Steroids: Sinful Or Not?

The use of steroids is a highly debated topic, with some arguing that it is a sin, while others claim it is not. From a religious perspective, the Bible does not specifically mention steroids, but it does provide guidelines that suggest their use for non-medical purposes could be considered a sin. For example, the Bible instructs Christians to obey government laws (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17), and in many places, anabolic steroids are illegal without a valid prescription. Additionally, the Bible teaches that we should honour God with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and using steroids for rapid muscle development or athletic performance could be seen as a risk to physical health and an act of vanity or pride. However, when steroids are prescribed by a medical professional for legitimate therapeutic purposes, their use is comparable to any other prescription drug, and thus may not be considered a sin.

Steroids are only a sin if taken for an immoral or illegal purpose

The Bible does not specifically mention steroids, but it does refer to illegal activities as sinful. Steroids are only illegal if they are not prescribed and monitored by a doctor. Therefore, taking steroids for a legitimate therapeutic purpose is not a sin. However, if steroids are taken for an immoral or illegal purpose, such as cheating in sports, it could be considered a grave matter and a sin.

The Bible also speaks about doing things with bad intentions, which can be considered a sin. For example, taking steroids to boost self-esteem or appear more attractive to others could be seen as a sin. Additionally, the Bible instructs us to "honour God with our bodies" (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), suggesting that putting one's health at risk for unnecessary reasons is not aligned with Christian values. Steroid use, especially abuse, carries significant health risks, including skin problems, high blood pressure, heightened heart attack risk, aggressive behaviour, breast tissue expansion in men, hair loss, and sperm production issues.

Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes obedience to the laws of the government (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17). As anabolic steroids without a valid prescription are illegal, Christians are advised to refrain from using them without medical supervision.

In summary, while the Bible does not explicitly mention steroids, several biblical principles can be applied to their use. Taking steroids for valid medical reasons under the guidance of a medical professional is not considered a sin. However, using steroids for immoral or illegal purposes, or to achieve vanity or prideful goals, could be seen as a sin according to Christian teachings.

The Bible instructs us to honour God with our bodies

The Bible does not specifically mention steroids, but it does provide guidelines that can help Christians decide whether or not to use them.

Firstly, the Bible instructs us to "honour God with our bodies" (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we should treat them as sacred. This means taking care of our physical and mental health, eating nourishing foods, exercising, and maintaining our bodies as pristine.

Secondly, the Bible speaks about illegal things being a sin (Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–17). Steroids are illegal if used without a valid prescription and for non-medical purposes. If someone is taking steroids for a legitimate therapeutic purpose, there is no sin. However, if they are being used for an immoral or illegal purpose, such as cheating in sports, it could be considered a sin.

Thirdly, the Bible warns against doing things with bad intentions (1 Corinthians 6:12-16). If someone is taking steroids to boost their self-esteem or to become more attractive to others, it could be considered a sin of vanity or pride.

Finally, the Bible tells us to obey the laws of the government. Using steroids without a valid prescription is illegal and, therefore, would go against this biblical principle.

In conclusion, while the Bible does not explicitly mention steroids, Christians can consider the above biblical principles when deciding whether or not to use them. The potential side effects and health risks associated with steroid use should also be carefully considered.

The Bible does not mention steroids but it does mention illegal things being a sin

The Bible does not specifically mention the use of steroids, however, it does provide guidelines that can be applied to the use of steroids.

Firstly, the Bible instructs Christians to obey the laws of the government (Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–17). Anabolic steroids, without a valid prescription, are illegal. Therefore, a Christian should not use steroids without a prescription as it would be considered a sin to disobey the law.

Secondly, the Bible teaches that Christians should "honour God with their bodies" (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). Steroid use, especially steroid abuse, poses significant health risks. While it may be acceptable to take steroids for valid medical reasons, putting one's health at risk for something unnecessary, such as rapid muscle development or increased athletic performance, is not honouring God with one's body.

Thirdly, the Bible speaks against vanity and pride (Psalm 119:37; 1 Samuel 16:7; Ecclesiastes 2:11). Excessive weightlifting or bodybuilding can be considered a form of vanity, as it involves a preoccupation with physical appearance and can lead to risking one's health.

Therefore, while the Bible does not directly address steroid use, it provides principles that suggest that taking steroids for non-medical purposes would be considered a sin.

Steroids are illegal without a valid prescription

Steroids are powerful drugs that can have a significant impact on the body, and as such, they are illegal without a valid prescription. Anabolic steroids are synthetic hormones that can boost the body's ability to make muscle and prevent muscle breakdown. They are often misused by athletes and regular people who want to enhance their athletic performance and physical appearance. However, it is important to note that these substances are controlled and regulated due to their potential for misuse and adverse health effects.

In the United States, anabolic steroids are classified as Schedule III substances under the Controlled Substances Act, which means they have a legitimate medical function but can lead to moderate to low physical dependence or high psychological dependence. As a result, it is illegal to use or distribute anabolic steroids without a valid prescription. This is an important distinction, as steroids can be safely used for legitimate therapeutic purposes under medical supervision.

The Bible also provides guidance on the issue of steroid use. While it does not specifically mention steroids, it does speak about obeying the laws of the government and honouring God with our bodies. Additionally, the Bible instructs us to avoid vanity and pride, which can be associated with the excessive focus on physical appearance that often accompanies steroid use. Therefore, from a Christian perspective, steroid use without a valid prescription would be considered sinful.

The health risks associated with steroid abuse are well-documented. Steroids can cause severe acne, high blood pressure, increased cholesterol levels, liver and kidney problems, and even irreversible damage to the heart and arteries. They can also lead to aggressive behaviour, mood swings, and other psychological issues. In addition, steroid use can have long-term effects on fertility, with men experiencing reduced sperm count and women facing problems with their menstrual cycles and long-term fertility issues.

In conclusion, steroids are illegal without a valid prescription due to their potential for misuse and adverse health effects. From a Christian perspective, steroid use without a valid prescription would be considered sinful, as it goes against biblical principles of obeying the law, honouring the body, and avoiding vanity and pride. The health risks associated with steroid abuse further reinforce the importance of using these substances only under proper medical supervision.

Steroids can cause severe acne and permanent scarring

Steroids can wreak havoc on your skin, causing severe acne and, in some cases, permanent scarring.

Steroids cause the oil glands to produce more fat and cholesterol, making your skin greasier. Simultaneously, they prompt your skin to increase bacteria production, leading to clogged pores and pimples. This type of acne typically occurs on the chest, face, neck, back, and arms.

While the acne itself will go away after you stop taking steroids, you could be left with long-term damage in the form of permanent scarring. Severe acne caused by steroids increases the risk of scarring, and the deeper the acne penetrates, the more likely it is to leave a permanent mark.

The severity of steroid-induced acne depends on the dosage and duration of steroid use, as well as individual susceptibility to acne. The formulation known as Sustanon, a mix of testosterone esters, and high-dose testosterone are particularly linked to acne development.

To treat steroid-induced acne, oral antibiotics from the tetracycline group, such as doxycycline, minocycline, and tetracycline, are often prescribed. These antibiotics target the acne-causing bacteria and help reduce inflammation. Topical treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, are also used to manage and reduce acne.

In summary, steroids can indeed cause severe acne and increase the risk of permanent scarring. The treatment for steroid-induced acne involves oral antibiotics, topical treatments, and, in some cases, antifungal medications if a fungal infection is present.

Frequently asked questions