Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age. -Titus 2:12 NKJV
1. Does the Bible speak directly against it?
2. Do biblical principles teach against it?
3. Will it give the devil a foothold in my life?
4. Will it lead me or others into sin?
5. Will it diminish my Christian life?
6. Does it support that which is evil?
7. Is it awkward to thank God for it?
8. Are there reasonable doubts about it?
9. Is it reasonable to stay away from it?
10. Will it help or hurt my Christian witness?
Examples: Drinking alcohol, marijuana, smoking, dancing / some forms of dancing, night clubs, questionable places or parties, gambling, cards, dice, immodest dress, some kinds of music, pornography, crude language and joking…
No, not all Christians will agree. But that is no reason to not take these principles seriously. Christian liberty should not be abused to justify everything.
See
11 Reasons to Not Drink Alcohol. It
deals with some of these general principles.
http://gulfcoastpastor.blogspot.com/2017/04/11-reasons-to-not-drink-alcohol.html
But, you can certainly laugh, joke, and have a good time. As a matter of fact, you can have more fun when you avoid the things that tear you down. Discipline in the Christian life can bring great joy and freedom.
Scripture
to consider:
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. -1 John 2:15
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. -Romans 12:2
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age. -Titus 2:12
For Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed for Thessalonica. -2 Timothy 4:10
But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak. -1 Corinthians 8:9
As free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. -1 Peter 2:16
Worldly – a practice that
directly or indirectly contradicts God’s Word.
That which can lead me or others astray.
A practice that fits into the culture of this present unredeemed world,
but does not fit well in the culture of the Kingdom of God.
-David R. Brumbelow, gulfcoastpastor.blogspot.com, November 3, AD 2022.
Articles:
Discipline - A Trip to the Drive-In Store
10 Reasons to Avoid Pornography
13 Reasons Why Not to Commit Suicide
Wine for Your Stomach's Sake; 1 Timothy 5:23
Other
Articles in lower right margin, Web Version.
