11. Can Marijuana Be Used Medicinally?
Can Marijuana Be Used Medicinally?
I doubt that we should oppose a regulated medical use of marijuana, controlled by appropriate physician oversight and prescriptions. Many drugs are sold by prescription which, if they were abused, would be even more destructive than marijuana.
JOHN PIPER
It’s no secret that many people are falsely prescribed marijuana, but is there a place for marijuana when one is truly sick? Certainly most Christians would agree that it is permissible to use certain narcotics for medicinal purposes. Studies have shown that marijuana has been useful for those struggling with cancer and may help those battling a disease to experience a relief of pain and an ability to cope with nausea and vomiting. It’s also been shown to help increase one’s appetite. But should this be enough for marijuana to be used legally? Let’s hold that thought for now.
Here’s what we do know. In the New Testament, there was an occasion where Timothy was under the weather and Paul’s practical antidote was, “No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments” (1 Timothy 5:23). Note the word little. Even in Scripture we see alcohol prescribed to soothe Timothy’s stomach issues and other ailments. With this in mind, Christians don’t need to be dogmatic about the use of legally prescribed drugs if the motive is to ease one’s angst. However, unless drugs are truly being used for medicinal purposes they should be avoided at all costs.
And herein lies the problem. Many people have abused marijuana in the name of medical help when in reality, the driving force was a desire to be high. On top of that, at least at this point, not all states allow for the use of medical marijuana. In fact, only 23 of the 50 states permit it.
If it was to be used I’d advise it to be taken in edible fashion versus inhaling, as it puts the lungs at risk. All things considered, one should think very carefully about this issue before signing off on it.
Thought to Ponder
Just because something may offer a little medical reprieve doesn’t mean it’s holistically healthy or worth the risk.
Memory Verse
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 (1 Corinthians 6:19).
Question to Consider
What are some other health and spiritually related issues that can surface as a result of using medical marijuana?
One-Minute Apologist Video
Bobby Conway, “Can Marijuana Be Used Medicinally?”