1 Corinthians 10:23

23“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive.

23All things are permitted, but not all things are of benefit. All things are permitted, but not all things 10:23 Or edifybuild people up.

23All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify.

23All things are lawful [that is, morally legitimate, permissible], but not all things are beneficial or advantageous. All things are lawful, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life].

23“Everything is permissible,”10:23 Or “All things are lawful,” twice in this verse but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is edifying.

23You say, “I have the right to do anything.” But not everything is helpful. Again you say, “I have the right to do anything.” But not everything builds us up.