Jerry Bridges, in his contemporary classic book, The Pursuit of Holiness, writes about a time when a friend shared some words of wisdom, a “formula” that helps discern right from wrong:

“Years ago a friend gave me what he called his ‘Formula: How to Know Right from Wrong.’ The formula asks four questions based on three verses in 1 Corinthians.”

1. “Everything is permissible for me- but not everything is beneficial.” (1 Corinthians 6.12).

Question 1: Is it helpful – physically, spiritually, and mentally?

2. “Everything is permissible for me – but I will not be mastered by anything” (1 Corinthians 6.12).

Question 2: Does it bring me under its power?

3. “Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause him to fall.” (1 Corinthians 8.13)

Question 3: Does it hurt others?

4. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10.31)

Question 4: Does it glorify God?”