The lingering smoke
Mahtani examines the Reformed cultural acceptance of smoking as a liberty issue, arguing that while tobacco use itself is morally neutral, addiction to it constitutes a violation of the first commandment by placing a substance above God. The article challenges Reformed readers to reflect critically on their practices and priorities in light of biblical obedience.
Like that lingering smoke at the back door of church, a smelly stigma sticks to the Reformed, young and old alike. What are our well known indulgences? Drinking (see my previous article -- March 1, 2020, p. 259) and smoking. What has generally become a socially unacceptable activity in the world seems to remain a norm in Reformed circles -- a liberty to insist upon, along with orthodoxy. Therefore, though admittedly with some hesitation, I seek to unveil this altar of strange incense that few...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org