Cheating 

           Anger 

           Cohabitation

           Greed 

Financial Immorality

Honesty

Modesty

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    Cheating 

Cheating can be a controversial topic in an age of relative truth. Yet, when God’s Word becomes the absolute standard of right and wrong it is easier to decipher whether or not cheating is a sin (John 17:17).

The examples of “cheating” are numerous. Kids cheat on tests at school. Spouses have affairs and cheat on their marital partner. Athletes cheat by taking illegal drugs. Recruiters cheat by making too many phone calls. Adults cheat by not paying the taxes they are obligated to pay. Of course, everybody has their excuses…

• “What’s the big deal? I’m not hurting anyone.”
• “There’s just so much pressure to succeed.”
• “Everybody cheats...so what?”
• “If it makes me happy, and nobody finds out, who cares?”

Despite our rationalizations, cheating should be rebuked. It is a sin. Why?

Because cheating is stealing. The Bible may not use the term “cheat” but it does use the word “steal” (Exodus 20:15; Ephesians 4:28). The kid who cheats on his test steals  information. The man who has sex with his neighbor’s wife steals from her husband, and vice versa. Illegally withholding taxes is stealing from the government (Romans 13:6-7). Lying on a resume can lead to stealing a job from someone more qualified than yourself. God expects you to do your own work and live off your own blessings.

Further, cheating lacks integrity. Integrity is defined as “adherence to a code of values.” Any Christian must ascribe to Christ’s code of ethics. The willingness to cheat indicates a failed standard of right and wrong. God expects us to act with integrity. Proverbs 11:1 says, “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight.” A butcher weighing meat could easily make more money by rigging the scales. However, God expects him to act with integrity and honesty in doing his work. Someone who fails to act in accordance with the standard code of values in his situation displays a lack of integrity.

Cheating harms you. Whether now or in eternity, cheating destroys. Of course, it can ruin our reputation. Despite your accomplishments, the cheater’s name is often followed by an asterisk in our minds. In the Scriptures, Laban was a prosperous businessman but is better known for cheating Jacob. Judas may have done good in his three years as a disciple, but he will be remembered for  betraying Jesus. Ananias and Sapphira were prosperous Christians but their lie is remembered. Proverbs 10:7 says, “The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot.” Of course, eternally, the thief, embezzler, pilferer or stealer “will not inherit the kingdom of God” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Titus 2:10). Are the temporary benefits of cheating worth the long-term risks?

Finally, cheating is a product of the flesh. Among the “works of the flesh” in Galatians 5:19-21 is “covetousness.” Many cheat because they are motivated by covetousness. Athletes will cheat because they covet money or glory. Students will cheat because they covet academic success and scholarships. Adults will cheat just to pocket more money. Spouses will have affairs to satiate their sensual desires. Yet, Colossians 3:5 says, “...put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry…” 

Jesus calls us to live by a higher standard—a standard established by truth (John 17:17). Cheating often undermines truth and the sincere Christian should be sensitive to it in their lives.

Anger

The Bible distinguishes between the words “anger” (the Greek ORGE) and “wrath” (the Greek THUMOS). ORGE is defined as, “Indignation which has arisen gradually and become more settled” (Thayer). Vine adds, “...frequently with a view to taking revenge.” However, THUMOS is “the sudden outburst of passionate anger” (Zondervan’s Pictorial Encyclopedia of the Bible) and “the blaze of temper which flares into violent words and deeds, and just as quickly dies” (Barclay).

In  contrasting the two words, we note “anger” is a lingering, seething emotion which may develop over time. However, “wrath” is a passionate, “heat of the moment” type of response to our emotions. Since sinful anger will condemn one eternally it is important we learn how to deal with it (Galatians 5:19-21).

Bite your tongue. People will both unintentionally and intentionally irritate and upset us. Some do not deserve a response. Jesus refused to respond to His critics who were not interested in dialogue but in pushing Him to the limits (Matthew 27:14). The old country song “you say it best, when you say nothing at all” sometimes applies. Whatever the circumstance, listen to others before speaking. James writes, “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to peak, slow to wrath…” (James  1:19). The book of Proverbs states, “He who is slow to wrath  has great understanding, but he who is impulsive exalts folly” (14:29).

Deal with it quickly. God’s Word never encourages us to stew over our anger for days, weeks and months. Ephesians 4:26-27, “...do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.” The more we  allow our resentment to settle into bitterness the more likely such feelings are to turn into revenge and end in broken relationships. God expects us to deal with conflict quickly so we can avoid such results. It is easy for pride to ruin precious time because we refuse to resolve simple problems. God’s blueprint for conflict-resolution is a piece of wisdom that can improve our lives (Matthew 18:15-17).

Respond tactfully. In college, I minored in Communication Studies. I remember reading in my Interpersonal Communication course about red-flag and green-flag forms of communication. Red-flag communication was the type which made arguments worse and led to broken relationships. Green-flag communication was more inviting and relaxing and signaled healthy relationships. Long before this was a college course,  Proverbs 15:1 taught, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” We need to have sense enough to realize what, when and how you say a thing can make a big difference in how someone responds to it! Be a peacemaker.

Forgive. Each of us has been or will be in need of forgiveness from the Almighty God. Chances are you have broken God’s law and heart in far greater ways than your neighbor or friend or spouse has broken yours. This does not minimize the sting sin can bring to our lives. However, it does force us to consider the thought of Ephesians 4:32, “...be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Christians must respond to those who have wronged them with the same heart of kind forgiveness God displays to those who have wronged Him!

May we not underestimate the importance of controlling our tempers. We can undo reputations and relationships in one moment of uncontrolled anger what has taken years to build. The best of Christians are those who have learned to be like their Master. If we aim to teach a lost world about our Savior we “must not quarrel but be gentle to all…” (2 Timothy 2:24). In so doing, the lost world may see a bit of the beauty of Jesus in us.

Cohabitation

Statistically, cohabitation before marriage is on the rise in our current generation.  The practice of “shacking up” (as some call it) is becoming common place in the world and such trends have a tendency to influence the church.  Consider what the Bible says about such a practice.

Marriage is the only suitable relationship to share a bed.  Hebrews 13:4 says, “Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.”  Any sensuality and sexuality outside of the marriage relationship is condemned, not endorsed by God (1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21).  Should God’s followers care more about what they think or what God thinks about their decisions (see Colossians 3:17)?

“Flee sexual immorality.”  Those are the concise words of the inspired apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 6:16.  Like Joseph with Potiphar’s wife, run away from sexual temptation (Genesis 39:11-12)!  Further, our Lord encouraged His disciples to pray “...do not lead us into temptation” (Matthew 6:13).  How can we say we are “fleeing” the temptation of sexual immorality while putting ourselves in a house with someone we admire of the opposite sex?  Can we realistically ask the Lord to “not lead us into temptation” while simultaneously defying the prayer by living with others where there is sexual attraction?

Consider your example to others.  1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”  The Christian must always consider their “example” in their every act.  If our attitude demonstrates a lack of concern for our “example” we will be “despised” in the eyes of believers.  What kind of example does it set to a 15-year old teen from church if they see an older Christian they admire walk into a strip bar?  What will that 15-year-old assume about you?  It does not matter if you drink one single drink and sit their blind-folded the entire time it will easily compromise your influence.  Likewise, what does one generally assume about another when their boyfriend/girlfriend stays the night in their home/apartment?  We can make self-justifying claims but the truth is our influence has been compromised and example has been weakened.  Sadly, whether we acted on our impulses or not we may be a stumbling block to others as they imitate our poor discretion (1 Corinthians 8:9-11).

Look for the way of escape.  1 Corinthians 10:12-13 warns and then promises, “Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.  No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”  Many claim their “circumstances” necessitate living together.  Yet, will we pay so much attention to financial and relational concerns that we ignore the spiritual considerations?  Is there not someone else (a parent, relative, member of the church) who can take you or your friend into their home to avoid such a threatening situation?

Rebuke and expose sin rather than hiding it.  In Joshua 7, Achan commits a sin and his entire family is punished (7:24-25).  Why?  Quite simply: they knew about his stolen goods being hid under their tent and did not expose their father’s sin to all of Israel.  Likewise, if we know of Christians in sinful situations we have a duty to expose and rebuke such sin, even in our families.  Unfortunately, many like to sweep it under the carpet and keep it “hush-hush” or just “don’t ask questions” (usually because we know the answers). Such actions not only bring reproach upon the one guilty but upon all those who know of the sin and refuse to follow Paul’s clear instructions regarding brethren guilty of unrepentant sin.  Note them and “avoid them” (1 Corinthians 5:9-13; Romans 16:17).

By the way, if you think living together will make a better marriage more likely, think again.  The divorce rate is significantly higher for those who cohabit before marriage compared to those who do not!  Once again proving God’s way is the best way to a full and happy life (2 Peter 1:3).

**For statistics and/or a free sermon on this subject contact us!

Greed

The problem of greed has plagued men of all ages.  It is not limited to any particular race, gender, economic class, age group or nation.  Biblically, many Bible characters have set themselves up for problems by an inordinate desire for the best of material things. 

The first woman, Eve, desired the forbidden fruit and sinned (Genesis 3:6).  Lot selfishly chose the beautiful plain of the Jordan and gave Abraham the inferior land (Genesis 13:10-13).  Laban’s greed caused him to act deceptively with Jacob in order to keep his profitable work ethic on his farm for a while longer (Genesis 29:15-30; 31:7,15,41-42).  Balaam loved the “wages of unrighteousness” (2 Peter 2:15).  Achan hid the money and clothes he coveted and stole from the accursed city of Jericho (Joshua 7:21).  King Saul coveted the praise of the people and defied God’s command to receive this earthly glory (1 Samuel 15:8-9).  Even King David was not immune to greed as he coveted another man’s wife, Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:2-5).  King Ahab wanted Naboth’s vineyard (1 Kings 21:26).  Gehazi took a gift from Naaman when he should have refused it (2 Kings 5:20-27).  The Jews unlawfully charged interest to their own brethren and even kept back the portion due to the Levites (Nehemiah 5:1-11; 13:10). 

In the New Testament, Jesus boldly rebuked the sins of the covetous.  He threw the greedy money changers out of the temple.  (Makes one wonder what he would do with some churches today!)  Further, Jesus spoke bluntly to the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-22) and His own death on the cross was partially the result of greed—Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15-16). 

These examples show us greed and covetousness can refer to much more than money.  It can apply to a thirst for land, clothing, tools, women, popularity and much more.  Yet, the problem with greed is it is often so easy to see in others and so hard to see in ourselves.  Thus, Jesus tells us “beware of covetousness.”  In other words, greed will blindside you if you are not careful!

Since greed is difficult to detect notice a few indicators of its presence.

Greed is focusing on the earthly over the spiritual.  Jesus demands His followers be more interested in “treasures in heaven” rather than “treasures on earth” because serving both is impossible (Matthew 6:19-21, 24).  Do you spend more time on the earthly and temporal or the heavenly and spiritual?

Greed is leaving God out of our finances.  There was nothing wrong with the “rich fool” making a profit (Luke 12:16-21).  His real sin was using all of his money for his own pleasures and not thinking at all of how God would have him spend his money.  Jesus makes this point saying, “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God” (12:21).  Are you as generous with the Lord as you are toward yourself?  Is the Lord in your weekly budget (1 Corinthians 16:1-2)?

Greed is seen as we hoard everything for ourselves.  The rich man refused to give Lazarus even the crumbs off of his table (Luke 16:14-23).  Part of our money should be used to share with others who are less fortunate (Ephesians 4:27; 1 Timothy 6:17-19).  When was the last time you paid somebody’s utility bill, bought someone a grocery gift card or took someone shopping who was in need?  Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

Greed is the failure to live within our means.  Paul demands “contentment” with just “food and clothing” as he writes to Timothy (1 Timothy 6:6-10).  How often do we make ourselves slaves to financial lenders and credit card companies because we are not content with the basic needs of life (Proverbs 22:7)?

Greed is refusing to honorably support yourself.  If we are capable of working, we should   (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12).  Some try to steal, gamble or bum their way through life as they refuse to work.  For the able-bodied, God’s only authorized means of support is a J-O-B!  Even Paul made tents when he did not receive enough support via preaching (Acts 18:1-3).

If you see the symptoms of greed in your life, you can change.  God offers forgiveness for this sin as well as all others (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).  Seek the true riches of heaven today!

Taming the Tongue

God’s Word is candid about the priority Christians should place on controlling their tongues. James tells Christians their “religion is useless” if one “does not bridle his tongue” (James 1:26). Jesus said, “...by your words you will be justified, and  by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37). Thus, using your tongue wisely is more than good advice it is an issue directly attached to your salvation.

Unfortunately, many think very little about how they use their tongues. Yet, the Bible details several ways we can misuse our mouth.

Lying. John declares “all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death” (Revelation 21:8). Paul demanded of the church at Ephesus,  “...put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore, putting away lying, ‘let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor’” (Ephesians 4:24-  25). Many try to justify lying if the situation is right. However, the New Testament offers no such loophole. The severity of lying is seen as Jesus calls Satan “the father” of liars (John 8:44-45).

Cursing. The Old Testament law demanded death to a child who cursed his father or mother (Exodus 21:17). The meaning of “curse” as it is used in the New Testament means “to  curse, doom, impecrate evil upon” (Thayer). Since we are all made in God’s image we should never speak words which devalue another human being. James writes of the inconsistency of pretending to praise God and curse His creation. He says,  “With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren these things ought not to be so” (James 3:9- 10). While some may curse and demean us with four-letter or insulting words, we are to do the opposite for others. Jesus says, “...love your enemies, bless those who curse you…” (Matthew 5:44).

Taking the Lord’s name in vain. Our culture is too flippant about the way they use the name of God. We swear by God’s name. We holler out his name as an expletive. One of Moses’ “Ten Commandments” was “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain” (Exodus 20:7). Simply put, if you are going to call out God’s name it had better be in prayer or in teaching someone His Word.  Jesus repeats the heart of this commandment in Matthew 5:33.

Gossip. In the Old Testament, one of the more common words used to describe the gossip is the word “talebearer” (Leviticus 19:16).  Paul rebuked the women who were idle “gossips” (1 Timothy 5:13). Further, those who spent their time as “whisperers” or “backbiters” were condemned by the apostle Paul (Romans 1:29-30). Too often, we try to divisively ruin reputations and cause trouble by speaking of others in a negative light. God expects our speech to “impart grace to the hearers” (Ephesians 4:29-31). 

Slander. While gossip may be true stories with negative implications, slander includes false accusations (Titus 2:3). Just one false accusation can create a whirlwind of trouble. Ultimately, the one who slants the truth is despised by God (Proverbs  6:16- 19).

Coarse Jesting. The Bible even covers the “dirty joke.” We live in an age where it is popular to be crude. Very few comedians can go through an entire act without sexual innuendo, toilet humor, stories of drunken revelry or racist remarks. Paul writes, “But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but giving of thanks” (Ephesians 5:3-4). Those who try to teach the gospel will always be judged by a higher standard (James 3:1). Be careful of your language. The failure to speak with dignity not only reveals a lack of class, it can ruin our influence with others.

Financial Immorality

Living morally requires adhering to a code of conduct in all facets of our lives. The failure to follow these standards of morality proves us to be immoral. For the Christian, our moral code is founded in the pages of Scripture. After all, Scripture is able to make us “complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The knowledge we have of God, through the word, gives “us all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3).

With this in mind, morality stretches beyond mere sexual mores, issues of etiquette and legal questions often posed in government courtrooms. True morality is concerned with making good decisions in every area where God’s Word has spoken. One such area is the practice of financial discretion. By command, example and inference the Bible offers sound financial advice  and principles every Christian should heed. The failure to do so can lead us into several forms of financial immorality. Consider a few forms of such immorality…

The refusal to provide for one’s family. 1 Timothy 5:8 says, “...if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”  God calls us to use our incomes to provide our family’s necessities. It is a sad indictment upon an individual who refuses to care for his spouse or offspring. In this context, it was specifically shameful for a Christian to refuse to help his widowed mother (see 1 Timothy 5:16).

The refusal to work so we might provide for our family. While some do not provide for their families due to stinginess, others fail to provide because of laziness. Some refuse to work. The apostle  Paul once commanded, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Those who have ability and opportunity should be searching for employment so they might work (Matthew 20:1-17). The only Biblically authorized income for the able-bodied  Christian is through inheritance or work. Stealing, gambling or bumming our way through life is not an option for the sincere Christian. Ephesians 4:28 says, “Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good…”

The refusal to share with others. Beyond providing for our family, God binds other financial obligations upon the Christian. For example, the rest of Ephesians 4:28 says one should work “that he may have something to give him who has need.” James 1:27 specifically mentions our duties toward the “fatherless and widows.” Jesus used the “Good Samaritan” to  teach us being a good neighbor sometimes means helping those who have fallen on hard times. Thus, we should not spend every last penny on our provisions and pleasures. Every Christian should save some to share some. Paul demanded Christians be “rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share” (1 Timothy 6:18).

The refusal to give to help in the Lord’s kingdom. Jesus praised the widow who gave sacrificially to help the kingdom of God (Mark 12:41-44). Likewise, Paul demanded every Christian “lay something aside” so money could be given to the Lord’s work  every “first day of the week” (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). God once used the prophet Malachi to ask, “Will a man rob God? Yet you  have robbed Me!...In tithes and offerings” (3:8). How sad it will be for some to stand before the judge and be accused of robbing the Almighty God to cater to their own pleasures.

The refusal to pay your debts. It was Jesus who demanded we “render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s” (Matthew  22:21). Paul wrote, “Render therefore to all their due, taxes to whom taxes…” (Romans 13:7). God’s Word demands we pay, not evade, our taxes. Additionally, Christians should pay their bills. The refusal to pay someone for a service they have provided defies the Golden  Rule. Paul wrote, “Owe no one anything except to love one another… Love does no harm to a neighbor…” (Romans 13:8,10). How would you feel if someone did not pay you for a day’s work? Or a house you built, or a car?

The refusal to be content. God calls each Christian to learn contentment with our basic needs (Philippians 4:11; 1 Timothy 6:6). The failure to live within our means  signals discontentment. Are you content or are you living beyond your ability? The quest for materialism bears no fruit in eternity and often results in debilitating worry (Matthew 6:19-34).

As stewards of God, we must use our material gifts in ways that bring honor to Him. Are your financial decisions made with the Lord’s will in mind or your own personal pleasures?

Honesty

We live in an age where a firm handshake is no longer considered a binding contract. Contracts must be signed. Documents must be notarized. Oaths must be recited with eyewitness proof. A person’s “word” is about as firm as a wet noodle. This should not be the case for the Christian.

Strict judgment is placed upon the Christian who does not keep his word. Jesus stated, “...let  your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one” (Matthew 5:37). James writes, “But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No,’ lest you fall into judgment” (James 5:12). Though the world may laugh at the idea of one’s “word” Jesus clearly takes it seriously. He demands unequivocal honesty. Consider the various areas of life we might improve if we would all subscribe  to a policy of unwavering honesty.

Honesty in marriage. Most marriages begin with a vow or oath of unwavering loyalty. Nearly every marriage begins with a promise to remain married “until death do  us part.” Yet, how many married couples go back on their word? Over half! It is no better on the second marriage either. The percentage of second marriages ending in divorce is even higher than first marriages. It makes  sense, doesn’t it? If you did not keep your word the first time you were married, why be trusted to keep your word the second time around? The prophet Malachi teaches “God hates divorce” (2:16). God does not just arbitrarily hate divorce  without cause. He hates it because it violates His very nature. God is truth. The one who puts away their spouse without just cause makes their vows a lie!

Honesty in government. It should be every Christian’s desire  to see a government act justly and honestly. It is every government ruler’s job to be a “terror...to evil” (Romans 13:3). Unfortunately, some governing rulers have exchanged evil for good and good  for evil. Some do so for the sake of bribes (see Acts 24:26-27). Others do so out of an ignorant disregard for God. As government’s despise truth and endorse moral lies Christians are put at higher risk of  persecution. For this reason, Paul encouraged all to pray “for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (1 Timothy 2:2). As government’s exchange their God-ordained roles in favor of  their self-serving ideals our risk is in peril. Thus, we need men and women in government who honestly perform their duties. Further, when we elect good men based on moral promises we should expect them to deliver.

Honesty in business. Have you ever been quoted one rate or price and find out later the  quoted price was raised? Has anyone ever tried to sell something to you on the phone that was “free” only to find out it was “free for thirty days?” Businesses are famous for jacking up rates, using the bait-and-switch and excluding the “fine print” from the original deal. These are dishonest practices. God expects more out of Christians. Though we may make more money with dishonest business tactics,  we will also have to live with a guilty conscience for ripping off others (Hebrews 13:18). Further, our reputation will suffer as a result of our evil.

Honesty in the church. It would be nice if all churches taught the same true doctrines. However, churches often teach and practice different doctrines. We need to be  careful our preachers and teachers “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). Jesus warned of the reality of false teachers (Matthew 7:15). Peter warned of the past, present and future reality of false teachers (1 Peter 2:1-2). Paul commanded, “...brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them” (Romans 16:17). A  teacher or preacher who is dishonest with the truth should not be embraced, but avoided.

Honesty in everyday affairs. If we are known as honorable people it will slowly impress the watching world. Peter wrote, “abstain from fleshly lusts which war  against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your  good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation” (1 Peter 2:11-12). Hypocrites will turn people off. Honorable Christians will draw them toward the religion of Christ. Do you keep your word, even in the smallest of matters? Jesus once stated,  “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much” (Luke 16:10).

Failing to be honest in the relationships of life ruins our reputation.  In marriage it makes us an adulterer. In government it makes us a terror. In business it makes us a cheater. In the church it makes us a liar. In life it makes us a hypocrite. Keep your word!

Modesty

A common excuse for immodest apparel is “God does not care about what I look like, He cares about my heart.” While God’s main focus is on the heart of man, the outer man can often be a physical insight into one’s spiritual barometer. While immodest apparel may just seem like a matter of poor judgment, it is actually an issue of morality.

God’s Word lays down principles for appropriate dress and the Christian should be careful to discern and apply these principles in their daily lives (not just “at church”). Two New Testament passages give us instruction on what God expects in this area. If the heart is right with God, we will allow God’s Word to guide us in what we put on our exterior.

1 Timothy 2:9-10 says, “...the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works” (NKJV).

A second text is found in 1 Peter 3:3-4, “Do not let your adornment be merely outward— arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.”

Notice the CEV’s modern paraphrase of this same passage, “Don’t depend on things like fancy hairdos or gold jewelry or expensive clothes to make you look beautiful. Be beautiful in your heart by being gentle and quiet. This kind of beauty will last, and God considers it very special.”

There are five key words found in these two texts which will help us decipher whether our dress is in line with God’s standards— modest, propriety, moderation, gentle and quiet. As the Christian takes one last look in the mirror, ask yourself…

Would my look be considered “gentle?”

This is a word meaning “mild” or “meek.” Therefore, dress intended to make one look rough, mean, rude, crude or arrogant is the opposite of this principle. Face it, some people look flat-out scary in the world today with their black eye make-up, leatherstudded wear and crude T-shirts and bumper stickers. We can display such by our dress and in our attitudes as well.

Does my dress reflect a “quiet spirit?”

Vine’s defines the word “quiet” here as “causing no disturbance to others.” Any type of dress intended to “get a reaction” by its lusty appeal, extravagance or rebellion defies this principle. If your goal is to get a double-take from men on the street or to “defy the norm” you are dressing immorally.

Is my outfit “modest?”

The term “modest” means “orderly, well-arranged, decent and respectable.” In the 1st century, the term “modest” was used as an opposite to revealing clothes that were too tight, too short, etc. If your outfit could fit into an egg, it might just not be “modest.” If your jeans look like Moral Issues Modesty they have been spray-painted on your legs, you might want to move up a size or two or three. On the other hand, if your underwear’s showing because your pants are down at your knees this is not generally considered “respectable.” Likewise, jeans that have been attacked by an army of moths do not fit God’s definition of modesty here. Before Joseph came from the dungeon to see Pharaoh he respectably “shaved” and “changed his clothing” (Genesis 41:14).

Does my apparel display a sense of “propriety?”

The term “propriety” is also translated as “shamefaced” (KJV). Another synonym is “bashfulness.” God does not want us arrogantly flaunting our body to the world. Instead, we should have a sense of shame and a humble opinion of our figures. Why do women want to wear short shorts, tight jeans and bikinis? Why do men like to walk around shirtless flexing? They fail to have the proper perspective on their bodies. It displays pride instead of shame.

Do my clothes reflect a sense of “moderation.”

Think “moderate” as you read this word. God does not expect you to turn your collar backwards and walk around with Jesus T-shirts so you are known as a right-wing, religious radical (see Matthew 23:5). Yet, nor does God want us to be worldly, lust-driven liberals always pushing the envelope in the realm of our appearance.

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