We are called to be a godly people who
think, feel, and act in harmony with the principles of heaven. For the
Spirit to recreate in us the character of our Lord we involve ourselves
only in those things which will produce Christlike purity, health, and
joy in our lives. This means that our amusement and entertainment should
meet the highest standards of Christian taste and beauty. While recognizing
cultural differences, our dress is to be simple, modest, and neat, befitting
those whose true beauty does not consist of outward adornment but in the
imperishable ornament of a gentle and quiet spirit. It also means that
because our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit, we are to care for
them intelligently. Along with adequate exercise and rest, we are to adopt
the most healthful diet possible and abstain from the unclean foods identified
in the Scriptures. Since alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and the irresponsible
use of drugs and narcotics are harmful to our bodies, we are to abstain
from them as well. Instead, we are to engage in whatever brings our thoughts
and bodies into the discipline of Christ, who desires our wholesomeness,
joy, and goodness. (
Romans 12:1, 2;
1 John 2:6;
Ephesians 5:1-21;
Philippians 4:8;
2 Corinthians 10:5;
2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1;
1 Peter 3:1-4;
1 Corinthians 6:19, 20;
1 Corinthians 10:31;
Leviticus 11:1-47;
3 John 2.
)