How should a Christian dress? The Bible says: “in modest apparel.” The phrase appears in 1 Timothy 2:9 and deals specifically with women’s attire. It seems the apostle thought women were more vulnerable in this area, but the concept of modesty applies to both men and women. In the previous verse, Paul instructed men to “pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting” (1 Tim. 2:8). Does that mean women do not need to pray? Of course not. It means the apostle deemed men more susceptible to brawling rather than praying. Once more, modesty—like prayer—applies to both men and women, so this article speaks to all. The word modest means: “restrained by a sense of propriety and decency; not loose; not lustful.” It is coupled with the word shamefacedness, which simply means: “restrained by a sense of shame.” In other words, having the capacity to feel ashamed or embarrassed. The word modest certainly allows room for differences of opinion when it comes to doubtful details. In this case, we are instructed to “let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind” (Romans 14:1, 5). So putting debatable points aside, we are going to look at some of the unchanging principles of the God’s word.
