So, here is a question I have for consideration.
Generally, I understand that all tobacco use is frowned upon by most believers. Yet, there seems to be a historical acceptance for some uses over others, and I am curious to see what others here have to say on the subject.
So, clearly, cigarettes, we reject because they are, in general, harmful to the health, with all the garbage and poisons that are added to tobacco in cigarettes, with exception, perhaps, of the "native American" brands, which tend to be pure tobacco, which itself is pretty much harmless. Also, however, cigarettes are seen as having a bad influence, poor associations-they carry a reputation of rebellion, and therefore we reject them.
Cigars are pure-leaf tobacco, usually no fillers or chemicals added, and are generally not considered harmful to the health. They can carry questionable associations, anything from the 'tough guy' image, (Clint Eastwood/Wolverine, etc) or the very wealthy socialite image. Neither necessarily a negative image. But definitely an association. And of course, we all know Spurgeon was a cigar smoker, which he did to help with pain.
Pipes usually use pure leaf tobaccos, sometimes with added flavors, but no chemicals, and are not considered harmful-these and cigars are not generally inhaled, therefore do no damage to the lungs. Pipe have an association of being used by 'smart' people, Sherlock Holmes, deep readers, professors, or, looking back a few years, the image of 'Dad' coming home from a long day at work, sitting with his pipe to read the newspaper.
So, all this being said, we generally look at things not mentioned in scripture specifically from the perspective of associations, of potential harmfulness, of causing a brother potential to stumble, of generally being harmful to the cause of Christ. It takes discernment on the part of believers to choose what is lawful and acceptable, and what is lawful, but not expedient. I am curious, how do we here look at this issue, in its various forms and usages. Give me your thoughts.
