“The Clothes Make The Man”

Tuesday, January 24, 2017

Okay.  I have a question.  I live in a part of the country where, in the summertime, it gets very hot.  My question is this: I have worn a nice looking Hawaiian-style short-sleeved shirt and a pair of neat, clean, pressed khaki shorts to church on more than one occasion.  The shorts come to mid-calf, just below the knees.  So, what are your thoughts about this?  I personally don't see anything wrong with it – after all, I don't worry what other people think; I am at church to worship God.  I am a 6’ 1 ½” tall male.

Sincerely,
A Tall Drink Of Water

Dear A Tall Drink Of Water,

What clothing we should wear is an issue of modesty and respectability.  Christians need to wear enough clothing so that they aren’t revealing too much of their bodies… it is shameful to show your nakedness (Rev 3:18).  Furthermore, we must dress in a way that is honorable in the sight of all men (Rom 12:17).  In some cultures and parts of the globe, wearing pressed khaki shorts with a Hawaiian shirt is perfectly respectable for worship services; in other areas, it would be considered disrespectful, too casual, and irreverent.  Christians should strive to be “all things to all men”, so we might influence others (1 Cor 9:22).  Modesty is about trying to avoid dressing indecently and letting our clothes send the right message about our priorities (1 Tim 2:9-10).  You will have to decide whether or not your current dress code matches these biblical principles.

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