habit that can lead to various health issues, carries the potential for negative consequences. As believers, we should evaluate our habits and strive to cultivate behaviors that foster life and health.
Colossians 2:8
“See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”
While this verse speaks more broadly about being cautious of false teachings and ideologies, it does highlight the importance of discernment in our choices and habits. Smoking, as a habit that is often influenced by societal pressures or personal motivations, can fall into the category of being led astray by human traditions rather than aligning with the teachings of Christ.
2 Corinthians 7:1
“Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.”
This passage encourages believers to cleanse ourselves from anything that defiles body and spirit, so that we may bring holiness to completion. Smoking, as a habit that harms the body, falls into this category of defilement. By striving to maintain physical and spiritual purity, we demonstrate reverence for God and a desire to honor Him in all aspects of our lives.
1 Corinthians 8:9
“But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.”
Although this verse specifically addresses food sacrificed to idols in its context, its underlying principle can be applied to any behavior that may negatively influence others. Smoking, as a habit that can be addictive and harmful, may serve as a stumbling block for fellow believers or those who are considering faith. Therefore, it is wise to consider the impact of our choices on others and avoid practices that may hinder their spiritual journey.