Modesty for Christian Women

Modesty for Christian Women

(NOTE: The first several pages lay the foundation for the subject. Please be patient and read with a heart to hear God's heart.)

When it comes to the subject of Christian women there are two words that can stir up all kinds of unrest - Submission and Modesty. Both are addressed in scripture and yet both have probably been argued about by multitudes of women.

Many women may say that how they dress is their business and has nothing to do with what is inside of them, let alone their spirituality. Many may insist that no one has the right to judge them by their clothes and further that if any one is uncomfortable with their appearance it is their problem. They may contend that if it is a man and he has lust problems that this is not the concern of the woman but something the man himself needs to deal with.

Obviously in todays society, it is common to hear the words "a woman's body is her own." This is usually emphasized when the subject of abortion is addressed. A distinction that is not necessarily made is whether or not the woman is married, even though such a distinction is made in scripture that tells us - Eph. 5:28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

This being the case, why would one even consider approaching the subject of modesty, when it comes to women?

First of all the focus of this writing is toward -

1. those who claim to be Christians

2. those who truly are Christians

3. the Word of God.

Since the Word of God does address this issue, then all who claim to be children of God and particularly the daughters of God, should consider carefully what God has to say on the subject and see if the common mindset that is in the world today harmonizes with God's opinion.

This being the case, I feel it is necessary to first take a look at the fundamental attitude that is presented in scripture that is to be had by ALL Christians - to lay the foundation that is to support all our thinking on any particular subject. There is a world view and there is God's view.

For those who wish to be daughters of God it is imperative to know that the position you take on any issue is first and foremost, set upon the foundation of God. Your decisions concerning how you live your life, should be guided by the Holy Spirit, the Word of God and the reasoning and deductive abilities God has given you. They should not be determined by, or swayed by any of the world's voices that are clamoring in the air about us.

Everything concerning the life of a daughter of God should be securely set on one solid and firm foundation. No single issue, subject or doctrine, is separate from that foundation, nor stands alone. There can only be one foundation and that is Jesus Christ himself.

1Cor. 3:11For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

This foundation is sure, steadfast, unmovable and unshakable. It is a safe place on which to build one's life.

Yes the foundation is Jesus Christ. He is our example; the pattern which we are to follow in our daily lives.

We are to follow in His steps.

You may find it difficult to see how this has anything to do with how women dress. Please bear with me.

Everything that pertains to the life of a daughter of God - MUST - be based on the relationship to Christ and his calling to -

Eph. 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

As a follower of God we are to emulate Him and His attitude.

And what was Christ's example?

A LIFE OF SELFLESSNESS - NOT - SELFISHNESS!

He came to earth to do something for others that would involve suffering. He was not all about his own comfort. He gave of himself to the point of laying down His life to reconcile sinners to the Father. He gave up a position in heaven, left the position of immortal God to become a human being and walk in the dirt, live and die for YOU and me! In other words the example we are to follow is -

.

1 Peter 2:21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

Daughters of God get this into your mind and spirit - your life on this earth is not to be all about self but rather your life is to be -

1Tim. 4;12 ... but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Our life is to illustrate Christ to others, by our word, our behavior, our charity (love), our spirit, our faith and our purity.

But does that behavior go as far as how we dress?

Does that really matter?

We will see what the scriptures have to say concerning this. What the Bible has to say does not pertain only to the times in which it was written. It is relevant today!

It is common these days to hear the idea that things are changing - times are changing, and the conclusion seems to be, or at the least, to strongly suggest - that our moral behavior is expected to change as well. But God has said -

Mal. 3:6 For I am the LORD, I change not; ....

When God himself makes changes, like bringing salvation through His own death and resurrection, He makes these things known to us. But who and what He is, His moral values and His view of right and wrong, light and darkness, never change. He may deal with a disobedient person differently than He does an obedient person, but He Himself and His plan and purpose does not change!

For example, in the Old Law of Moses, a woman caught in the act of fornication was stoned to death. This showed the people how terrible this sin was and also helped to prevent it spreading. This law was given to a people who did not yet have access to salvation through Jesus Christ because Jesus had not yet given His life for our sins. They did not have the strengthening power of the Holy Spirit. Therefore they were given laws that would show them right from wrong and keep a check on the spreading of those things that were not only displeasing to God, but were harmful to the people themselves.

1 Tim. 1:9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,

God's opinion concerning righteousness has not changed, now that we have access to salvation through the blood of Jesus. But we have been provided a way to live in God's righteousness and not have to suffer His wrath for disobedience to Him and His Word.

If you are a woman and say you are a born again Christian, then you are saying you are a daughter of God and a part of His body. If this is so, then all things, whether career choices, studies, home locations, dating/or not, relationships (including everything from friendships to marital,) etc., even including how we present ourselves to others in lifestyle, behavior and manner of dress - ALL - of our life must be intricately connected to our lives as followers of God as dear children - 'HIS' daughters. And our lives must rest securely upon the foundation - Jesus Christ!

Our lives are to be God's, and are to be lived 'in' and 'through' Him.

Acts 17:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

Too many times people tend to separate or compartmentalize certain parts of their lives, as some things being spiritual and others natural, or simply things of necessity. Of course there are things that we do on a daily basis that do not seem too spiritual, like shopping, laundry and so on. However the things we do that affect the lives of our spouses, children and even friends should also be considered a part of the ministry He has given us. Certainly God may not be too concerned about what kind of laundry detergent we use, for example. Still, such things as being a wise shopper and provider so that we are not buying detergent that is causing allergies to family members, not over paying and thereby wasting money, can be a part of how we live as daughters of God who care for their family through the love of God that dwells in us.

The way we live our daily lives reflects something, whether it be something fleshly, selfish and carnal, or something spiritual and godly.

Ultimately it is important that we - LIVE - MOVE and HAVE OUR VERY BEING - 'in' God.

Selfishness cannot rule the heart and life of a daughter of God. Our life is to be hid with Christ in God. He is to be glorified, not only in the songs we sing in church, or how we behave in a worship service, but in our daily life. We are even to glorify God in our bodies which belong to the Lord.

1 Cor. 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

1Cor. 6:13 ... Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.

Here we see that even what we do sexually is not separate from our spiritual life, for all is interconnected and all that we are belongs to Him!

WHAT IS THE POSITION OF OUR LIFE TO BE? WHAT IS OUR CALLING IN HIM?

Gal. 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Luke 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

1Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Col. 3:3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

We have been chosen, called out of darkness, bought with a price, crucified with Christ, reconciled to God, made to be His witnesses on earth, to shine His light into the darkness, show forth His praises, made to be His ambassadors, and instructed to take up our cross - daily - that is, die to self that Christ may live in us and others may be reached for Him through our lives. We are to be dead to self and our life - hid with Christ in God.

God has given us a ministry. It is the ministry of reconciliation.

2 Corinthians 5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

Think of it! This is not - cannot be - a self centered life! It is a life of caring for others as much as we care for ourselves and even putting selfish desires aside for the good of others!

2 Corinthians 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Phil. 2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

1 Cor. 14:26 ... Let all things be done unto edifying.

Edifying is building up. All that we do should be to build up, not tear down, either ourselves or others. As daughters of God we are a part of a family, a body that belongs to God himself. And how we affect each other is vitally important.

Eph. 4:16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Romans 15:2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.

A daughter of the King cannot say "My body is my own" when she has been instructed to -

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

If our body has been presented to God as a living sacrifice then we should not be astounded if He has something to say about how our body (His body) is adorned, or that is presented before the world, who are to be able to 'see' Christ reflected in us!

Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

Galatians 5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Galations 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

1 Peter 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

WE ARE CALLED TO BE HOLY!

So then even approaching the subject of modesty, or, that is, how we clothe our bodies, we have to remain securely on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

Rather than saying - 'Your body is your own and has nothing to do with your spirituality' The Bible says that our body belongs to the Lord, that it is for the Lord. He is for the body and we are to glorify Him IN OUR BODY!

Notice it does not say, 'glorify God in your heart, mind and spirit, which are living in your body, but which have nothing to do with your body except to house the real you! You may have heard such ideas but they do not come from God's Word.

There are many things in scripture that speak specifically of God's will and calling for those who are women, professing a life in Christ and who profess godliness. In other posts I have considered many of the aspects of women's lives. I've covered the creation of the woman and the fact of her completing the man and the image of God. God's intent for the oneness of the husband and wife is very clear.

Of her very creation God said -

Gen. 2:18 And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.

In our modern times, this may not be welcome news. The world has been presented the mindset of total individuality, independence and the idea that everything must center around 'my' happiness, 'my' assessment of things, 'my' dreams and 'my' goals. If anyone or anything does not fit well into this, then it must be either turned away from or at the least, become secondary in importance.

But this mindset is completely opposite of the heart, mind and intentions of God for the woman.

She was created to be a help meet to her husband and to complete the image of God on earth. She was created to mother, bringing life into the world - children who are the heritage of God.

If any Christian woman is praying for the will of God in her life, she needs to first understand that He has written His first and foremost will for her in the Word of God and that is where she needs to go first. She needs first to go back to God's basics. Anything He plans for her individual life will only be a part of His original purpose and plan for her. It will never go contrary to this!

THE MESSAGE

We will find that scriptures indicate that the way a woman adorns herself gives a message. It doesn't matter if you cry with a loud voice "I am not making a statement by my outward appearance!" It doesn't matter if you agree or not. The foundation we are to build our lives on remains Jesus Christ, and His Word remains the guide for our lives.

It was God who designed the woman and there are some things she needs to understand about her body and thus what is reflected by how she adorns it, dresses or undresses it.

Women need to recognize the fact that God created them in such a way as to be pleasing and desirous to the man, for she was to be one with him and to be a very real part of his life. She was to be the vessel that would carry his seed, and life itself. Considering this, it is a blessing that God made her pleasing in the sight of her husband and something to be desired and appreciated. Scripture describes the physical attractiveness of the woman to the one she loves and there is nothing suggesting this is beyond what God intended. The sexual aspect of the human life was never to be separated from their spirituality or considered carnal and/or unclean in any way. The coming together of man and wife was a reflection of the Godhead, and an expression of the love they have for one another, the appreciation they have for each other even physically, and through this God given gift the fruit of life was to be a joyous and blessed result.

Pslam 127:3 Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

Here are a few scriptures that illustrate the attractiveness of the woman and man to each other. These scriptures do not suggest that this is less than natural. Rather this is the design of God.

Prov. 5:19 Let her be as the loving hind and pleasant roe; let her breasts satisfy thee at all times; and be thou ravished always with her love.

Song of Solomon 1:13 A bundle of myrrh is my well beloved unto me; he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts.

Song of Solomon 4:1 Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; thou hast doves' eyes within thy locks: thy hair is as a flock of goats, that appear from mount Gilead.

Song of Solomon 6:5 Turn away thine eyes from me, for they have overcome me: thy hair is as a flock of goats that appear from Gilead.

While we know that breast are designed to produce food for babies, we can see from these scriptures that they were also designed in a way that would bring pleasure to a husband. Also mentioned here are the eyes and hair. Solomon 6:5 the writer speaks of being overcome by the lover's eyes which are the windows of the soul. We know that volumes can be spoken through the expression of the eyes. As a matter of fact, what is on the inside of us is expressed by our bodies, through words, expressions, movements and yes - how we adorn our bodies!

Now let's go on to look more closely at the particular subject of modesty, having established the foundation for our thinking, our beliefs and our actions.

It is usually not enough to know a few isolated verses of scripture on any subject, but it is important to get a view of the authors purpose and intent on any matter that so effects the daily lives of individuals.

On the subject of 'MODESTY' there are several basic considerations in scripture. There may be few who realize that the importance of how women adorn themselves, that is, how they present their outward appearance, has to do with, or is even connected to these issues.

1 The testimony of Christ (witness)

2 Faithfulness

3 Purity

4 Godliness

5 The edification of others

6 Cause of stumbling (falling away from God) of others

7 Submission

In 1 Timothy chapter two this subject is addressed. However these scriptures do not stand alone. They are connected to the verses, and/or statements made just prior. To see what is really being said these verses must be taken in context. So let's take time to see what the author is actually talking about.

1Tim. 2:5-10 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

7 Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. 8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.

9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

Paul points out that he has been ordained a preacher and an apostle; a teacher to the Gentiles in faith and verity (truth). The verses before this tells what he is a teacher of - the truth that there is one God, one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom for all etc.

As a teacher he instructed that it was his will for men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.

This 'holy' in the Greek is - ; prop. right (by intrinsic or divine character ...

Every Sunday people all over America will gather in buildings to worship. Thousands will lift their hands as they sing or pray. But how many will do what Paul was instructing here - lift holy hands?

Yet this is written for our instruction. When we lift our hands in prayer, they should be 'holy' hands and we should be free from 'wrath' and 'doubting.'

Wrath here is (Grk.) orge; prop. desire (as reaching forth or excitement of the mind), that is, (by anal.) violent passion ... punishment ... vengeance ...

Wrath seems to be a point that is reached that is beyond anger. It is a violent passion that could perhaps produce a seeking for punishment and/or vengeance.

This 'doubting' is (Grk.) dialogismos; discussion, that is, (internal) consideration ... doubtful (-ing) imagination, reasoning ...

Let your hands be holy. Let their be no wrath in your heart and no doubtful imaginations, but pray in faith with a clean heart.

Romans 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

James 1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

Now after addressing these things, Paul the apostle of Jesus Christ, goes on in verse nine and ten. to says this -

9. IN LIKE MANNER also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or costly array.

10. But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

IN LIKE MANNER - or that is, in the same way as men are to pray lifting holy hands without wrath or doubting, - women are instructed to adorn themselves in a particular way. Adorn here means, (Grk) to put themselves in proper order, that is, decorate (lit. or fig.) ...

Remember that Paul is talking about how people are to conduct themselves when they pray, evidently in the presence of others.

It is easy for modern women to point to various cultures, individual attitudes and purposes, when it comes to how a woman should dress. But there are Biblical instructions and there is a proper way for a woman to put her appearance in order - if - she is a woman who professes godliness with good works. If you do not consider yourself to be a godly woman, and you have no desire to be, then you may disregard these scriptures. These are guidelines for CHRISTIAN women. And any woman who claims to be a follower of Christ ought to pay close attention to the instructions of scripture.

What is the proper order in which a woman is to adorn herself?

The first thing Paul instructs is for women to adorn themselves in 'modest apparel'

This word 'modest' is (Grk.) kosmois; orderly, that is, decorous: - of good behavior, modest.

If we were to stop there, there could be a variety of opinions and even arguments as to just what is actually 'modest'. However he did not only say 'modest apparel' - but - modest apparel with shamefacedness and sobriety.

What are these two things? These are the keys as to how a woman can know how she needs to present herself to the world!

Shamefacedness is (Grk.) aidos ; (through the idea of downcast eyes); bashfulness, that is, towards men, modesty or (towards God) awe: reverence, shamefacedness.

Sobriety is (Grk.) sophrosune; soundness of mind, that is, (literally) sanity or (figuratively) self control ...

I can just imagine that the very idea of what this word 'shamefacedness ' implies, will be upsetting to many women. Can you hear the outcry already?

And yet there it is, plainly written in scripture. In what sense should women be bashful toward men? This is not referring to women being too bashful to confer with men, for obviously she is being told how to appear when she 'is'  praying in the presence of men.

But her modesty is to also be with 'sobriety' or self control. Yes self control. It is not all about 'me'. A woman of God is not supposed to be flaunting 'self' and her body before men, but rather her focus is to be on prayer and glorifying God.

Paul tells them further that they are not to adorn themselves with braided hair, gold, pearls, or costly array.

The point being made then is this, that when the woman prays she is not to be adorning herself in a way that will draw the men's attention to her rather than to God. Remember she is to be lifting 'holy' hands to God. God is the point of worship and adoration. Woman being made for man, it is natural that she will be noticed by men. He naturally finds her to be attractive. However it is her responsibility to not present herself as the point of interest and attention when they come together to pray. Obviously it was not considered a sin for women to ever wear jewelry as one can see in other scriptures. Even the New Jerusalem that will one day come to earth from God, is described as a bride adorned for her husband and is described as being made of many jewels.

It is clear, however that Paul put responsibility on the woman on how she presents herself, as affects the men who see her. Her appearance gives a message and Paul tells us what that message is to be in verse 10.

10 - But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

By 'good works' we see that her godliness is evidenced by what she does. And here the writer is specifically addressing how she adorns herself.

1 Corinthians 11:7 says this - ... but the woman is the glory of the man.

The Bible is saying that there is a proper way for a woman to present herself.

A wife is the glory of her husband, and this should be apparent. She should dress in such a way that is a complement and honor to her husband, while it is evident that she is only for him. Her manner of dress should not suggest that she is eliciting the attention of other males in an inappropriate manner.

Women can protest and argue all day long that they are not responsible for how men think. They can say, that a man is responsible for his own thoughts and feelings. But that is not what the Bible has to say.

There is a way to adorn oneself, that will 'become' a woman professing godliness with good works.

This word 'becometh' is (Grk.) - prepo; to ... (be conspicuous), that is, (by implication) to be suitable or proper ...

professing is (Grk.) - epaggello; to announce upon (reflex.), that is, (by implication) to engage to do something, to assert something respecting oneself: - profess, (make) promise

godliness is (Grk.) - theosebeia; devoutness, that is, piety: - godliness.

piety = 1. Veneration or reverence of the Supreme Being, and love of his character; loving obedience to the will of God, and earnest devotion to his service. [1913 Webster]

Women of God, we are to adorn ourselves in a manner that makes it clear to the world - is absolutely conspicuous, that we assert, that is, we clearly state that we are devoted to God, that we reverence Him, we love His character and we lovingly and willingly obey Him! Also that we live according to God's proper order as concerns our relationship to our husbands.

Yes, believe it or not, even what we wear, should evidence these facts!!

Woman will always be beautiful to man. He will always find her pleasing in his sight. This is not wrong. It is not bad. A woman is not required to somehow make this not be, by wrapping herself up in dark cloth in such a way as to conceal that she is a woman. It was God who put her breast right there in the front of her and she is not required to flatten them and make as though they do not exist. YET - she can adorn herself in a manner that is not boldly flaunting her sexuality. Her body belongs to her husband and her manner of dress should be such that that is not questionable. Her devotion is to God and her husband and this is to be evidenced by her manner of dress. This should be especially evident when in the congregation of others for prayer.

1Cor. 6:13 ... Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.

1 Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

Ephesians 5:28 So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

Ephesians 5:29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:

The scripture plainly tells us what our body is for and to whom it belongs. These facts should be apparent when anyone sees us!

A wife should present herself in a way that shows she loves her husband. Her husband should be able to be proud of his wife. She may be feminine and very lovely. But she must also show, even by how she dresses, that she is humble, that her body is not on exhibit for all to see, but rather it belongs only to her husband and to God. Her manner of dress should reflect her 'good works.'

When others see her, it is to be evident that the daughter of God, is devoted to God and her husband and that she is the glory of her husband and seeks to glorify God.

Now this may not fit into the liberal mindset of today's worldly society, that cries loudly for self expression, self liberation and self concern. But it fits perfectly into the mindset of our Lord and Savior who calls for us to put others before ourselves; who tells us to -

Matt. 16:24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

- or that is, die to self that others may be saved. And the voice of God that has told us to -

Romans 14:19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

Gal. 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Once we are truly born again, life is no longer all about ME! We become ambassadors of Jesus Christ. We represent our Lord and Savior.

It is not about self glory but GLORIFYING CHRIST!

It is not all about me being my own person but that I have been -

1 Corinthians 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

Daughters of God have been bought with a price and should glorify God in their bodies as well as in their spirit.

What is on the inside of you should be reflected on the outside. When others are in your presence they should sense your sweet spirit, the Spirit of the Lord, your humility and your reverence for your husband and God.

Now let's go to 1 Peter to see how it is explained there.

In 1Peter chapter 3, Peter addresses the issue of women's behavior including outward appearance. He is addressing married women. However again, in order to get a better perspective of these scriptures we need to look at what is written before - that is absolutely connected to those verses. You see the first word spoken, when the author begins to address the issue of women is - "likewise," - which means 'similarly'. So it is important to know what he is referring to.

SIMILAR TO WHAT?

In 1 Peter chapter 2, the apostle Paul spoke to servants, concerning how they should conduct themselves, whether their masters were good and gentle or froward ( Grk. skolios; ...fig. perverse:- crooked etc.) The word servant here means (Grk.) a fellow resident, that is, menial domestic:-(household) servant. So it is not necessarily referring to a slave, but could even be a hired servant. Also notice that he is not addressing whether or not the servant should or should not, be there, should or should not look for a position elsewhere. It might even be an indentured servant who is working off a debt. But what he speaks of is - how to behave while you are in your particular master's service.

Paul lays out the attitude of being subject, or obedient and doing what is right in the sight of God, even when the one you are serving is not. Then he goes on to give the reason - "For" in the Greek this means - properly assigning a reason to ...

The writer is now going to tell you why you should do this. The reason is -

21 For hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that YE SHOULD follow in his steps:

He tells them they have been called to follow in the steps of Christ.

WHAT STEPS?

The first one he mentions is Christ's suffering for us. The goes on -

22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth.

23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:

Pause here and notice a few things. Even in the midst of mistreatment Jesus did not sin and no guile was found in his mouth. Guile here means - a trick (bait) ... He did not speak deceitfully in any manner.

What he did do was to commit himself to 'him' (God) who judges righteously. No mater what Jesus' abusers and oppressors said or did concerning him, he knew he was ultimately in the hands of God, who knew the truth and would judge the matter and judge righteously. Those who worked against him would have to answer to God!

24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

Jesus bore our sins in his own body for a purpose. The purpose we are told of here, is that we could be dead to sins and live righteously. He already paid the price to give you the power and the means to live righteously, without sin and do what is here being required of you! You were healed, physically, mentally and spiritually and now you are able to live at a higher level than the man you work for on earth.

If then the servant committed himself to God, as did Jesus, who had bore his sins on the tree, he would not only be a witness to his master, of Jesus himself and the power of God that enables a man to do right in the face of adversity and abuse, but that servant could have the assurance that by the stripes of Jesus he had been healed. Because of the work of Jesus he would be healed no matter what wrongs were inflicted upon him!

He was speaking to servants, but these were men who had once been sinners themselves, but who were now born again. They could, by their lives, be examples to their masters of the life of Christ and the life they too could have in Him!

24. For (why? - because - ) ye were as sheep going astray, but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.

You were not always going the right way yourselves. You needed a savior just as your masters do. Your life can be a witness of the change Christ can make and the power he can give to live holy and at peace in the face of uncomfortable situations.

He died that you could live, now you can die to self that others may live!

WHAT CAN THIS POSSIBLY HAVE TO DO WITH WOMEN AND MODESTY?

EVERYTHING!

LOOK AND SEE!!

The next verse begins Chapter three, verse one with the word - 'LIKEWISE' - Similarly to what I have just told you that Jesus did, in committing himself to God. Similarly to the instructions just given to servants to be subject to their own masters and how they were to live as examples of Christ. According to the power he has given you by the price he paid, to free you from sin, heal you in every way and empower you to live righteously and selflessly - as he did - LIKEWISE - SIMILARLY -

3:1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation ( Grk. = behavior) of the wives.

2 While they behold your chaste conversation (behavior) coupled with fear.

The word 'that' in this verse signifies the purpose of the action. Why should she do this? For the purpose of being a living example to her husband so that he can see - even when she is not quoting scripture - and possibly be won to salvation!

WHAT WILL HE SEE? Her 'chaste' behavior.

Chaste here means (Grk.) prop. clean, that is, (figuratively) innocent, modest, perfect:-chaste, clean, pure.

This is what he will 'behold'.

This word - behold - has more meaning than just to have 'seen' a thing. This word means - to inspect, i.e. watch:- behold.

Inspect means 1. To look upon; to view closely and critically, esp. in order to ascertain quality or condition, to detect errors, etc., to examine; to scrutinize; to investigate; as, to inspect conduct. [1913 Webster]

Clearly the Bible is making known the importance of what a woman's husband sees. The behavior of his wife is going to be watched, viewed closely and critically, even scrutinized, in order to ascertain the quality and condition.

Notice that the attitude that scripture lets us know we should have, is not one that says - "he shouldn't be looking at me! Let him figure it out for himself! NO! It makes it abundantly clear that the wife WILL be watched and whether or not she is an example of the life of Christ, may make the difference in whether or not he turns his life over to Christ.

Also notice that he beholds her behavior with fear. (coupled with fear) I do not believe this means that the woman is afraid, but more likely that the godly behavior seen in the wife, being a light shining on his darkness, causes him to fear as he sees his own condition.

It has been said that men are very visual. They are greatly affected by what they see with their eyes. Perhaps this is why Peter takes his instructions a step further. And here again we approach the issue of - modesty.

Speaking of the wives -

3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

5 For (here is that word again which denotes the reason for the thing - because-) after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands.

We live in a day when things that are old fashioned are laughed at, and people are always wanting God to do a 'new' thing. Don't look back - look ahead! But this is not the message Peter is giving. He is making it known that the women of older days did something that the women of today should emulate. What they were doing had a purpose that would be good for women today to understand.

Women who were holy, who trusted God, who were in subjection to their own husbands (not other women's husbands) adorned themselves on the inside and it could be seen on the outside!

The word 'adorning' here, is, in the Greek, kosmos; orderly arrangement, that is, decoration; ...

In verse 3 when the writer speaks of what the adorning should not consist of, he mentions "putting on of apparel" Obviously he is not saying that wives should never wear clothes, thus he is not likely suggesting women can never braid their hair or wear gold. But he is making the point that she should decorate, so to speak, her heart. The thing about her that should be attractive is her heart. No amount of outward ornament will present the picture of godliness or honor for a spouse, if godliness is not within her. These things come from within and shine through the window of the soul. They are seen but also felt by the meek and quiet spirit.

The word 'meek' in the Greek is - praus; mold, that is, humble:-meek.

The word quiet is - hesuchios; ... (by impl.) still (undisturbed, undisturbing):-peaceable, quiet.

A godly woman will not appear arrogant or domineering, for she will be humble, realizing that all she is and all she has comes from the Lord.

Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

What is in the heart of a godly woman will be seen on the outside and it will reflect her submissive heart toward her God and her husband

This is not saying a woman cannot have a bubbly or fun loving personality. It is not saying she has to fade into the wallpaper. It is not saying she cannot converse with others, including men, nor is it saying she cannot be a partner with her husband and share with him her true opinions and insights. But in all she does her humility, her confidence in God being in control, and her respect for her husband should be apparent. Her spirit should obviously be at peace.

What is on the inside of women professing godliness with good works, should be reflected by the way they dress - by their outward appearance.

This is what we are taught in the scriptures by the Almighty God who changes not!

The world is very aware of the effects of appearance. They understand that clothing makes a statement that is read by those who see us. Consider some of the types of statements that are made at such events as the Grammy Awards -

Speaking of fashion one writer said that they believed in - a healthy mix of naughty and nice.

"This embellished sweetheart gown (worn with a Cuyana bracelet and an H. Stern ring) is just the right mix of edgy and flattering."

"In her usual elegant manner, Taylor Swift sparkles in her tasteful, yet sexy, Zuhair Murad gown at the 2012 Grammys."

(So and so - ) "says she wanted a Grammy look that was 'simple', 'sexy,' and 'gangster.'"

(So and so) "was regal in a floral Valentino"

"The embroidered black lace may have looked innocent enough, but that keyhole of cleavage and slit to the hip were pushing the bounds -- in terms of propriety, yes, but mostly taste."

"There is nothing sexier than (so and so-) in that red-hot gown by fashion insider favorite (...). At first glance, the cross-front style didn't seem to reveal too much. But upon further inspection, the gossamer-like fabric hinted at everything. With ... soft, wavy hairstyle and minimal makeup, it was perfection."

Notice such words as - edgy, sexy, gangster, regal, innocent, pushing the bounds ... of propriety, hinted.

Yes the world knows, that a book is known by it's cover. Christian women should not play naive, or let the enemy deceive them to believe that they have no responsibility concerning how their appearance affects others.

Rom. 14:13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.

4348 = proskomma (Strong's) ...fig. occasion of appostasy:-offence, stumbling (-block, [stone]).)

The Word of God would not tell us - not - to do a thing that we could not do. The fact is that the woman was made in a fashion that is attractive to the male. This is clear in scripture where the physical aspects of the woman are spoken of as pleasurable, attracting and satisfying to man.

Yet a woman professing godliness is not to adorn herself in a manner that is suggestive nor domineering; a manner that suggests she is looking for or attempting to attract immodest thoughts in men that are not her husband, nor in a way that does not glorify God. To the contrary she is instructed to glorify God in her body.

Yes a woman can be the cause of a brother stumbling. Yet we are told -

1 John 2:10 He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him.

Paul the apostle would not even eat meat if doing so would cause his brother to stumble (because of ceremonial offering of meat to idols).

1 Cor. 8:13 Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.

Scriptures give a serious warning to the one responsible for another's stumbling!

Luke 17:1 Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!

offences = (Strong's) 4625 (Luke 17:1, Rom.16:7) skandalon,("scandal"; ...that is, a snare (fig. cause of displeasure or sin): occasion to fall (of stumbling). offence, thing that offends, stumblingblock.

We are even instructed to avoid people who cause offences contrary to the doctrine that has been learned by the Word of God.

Rom. 16:7 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

It would be good for daughters of Gods, to consider these scriptures pertaining to and instructing modesty, very carefully and prayerfully, then ask God how to apply it in their individual lives.

Let God guide you in ALL your behaviors and live your life in such a way as to portray God, the godliness that comes from Him, and the proper relationship of honor and faithfulness to your own husband.

Women will always be beautiful to men, but how we present ourselves in fashion and attitude will determine whether we elicit respect for ourselves, our husbands and the God we serve, or whether we elicit vulgar attitudes and disrespect for what is supposed to belong to God Himself.

Daughters of God, let your mind be to glorify God. Let your mouth glorify God and let your behavior glorify God!

Represent the God you serve and the husband whose glory you are in a way that testifies to the holiness of God
Women will always love beautiful things. Some women like bright and bold colors. Others prefer pastels. There is nothing in scripture against women wearing lovely clothing. But a daughter of God should at all times represent purity and holiness. Nothing she wears should distract from the light of God that is to shine in her life.

Rom. 15:6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

1Peter 2:12 Having your conversation (behavior) honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

1 Cor. 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

1Peter 4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

The end