Definition: All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly important passage from 1 Corinthians 6:12. It’s a really powerful statement about our relationship with God and our own desires. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that we are free to do almost anything, but we shouldn't be allowed to control or be controlled by anything. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “All things are lawful unto me…” – This means we have the freedom and ability to make choices about our lives, our actions, and even our desires. We can do almost anything we want, according to our will. Think of it like having a huge range of options available to us. “…but all things are not expedient:” – This is where it gets deeper. "Expedient" means easy or convenient. This isn’t about being good or doing the right thing. It's about being practical and sensible. The verse suggests that some of our desires, even those we want to do, aren’t actually beneficial or helpful for us in the long run. “…all things are not brought under the power of any.” – This is the crucial part. It means that we shouldn't be allowed to dominate or control anything. We shouldn’t be allowed to wield excessive power over others, or over God Himself. Our desires should not lead us to become a source of suffering or harm for anyone. In essence, it's about submission and humility. It's a reminder that we are not in control of everything, and that true freedom comes from recognizing our limitations and submitting to the will of God. It’s a call to focus on serving others and living a life guided by love and righteousness rather than pursuing personal desires at the expense of those around us. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a reminder of the importance of humility and avoiding pride. It cautions against seeking power, wealth, or anything that could lead to harmful actions. Does this mean we shouldn't want things? Absolutely not! It’s about recognizing when our desires are leading us astray and choosing to prioritize God and others over ourselves. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse in more detail? Discuss its significance within a specific context (like Paul's letter)?