Ok, I’m not actually asking your permission; I’m giving you the the interest-grabbing title of a book by Tom Breedon and Mark L. Ward, Jr.
With election day approaching, I read this short Biblical consideration of the marijuana issue to help me approach Ohio’s ballot Issue 2 from a Biblical perspective. While the book doesn’t directly address the issue of legalization of recreational use of the drug, it’s principles did help me solidify my position and answer some questions that have recently been brought up in conversations I’ve had.
The authors begin with why and how we can turn to the Scripture for an answer to this question. Then they lay a foundation based in God’s good creation and man’s mandate in it, as well as the Biblical role of government. After setting up these basic principles, the text digs into the issues of marijuana for medicinal and recreational use in light of God’s Word.
Although written several years ago, the Biblical principles are timeless. And since the authors make a point of keeping their focus very narrow, they refrain from citing empirical studies which can become outdated. In fact, all of the text, while presented with logical order and reasoning, is personable and very readable for teens and adults.
The publisher’s note explains the book’s rationale well: “we publish short, clear, useful… books. Books that make sense and are easy to read, even as they tackle serious subjects. We do this because the good news of Jesus Christ …is the only thing that actually explains why this world is so wonderful and so awful all at the same time. Even better, the gospel applies to every single area of life, and offers real answers that aren’t available from any other source.”
Copies of Can I Smoke Pot? Marijuana in Light of Scripture are available to Christ Covenant members for $5. See Tina Miller to purchase.
