Laws that define behavioral, moral parameters in a nation, region, or local community are not an option but are absolutely essential. These parameters must be established for the best interests of individuals and the group as a whole. The United States is a constitutional republic, and the rule of law derives its authority from the people. If laws are established to wield political clout, such totalitarianism enslaves people. By contrast, libertarianism also chains people with the bondage of no rules. Both extremes regarding the rule of law have a fatal error due to a false foundation. In the United States, the basis for enacting the various laws has traditionally been the Bible, the Word of God. National, state, and local entities have legislated and continue to enact laws affecting morality and behavior. For over 225 years, the USA has been singularly blessed by God.
Whether or not morality should be legislated is not debatable. The only question is regarding which moral issues will be addressed. All levels of government, national state, county, and municipal always are involved in legislating morality. Behavioral issues for either prohibition or regulation include the sale and consumption of alcohol, penalties for driving under the influence, gambling, prostitution, pornography, advertizing of tobacco products, and the legalization of marijuana for medicinal use and recreational use.
The legalization of marijuana is increasingly in the news. It is an issue that has been and continues to be addressed with significant misinformation. Christ-followers must confront the issue from the perspective of Biblical truth. It is likely that the issue of legalization of marijuana will continue to be a referendum for multiple states during the next few years, perhaps as early as the November elections in 2014. Two states, Washington and Colorado, recently voted to legalize recreational pot and the logistics of the sale and use of the drug are now being enacted. Baptist Press cites an interview with the New Yorker magazine in which Prsident Obama states his viewpoint regarding marijuana use. “I view it as a bad habit and a vice, not very different from the cigarettes that I smoked as a young person up through a big chunk of my adult life. I don't think it is more dangerous than alcohol." Apparently, a majority of the voters in the two states that have legalized the drug hold that viewpoint.
It is likely that some people in our community also believe this to be true, but the facts do not substantiate assertions of the harmlessness of marijuana. Although unlikely as a referendum in the near future, it is highly possible that voters in Texas will deal with the issue of whether or not to legalize the recreational use of marijuana at some time in the future. The principle that must guide all Christ-followers regarding this moral issue and any other moral/social issues is that Christ-followers must vote by the truth of God’s Word. The Holy Spirit inspired letter of the Apostle Paul to 1st century Corinth offers insight to 21st century Christians on how to live as responsible citizens . All persons in our country have the responsibility and the freedom to speak and vote your personal convictions.“… whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Do not cause anyone to stumble” 1 Corinthians 10:31-32 In political/moral concerns and in your own personal habits, the goal of the Christ-follower must be to glorify God at all times. Be aware of the issues, and speak truth in love!
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