Modest Clothing for Christians | What Propriety Means in 1 Timothy 2:9
Paul, in 1 Timothy, talks about the way we dress. Some people think this is not really an issue we should care about. But it's right here in God's Word, and I believe it is still an important issue today.
This is what he wrote: "I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes" (1 Timothy 2:9-10 NIV11).
We've already dealt with modesty and decency these past two days, but what does Paul mean when he says that we should dress with propriety?
What Does Propriety Mean in Dressing?
Well, that word means "appropriate". Dress in a way that is appropriate for the setting.
Successful business people may dress in fancier, less modest clothes, because in their workplace it is appropriate to dress up and show that you value excellence in that setting.
In fact, I remember when Shereen and I were engaged, and a family member of ours who is a lawyer offered to do an ante-nuptial contract for us as a gift, which was very kind. So we arranged to meet him at his office, and Shereen and I, being thoughtless and young, arrived at this law firm very casually dressed - I was in my shorts and t-shirt and slops, looking very sloppy if I'm honest - and the receptionist took one look at us and said with a polite smile, "Can I help you?" as if she knew we were definitely in the wrong place.
When Alec came out to meet us he was in a suit and tie and shiny shoes, and I just felt so out of place and embarrassed! I had misread what was appropriate for the occasion.
Dressing Appropriately for Every Occasion
People dress up for weddings, because it's appropriate for an occasion of such importance. But most know that trying to out-dress the bride would be inappropriate.
It might be appropriate to show more skin in the context of your marriage and the privacy of your home, but in other settings it’s in appropriate.
Should Christians Dress Up for Church?
In fact, sometimes I miss the days when people used to dress up a bit for church! Yes, I know that God accepts us as we are, and that dress codes quickly become legalistic. I don't want a return to that. But I think sometimes we forget that church is a sacred occasion where we gather with others to worship the living God together - perhaps it is appropriate to dress for Him, in some sense, at church?
I wonder if we are giving enough thought to the way we dress as followers of Jesus.
Paul is saying - for women and for men - appearance matters, as a follower of Christ. Let's respect ourselves, and each other, and our Lord, enough to show it in the way we dress.
Dressing well isn't wrong, but Paul reminds us that our clothing should always be appropriate for the setting we're in. Consider what you're dressing for today, and check whether your choices suit the occasion and honour those around you.