earthly and temporal concern. Some unworthy objects of the Christian’s interest are clearly sinful. Various evil practices, such as those named in verses 5–9, should always be avoided. There are other earthly things, however, that are not in themselves sinful, but that can be dangerous and detrimental if they capture the attention of the Christian and divert him from pursuing spiritual goals of far greater value. This is especially true in the case of ascetic practices and other forms of legalism.