Why talk about something as superficial as dress, when attitude, heart and substance are what we should focus on? After all, we are not to judge just on appearance, right?
In the Church of God, we strive to focus on the "inner man" (Ephesians 3:16). We ask God to renew and regenerate us daily through His Spirit. God tells us that He looks on the heart, and not the outward appearance (1 Samuel 16:7). Yet, as we look at instructions in Scripture, we see that modest attire is a vital part of a Christian's walk. It is even a part of apostolic Christianity!
The Apostle Paul—the same apostle who taught the "big" issues like the need for works and faith, and circumcision being of the spirit— also explained and stressed certain Church traditions. Notice how he valued them: "Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you" (1 Corinthians 11:2). Also: "Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle" (2 Thessalonians 2:15).
Although traditions may not be listed in the Ten Commandments, they are right and decent standards derived from biblical principles. Modesty in dress was one of the traditions that the Apostle Paul taught. In the context of warning men not to be angry or faithless, Paul also reminded Timothy to teach this principle to ladies in the first-century Church of God.
"I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel [also translated "proper, " "respectable" or "decent"], with propriety and moderation…" (1 Timothy 2:8–10). The word Translated "modes t" in 1 Timothy 2:8–10 is the Greek word kosmios. It comes from the root word kosmos, which is also translated "world," relating to the orderly arrangement of the whole universe. God has not just thrown the world together haphazardly— He has created it in an attractive form, and has decorated it to make it beautiful! That should give us a sense of what God meant when He inspired Paul to use the word translated as "modest."
God looks on the heart. But outward expressions—our words and actions, for example— reveal things about us on the inside. Jesus said that "out of the abundance of the heart [the] mouth speaks" (Luke 6:45). In the same way, our attire makes a statement about the inner man or woman. Appropriate dress is not righteousness in itself—but it can be a reflection of character. Several years ago in the Living Church News, Dr. Douglas Winnail wrote: "God does not alter biblical standards because society decides to change. What we wear… is important to God—because it reflects what is in our heart…" ("Dress for Services," March-April 2003). Remember, Jesus revealed: "And to her [the Bride, Christ's wife] it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints" (Revelation 19:8). The fine linen was a reflection of godly character. By contrast, the woman of Proverbs 7:10 wears "the attire of the harlot." Clothing is significant—it presents clues about a person's identity. Certain roles are signified by specific attire, as in the case of judges (Judges 5:10), priests (Exodus 40:12–13) and brides (Jeremiah 2:32).
Our attire is not only a reflection of character—it can influence character as well. In recent years, some school districts in the United States have reinstituted school uniforms for this very reason. Educators have observed a clear relationship between attire, attitudes and actions. California's Long Beach Unified School District reinstituted school uniforms in 1994. The results were better overall behavior and scholastic achievement—effects that were "immediately noticeable," according to a school district spokesman. ("Custom-made fit for school: Dress codes, student uniforms back in style," www.cnn.com, August 15, 2006). While some see clothing as only "the cover of the book," it is far more than that. It can reflect and influence character in a person, for good or for bad.
But who decides what is appropriate and what is not? Does "apostolic Christianity" require that women today wear the styles of Paul's day? Of course not! It is the principle that counts, especially since we find ourselves in an end-time world of decadence and hedonism. Paul wrote to Timothy: "But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves… unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control… lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God…" (2 Timothy 3:1–4). Paul prophesied of an alarming time— like that of ancient Sodom—when up would be down and down would be up, morally! How does one function in a society that has over-sexualized dress—and is shameless about having done so? This is a challenge and responsibility for Christians today.
What Are Clothes For?
What is the purpose of clothing? Is it to cover the body and convey good taste and discretion? Or is it to strategically show skin and to stimulate desire—even inappropriate desire? What do clothing designers and marketers believe? Author Jeff Pollard notes: The fashion industry does not believe that the principal purpose of clothing is to cover the body; it believes that the principal purpose of clothing is sexual attraction…" (Christian Modesty and the Public Undressing of America, pp. 52–53).
Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong taught the Church to "recapture true values." Our Presiding Evangelist, Mr. Roderick C. Meredith, has also admonished us to maintain high, godly standards. In a sermon late last year, "What Would Jesus Really Do?" he said: "We ought to have high standards… in the way we act, in the way we dress, in the way we talk, in the way we conduct ourselves, the way we think… How would Jesus dress? How would Jesus' sister dress?... Would Jesus' sister be showing off her body in some semi-vulgar way? No, she would not!" (October 28, 2006).
When Adam and Eve sinned, they became acutely aware of their own nakedness. They first attempted to solve that problem by using fig leaves! But God showed His kindness and love by fashioning "coats" or "tunics" for them from the skin of an animal. The word translated "coats" is the Hebrew kuttoneth, which comes from a root word meaning "to cover." This act was also symbolic of Christ covering our sins through His atoning sacrifice. As M. L. Chancey writes: "The fig-leaf 'aprons' fashioned by our first parents were not enough… When Adam and Eve covered their private parts, God replaced their inadequate coverings with coats to completely clothe their bodies" ("Modesty and the Christian Woman," www.patriarchspath.org).
By contrast, many fashions today are not designed to cover and complement, but rather to reveal and tease. "In both cut and cloth [many styles today] selectively expose and emphasize certain areas of the body. Whatever fashion statement the wearer intends to make, it certainly can't be 'I've got a secret.' Instead of being appreciated for her well-ordered taste and feminine beauty, her 'adorning' will more likely arouse an unholy interest, even lust, in the minds of male onlookers" ("Modesty: Virtue Ignored," Jim Harmon, www.patriarchspath.org). This is the provocative social environment in which we find ourselves today.
Coming Out of the World
God's people are to be coming out of the world (Revelation 18:3–4). We are in the world, but are not to be "of" the world (John 17:15–16). If we look to the world's media for our cues on what is good and right, we will go off the track. Even being "more conservative than the world" is not enough. We must honestly evaluate each decision not on the rules of society, but on godly principles.
This world's fashions and styles—which are often motivated by the lust of the eyes—will soon pass away (1 John 2:15–17)! And yet, saints in God's Church are preparing to lead in a whole new world. What do you imagine the dress will be like in Tomorrow's World, in your city? Will pornographic advertisements be displayed on magazine covers and billboards? The resurrected saints under Christ's direction will teach and guide people in how to dress appropriately. Certainly, clothing styles under Christ's rulership will change dramatically from what they are today! If we are preparing to rule in the Kingdom of God, we must be applying the principles of modesty in attire now.
The Feast of Tabernacles is a wonderful foretaste of the coming millennial reign of Christ. The Festival Site Coordinators Manual provides guidelines on modesty and decorum for functions organized and attended by Living Church of God members. Regarding "fun shows," it says: "We must avoid any off-color jokes, lewd dancing, sexual references, questionable lyrics and costuming, etc., that may be construed as distasteful" (Festival Site Coordinators Manual, "Family Event," May 11, 2006). The manual also sets forth guidelines for beach activities. "The Living Youth Camp swimwear policy has been adopted for LCG Festival sites. Appropriate attire for women is a modest one-piece suit; and men should wear boxer-style trunks. Two-piece outfits for women and 'speedo'-type bathing suits for men are unacceptable" (ibid.). Upholding modest dress standards at the Feast teaches and reminds us that we are there to reflect God's coming Kingdom.
Coming Before God
When the children of Israel were preparing to meet God at Mount Sinai, Moses told them to prepare themselves in regards to their attire—to wash their clothes (Exodus 19:10). The Israelites needed to think about how they presented themselves physically when coming before God. When we worship God on His Sabbath, we are to come to Him in an appropriate and discreet way. We are to be cognizant of the One to whom we are presenting ourselves. Coming before dignitaries—and the King of the Universe is the most important dignitary of all— requires our attention to modest and discreet dress.
Mr. Herbert W. Armstrong taught, as a Church tradition, that we are to wear our best at Sabbath services. He often looked to the business world for accepted norms of balanced and respectful dress. Today, employment and interview advisers are increasingly encouraging women to be careful to maintain modest attire in the workplace. Betsy Olinger, founder of Marketing-U (www.marketing-u.com), a Charlotte-based executive coaching firm, said: "If it's something you think you look 'hot' in, it's wrong" ("Would you hire these people?" Charlotte Observer, June 16, 2006).
What are some of the guidelines job counselors recommend for women? Interview experts counsel women to wear skirts or dresses that come to the knee when seated. One of the top ten mistakes made by female interviewees is wearing "skirts and shirts that are too short or revealing. When you sit, it should hit or cover your knees" (ibid.). Another interview-guidance article explained, "Forget what some of those gals on 'The Apprentice' are wearing. Your skirt should cover your thighs when you are seated" ("What Not to Wear to an Interview," www.careerbuilder.com).
Necklines should be modest as well. According to career advisors, this means no cleavage. "There are very few legitimate jobs where showing off your chest is a good career move… Cover up... If you can't part with your V-neck shirts, simply buy a few camisole shirts to wear underneath them" ("10 Crimes of Work Fashion," www.cnn.com, September 11, 2006). One Texas school district issued this new dress code in 2006: "The display of cleavage is unacceptable. Low cut blouses, tops, sweaters, etc. with plunging necklines are not allowed" ("Texas School District Bans Cleavage," www.keyetv.com, August 4, 2006). A recent study by University of Lawrence professor Peter Glick found that "risque dress on the job is viewed as inappropriate for those in all positions" ("Are You Too Sexy for Your Job?" www.cnn.com, December 6, 2005).
Overly snug, visibly tight clothing can also be immodest: "Make sure there is at least one-inch of room between body and fabric and that it is long enough to conceal your midriff. Stomach, breasts, back and shoulders should be covered. Fabric should not be overly sheer and a bra should be worn (with no straps revealed)" (ibid.). The publication "Modesty Heart Check," encourages women to ask these questions about their clothing: "Does my midriff (or underwear) show when I bend over or lift my hands? If so, is it because my skirt or my pants are too low? Either my shirt needs to be longer or I need to find a skirt or pants that sit higher" ("Modesty Heart Check," Carolyn Mahaney and Nicole Whitacre, Girl Talk: Mother- Daughter Conversations on Biblical Womanhood) . Girls attending Living Youth Camp are instructed to avoid wearing overly short shorts as well as "tank-tops or midriff shirts or low-slung Britney Spears style pants" ("Camper Checklist of Personal Items," Camper Acceptance Packet 2006).
Even "mainstream" employment experts are pointing out the importance of maintaining basic dress standards to please a potential or current employer. Reasonable, minimum standards are also appropriate in our worship of God and in our Church activities. As Paul reminded the brethren in Rome, "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service" (Romans 12:1).
Loving Your Brothers
Like most women, most men attend Sabbath services for the right reasons—to worship, learn from, be challenged by and be corrected by God. Why is dressing modestly so important for women at Church services? Because it affects their relationship with their brothers in Christ, and their brothers' relationship with God.
Of course, though everyone deals with the pulls of human nature, most men at Sabbath services are not on the verge of committing spiritual fornication every second. Men in God's Church are striving to live God's way and guide their thoughts according to His Spirit. On the other hand, for a woman to dismiss the fact that God created men—"hard-wired" them—to be visually stimulated by an attractive woman is to show extreme naivete and foolishness.
One man not in God's Church, yet focused on obeying God as he knows how, put it this way: "I rejoice whenever I see a girl or woman that is attempting to serve the Lord (and guys) by dressing modestly. You have no idea how sweet and challenging it is when I see a woman who has decided not to flaunt her body— like the culture shouts for her to do—but rather she has decided that serving the Lord and her brothers is more important." ("Additional Comments and Testimonies on Modesty," C. J. Mahaney, www.sovereigngraceministries.org).
Men must be vigilant to maintain a high standard in what they put before their eyes, to keep a pure and clean heart (Job 31:1). As author Joshua Harris says: "So what is God's standard when it comes to lust? How much lust does God want us to allow in our lives? Are you ready for this? The answer is not even a hint" (Not Even a Hint: Guarding Your Heart Against Lust, p. 22). Men also need to be aware of the signals they send to the women in their lives. Taking sidelong glances at immodest women, or making casual remarks about scantily clad actresses, sends a message—the wrong message—about what they value in a woman. Fathers' attitudes will affect their children's perspectives about modesty and attire. Men need to teach their sons to flee fornication (1 Corinthians 6:18) and to "identify flirty behavior and avoid being with flirty or touchy girls" ("Waging the War for Sexual Purity," Patrick Hurd, www.fortifyingthefamily. com). Fathers need to take an active role in teaching their daughters to be modest and to "discern the motives of boys who seek their attention" (ibid.).
Both men and women should avoid creating stumbling blocks for each other when coming before God on the Sabbath. That is showing love and service to others—which is fulfilling God's law to love your neighbor as yourself (Galatians 5:14).
Setting a Good Example
Another reason why women in God's Church dress modestly is because of the power of example. Women in God's Church are to be a light to others—including younger women and girls who are seeking role models. Younger girls often want to wear what the older girls wear—and at earlier and earlier ages. How important is it, then, that women of all ages set a good example in the Church?
Our culture today attempts to sexualize girls' attire even in their pre-teens. Designers and retailers are now targeting girls between the ages of four and nine! "The conventional sugar-and-spice girls' style formula is laced these days with sass, the clothes… candidly provocative in their mimicry of grown-up fare…" ("Fashion world expanding options for pint-size clients," Charlotte Observer, September 8, 2006). As editor of the pre-teen magazine Cookie, Pilar Guzman writes, "You get this idea that there is a kind of lost innocence," when racy adult fashions are being worn by ever-younger girls (ibid.). In a world where media marketers seek to introduce adult fashions to younger-and-younger clients, it is more important than ever that mothers, older sisters, teens and adult female friends in God's Church set a good example for the younger girls.
Holding Fast
Christ tells the Church of the Philadelphian era to "hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown" (Revelation 3:11). They are to hold steady to doctrinal purity and scriptural, biblical traditions, and transmit them to the next generation (2 Timothy 2:2). God is not against His daughters looking nice and dressing well. In fact, the Bible records how He adorned and decorated His bride, Israel, in Ezekiel 16:10–14. Modesty in attire can both reflect and influence godly feminine character (1 Peter 3:4). Modesty as a tradition in the Church can include dressing attractively, but always in good taste and propriety. The Living Church of God is committed to setting high standards in regard to modesty in dress, and using love and patience to achieve it.