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Vaping is the inhalation of an aerosol into the lungs by means of a liquid-filled device such as an e-cigarette. The liquid to be heated and turned into vapor usually contains nicotine and a flavoring of some kind. Vaping has become increasingly common, especially among young adults. It is often seen as a less harmful alternative to smoking tobacco. However, as Christians, we are called to examine our actions through the lens of Scripture, seeking to align every aspect of our lives with God’s will. While the Bible does not explicitly mention vaping, it provides clear principles that guide believers into wise decisions.
One of the most significant biblical teachings related to vaping is that the believer’s body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, the apostle Paul writes, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” Our bodies belong to God. We are called to honor God by caring for and respecting the bodies He gave us. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, research into the health concerns of vaping are ongoing, but “emerging data suggests links to chronic lung disease and asthma. . . . You’re exposing yourself to all kinds of chemicals that we don’t yet understand and that are probably not safe” (Blaha, M. J., “5 Vaping Facts You Need to Know,” www.hopkinsmedicine.org, accessed 11/19/24). Deliberately engaging in activities that could harm our physical well-being is not good stewardship of the body God entrusted to us.
The Christian’s pursuit of holiness includes cultivating self-control, a fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:23. The fluid used in vaping almost always contains nicotine, a highly addictive chemical. The Bible warns against behaviors that can lead to addiction. In 1 Corinthians 6:12, Paul writes, “‘I have the right to do anything,’ you say—but not everything is beneficial. ‘I have the right to do anything’—but I will not be mastered by anything.” A critical issue is whether we allow ourselves to be “mastered” by anything. Are those who are addicted to nicotine in vaping pens or e-cigs being “mastered” by it? If so, then it is sin.
Finally, Christians are called to be a light to the world and to live in a way that points others to Christ. Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Everything a Christian does should be done “for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Can a person vape for the glory of God? If not, then it is sin.
Our actions, both public and private, have the potential to influence others. If vaping becomes associated with addictive or harmful behaviors, it can damage our witness to non-believers or cause fellow believers to stumble. In the matter of vaping, the believer should weigh the benefits and risks, consider the health warnings, bear in mind his or her personal testimony, and, above all, look to Christ. Then an informed, prayerful decision can be made. If a person is convicted that vaping is sinful, then it is time to put down the vape pen and, with God’s help, leave the habit behind. Non-vaping brothers and sisters in Christ should help bear the burden (Galatians 6:2), eschewing judgmentalism and striving for grace.
