Discussion

In Colonial Philadelphia, it was considered not only immoral but illegal to bathe more than monthly. Many community leaders of the time felt that exposure to nakedness (even one’s own) initiated immoral thoughts, and thereby, promoted promiscuity. Thankfully, we have moved beyond that particular more. Clearly, different people have differing standards for the determination of undesirability. The old adage, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” is equally true in reverse. Personal rights and the ability to make one’s own choices are good things, but they must be balanced with responsibility. This is especially true when our choices have the potential to impact others. 1 Corinthians 10:23, 24 (ESV) says, “All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful, but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.” The Apostle Paul was writing about meat in the previous passage but applying the concept of behavioral choices to edify others. This is equally true as we balance rights and responsibility.