Weed

HOTM Radicalized: Weed and the Christian – A New Perspective on THC Use in the Faith

In this month’s episode of HOTM Radicalized, Shawn McCraney tackles a controversial topic within Christianity: THC use and faith. Addressing the topic with his signature directness, McCraney challenges the traditional religious opposition to cannabis and presents a balanced, faith-centered approach to its use. This teaching is not an endorsement of THC but an honest, experiential examination of its effects, risks, and potential place in a believer’s life.

Framing the Discussion: Seeking First the Kingdom

McCraney begins by grounding the discussion in Matthew 6:33: “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as well.” His central argument is that if a believer has genuinely sought the Kingdom of God first, their choices—including THC use—are a personal matter between them and God. He rejects religious dogma that categorically condemns cannabis and instead encourages self-examination: Does THC serve you, or do you serve it?

Through personal testimony, McCraney shares his methodical, year-long experiment with THC, testing its effects on his mind, productivity, emotions, and spiritual walk. He describes a controlled, twice-weekly use of THC edibles and how it has helped him process emotions and stress while also being mindful of potential drawbacks like increased appetite and temporary sluggishness. His approach, however, is rooted in discipline, ensuring that his use does not interfere with his devotion to God, his work, or his relationships.

Warnings and Personal Responsibility

While McCraney acknowledges some benefits, he does not shy away from issuing strong warnings about THC. He explicitly advises against its use for:

• Minors
• People with addictive tendencies
• Those using it as escapism
• Anyone for whom it causes irresponsibility in work, family, or faith

He makes it clear that for some individuals, THC is a destructive force, citing his own daughter’s struggles with addiction as a personal example of its dangers. However, he refuses to use anecdotal experiences as grounds for universal prohibition, insisting that faith is subjective, and believers must govern their own choices under God’s guidance.

Liberty in Christ vs. Religious Prohibition

McCraney critiques organized religion’s restrictive stance on THC, arguing that legalism stifles the personal responsibility and liberty that Christ won for believers. He points out that religious institutions historically condemn cannabis as “sorcery” while turning a blind eye to equally mind-altering substances like caffeine, sugar, processed foods, and even technology. Instead of relying on man-made prohibitions, McCraney urges believers to test all things, hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21), and live by faith and love.

Conclusion: Walking in Wisdom, Not Fear

McCraney closes by asserting that Christ has had the total victory—over sin, death, and even demonic forces—which means that believers now live in a new spiritual economy where personal choices are governed by the Spirit, not religious dogma. He reiterates that THC use should never replace one’s dependence on God, nor should it control one’s life. However, he firmly believes that responsible use, when guided by wisdom and self-control, is permissible for believers.

In closing, McCraney leaves the audience with an invitation to think critically and seek God personally in all decisions—including the use of THC. He teases next month’s discussion: A New Christian Cosmology, promising another deep dive into modern faith beyond traditional frameworks.