questions about modesty

The Scriptures expressly state the proper Biblical adornment standard is "modest apparel" (1 Timothy 2:9). Some may try to advocate this verse solely applies to "women," but it begins with the words, "In like manner," and the previous verse is speaking of "men." Webster's Twenty-First Century Dictionary defines "modest" as "avoiding self-exposure." Therefore, modesty for men is as necessary as it is for women. To avoid "self-exposure" would prevent the wearing of shorts, sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or obviously, shirtlessness, as each of these would be unable to meet the standard of "avoiding self-exposure."

The same principle would apply to women. Again, the standard is "modest apparel." This would preclude shorts, short skirts, tops too low, sleeveless shirts, or sleeveless dresses. Tight-fitting clothing is also not appropriate for "women professing godliness" (1 Timothy 2:10). 

Concerning women wearing slacks, or pants, these are items of men's apparel and expressly taught by the Bible as an improper manner of dress for women. Deuteronomy 22:5 clearly states, "The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man." Some would attempt to discount this truth by advocating that it was a part of the Mosaic Law, but that is not completely accurate. It is a part of the moral law that was incorporated within the Levitical Law, but this moral principle both preceded the Old Testament Levitical Law and is applicable subsequent to it, or succeeding it. It is a timeless moral law that applies in all ages

Earl R. Borders

From the  July 2023 issue of The Gospel Trumpeter