We
will practice temperance in behavior and will abstain from activities
and attitudes which are offensive to our fellowman or which lead
to addiction or enslavement.
Temperance
One of the cardinal Christian virtues is temperance or self-control
(1 Corinthians 9:25; Titus 1:8, 2:2). It is listed as fruit of
the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). We are admonished to practice moderation
and balance in our behavior (Philippians 4:5). The Scripture indicates
that it is within our prerogative to control our thinking (Philippians
4:8), our anger (Ephesians 4:26) and our communication (Ephesians
4:29; Colossians 3:8). To exercise self-discipline reflects the
power of God in our life (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Peter 1:5-11 ).
Offensive Behavior
The Bible speaks clearly that we are to be sensitive to the needs
and feelings of others as a demonstration of our love for them
(Matthew 22:39; Romans 12:9-21, 13:10; Philippians 2:3-5). At
times it is necessary for us to control our behavior so as not
to bring offense to others (Romans 14:13-21; 1 Corinthians 8:9-13).
As we know Christ after the Spirit, we are also to know others
in the same manner so we will not judge them after their outward
behavior alone (2 Corinthians 5:16). A respect and tolerance for
differences in others should characterize our relationships (Romans
14:2, 3; 1 Corinthians 8:8; Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:13; 1
Timothy 4:1-5).
Addiction and Enslavement
One of the primary benefits of our liberty in Christ is freedom
from the domination of negative forces (John 8:32, 36; Romans
6:14; 8:2). We are counseled not to put ourselves again under
bondage (Galatians 5:1). Therefore, a Christian must totally abstain
from all alcoholic beverages and other habit-forming and mood-altering
chemical substances and refrain from the use of tobacco in any
form, marijuana and all other addictive substances, and further,
must refrain from any activity (such as gambling or gluttony)
which defiles the body as the temple of God or which dominates
and enslaves the spirit that has been made free in Christ (Proverbs
20:1; 23:20-35; Isaiah 28:7; 1 Corinthians 3:17; 5:11; 6:10; 2
Corinthians 7:1; James 1:21).
