In Nature

In nature.

An indifferent thing in nature is that, which is left free, so as we are not simply commanded or forbidden to use it, but when we shall find it in Christian wisdom beneficial, or hurtful to us. Such is not the taking up of the gesture, behavior or speech of evil men: or the feigning of them in plays, because we are expressly forbidden to take up the outward fashion or shape of the lusts of ignorance (1 Peter 1:14), where the word [Suschematizomeno] which the Holy Ghost uses, signifies the very manner of feigning the outward shows which are used in plays. Such also is not that which Solomon speaks of, to cast firebrands, arrows, and deadly things, and say, Am I not in sport? (Proverbs 26:18-19). Such is not the dancing of men and women together, which thing neither agrees with the shamefastness of the one, nor with the gravity of the other. No, the very sight of it in a woman, is found to overwhelm men more than strong drink (Mark 6:22). And necessarily draws with it, that which Solomon gives to unchaste women: That her feet dwell not in the house (Proverbs 7:11).