22. Christian Behavior

We are called to be a godly people who think, feel, and act in harmony

with biblical principles in all aspects of personal and social life. For the

Spirit to recreate in us the character of our Lord we involve ourselves only

in those things that 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. (Gen 7:2; Exod 20:15; Lev 11:1-47;

Ps 106:3; Rom 12:1, 2; 1 Cor 6:19, 20; 10:31; 2 Cor 6:14-7:1; 10:5; Eph

5:1-21; Phil 2:4; 4:8; 1 Tim 2:9, 10; Titus 2:11, 12; 1 Peter 3:1-4; 1 John

2:6; 3 John 2.)