What is the Bible's stance on steroid use?

Definition and Context

Steroids, in modern medical and athletic contexts, often refer to synthetic substances designed to mimic the effects of naturally occurring hormones—particularly testosterone. They are used to enhance muscle mass, strength, and sometimes endurance or recovery. While the Bible does not explicitly mention the use of anabolic steroids (as they are a product of modern science), its overarching principles on bodily care, moral conduct, and reliance on God provide guiding wisdom.

Biblical Principles of Bodily Stewardship

Scripture underscores the importance of treating our bodies with care and respect as part of our worship. As it is written,

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you…? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20)

1. Our bodies belong to God and are meant to honor Him (Romans 12:1 speaks of presenting our bodies as living sacrifices).

2. Proper care includes healthy nutrition, rest, and exercise but also avoiding harm or dishonor to the body.

Anabolic steroid use can pose serious physical and psychological risks, which conflict with the principle of stewarding the body in a manner that preserves health and glorifies God.

Ethics and Integrity in Scripture

The Bible places a high value on honesty, integrity, and truthfulness (Proverbs 12:22; Ephesians 4:25). In competitive sports or personal pursuits, the use of performance-enhancing drugs often raises questions of dishonesty or an unfair advantage. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians uses an athletic metaphor:

“Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline.” (1 Corinthians 9:25)

This verse encourages believers to demonstrate discipline, honesty, and perseverance without resorting to deceitful means. If steroids are employed to gain an unfair edge, it may violate biblical values of fair competition and truthfulness.

Addictive Behaviors and Warnings in Scripture

The Bible repeatedly cautions believers against any practice that enslaves or controls them (Galatians 5:1; 1 Corinthians 6:12). A potential concern with steroid use is becoming dependent on substances for physical or psychological reasons:

• The desire for constant physical growth may lead to a cycle of dependence, overshadowing reliance on God’s provision.

• Prolonged use can have addictive qualities tied to a distorted self-image, pride, or fear of perceived weakness.

Scripture warns that surrendering mastery of our lives to anything other than God undermines our spiritual freedom and can hinder our walk with Him (Romans 6:16).

Modifying the Body for Vanity

Concern over body image, the pursuit of vanity, or the exaltation of physical appearance beyond God’s design can conflict with biblical teaching:

“People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

While maintaining physical fitness is commendable (1 Timothy 4:8 recognizes that physical training has some value), an excessive focus on appearance or strength for self-glorification can distract from one’s ultimate purpose—to glorify God. If steroid use is fueled by pride or the need for societal approval, it detracts from the Christ-centered humility and contentment taught throughout Scripture (Philippians 4:11–13).

Medical Use versus Enhancement

Biblical teaching does not forbid the proper use of medicine. For instance, Paul advised Timothy concerning a medicinal use for stomach ailments (1 Timothy 5:23). When steroids are prescribed by a medical professional for legitimate health conditions (e.g., to treat inflammation or hormone deficiencies), they can be considered part of caring for the body responsibly.

However, using steroids primarily to enhance muscle mass or athletic performance falls outside the scope of essential medical treatment. This often leads to moral, physical, and spiritual complications. The intention behind steroid use matters: is it grounded in stewardship and legitimate health concerns, or in vanity, insecurity, or unfair competition?

Encouragement to Seek Righteous Motives

The Bible consistently urges believers to examine their motives:

“Test everything. Hold fast to what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21–22)

• Individuals should consider prayerful discernment regarding anything that influences them physically or spiritually.

• Wise counsel from trusted spiritual leaders and medical professionals can help in evaluating whether an action glorifies God and aligns with biblical ethics.

Conclusion

While Scripture does not provide an explicit prohibition against “steroid use” by name, the principles of bodily stewardship, integrity, avoidance of addictive behaviors, and God-focused motives guide believers to exercise discernment. Steroid usage aimed at performance enhancement, vanity, or dishonesty conflicts with biblical teachings on glorifying God with our bodies, honoring truth, and relying on Him rather than artificial means for identity and strength.

Believers are called to live in such a way that every aspect of life, including how they care for their bodies, reflects their devotion to God and obedience to His Word:

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)

In this sense, the Bible’s stance encourages seeking what is good, honorable, and in line with God’s design for the human body, reminding believers to rely ultimately on His strength and guidance.