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One of the main criticisms levelled at believers is their two-facedness in civil life.

Clothes aren't suppose to matter, as Jesus and the Epistles make clear.  Clothes really don't matter (as long as you are wearing some).    ::)

Practically, tho, that gets us into trouble already.

A secular example:   Several years ago an article in The New Yorker profiled a successful Hollywood movie producer.  He'd produced a number of fairly big hits over the last 25 years.

One of the producer's character traits, however, and one which got him into trouble, was that he dressed how he liked, even when going to social functions, business deals, etc.  He got into trouble because his collegues, in the same business circles, had to wear formal attire--suits, tie, ect.--yet he would wear jeans, open collar, frizzed up hair.

His collegues resented this.

That's just a secular example--the offender was not touted as a Christian, etc.  He was just "eccentric".  And people didn't like him for it.  

So if Christians don't concern themselves with their attire, then, for the example above's simple practical reason, we can't really participate actively in society--since much of business even today is still conducted formally--in attire that conforms to the expectations of others.  A policeman has to.  Many other jobs, professions, etc., too.

   
The secular working world resents it when they have to conform, just in order to keep their job, if you don't have to.

And isn't that understandable?

But aren't we being hypocritical?

Many jobs do require certain attire. Following Christ isn't one of those.  :)

The problem that I have with a 'dress code' at a church is that it excludes so many and seems to say that God is more interested in our outward appearance than our hearts- which is unscriptural.  :)

If we must 'dress' for church then the poor aren't allowed. And those who have given up earthly 'things' to follow Christ wouldn't be allowed. And Christ wouldn't be allowed. I don't recall ever reading in the Bible where Christ was dressed in the finery of the Pharisees.

I suppose it depends on which segment of society God has called you to witness to.  :-\

An example from a Baptist site:
"When we send people overseas as missionaries, we tell them to spend time learning the culture so they can understand the people they are ministering to. That is just as important when dealing with cowboys."
___The Western-heritage culture is driven by several factors, he said, including interest in arena activities such as barrel racing and team roping, a great love for open spaces, an appreciation of country music and a dress code of boots, jeans and cowboy hats.
___"To have a work planted that is going to appeal to these people, we have to know what the barriers are and refuse to let those barriers be erected," he continued.
___Barriers can start with the pastor, Johnson said.
___"The pastor has to be a cowboy. Cowboys connect with cowboys. Cowboys know cowboys. They have a network, but you have to be a part of the network to get into the network."
___A cowboy mindset may be the most important factor, Nolen explained. "The start-up pastor has to have a great love and respect for Western culture and values."
___Those values include being non-judgmental, a love for simplicity and a country gospel without a lot of embellishment.
___"They also must focus on empowering men and women to do more than just sit in a pew," he added. "These are people who are used to doing things."


___"Western-heritage people listen to a lot of country music and in much of it is an underlying belief in God," he explained. "Because of that, they know about God; they just don't know how to know God. When people from the Western culture come to these cowboy churches, many of them are hearing the gospel for the first time. They find out that God is not out to get them but loves them very much."




http://www.baptiststandard.com/2003/3_10/pages/cowboychurch.html (http://www.baptiststandard.com/2003/3_10/pages/cowboychurch.html)

I believe that, like the majority of God's Word, the verses regarding clothing are focused primarily on the heart attitude of the reader. In verses such as

Matthew 6:31  Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

and

Luke 16:19  There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:.... etc etc ( rich man and Lazarus story)

the key point in relation to this discussion is that worldy goods should not be our focus. If something becomes an idol to you, then it is a problem and needs to be repented of, or perhaps if it causes someone else to stumble in their walk with God, then its a problem. I don't believe that God is saying "all Christians must be scruffy and not care what they look like".  :)

 It strikes me also that these days, many younger Christians deliberately try to dress differently to their peers to set themselves apart. This to me is simply an inverted form of the sin of pride. Wanting people to take notice of you because you are in some way special.. above them.. you know who i mean.. the different colour shoes, pink and green hair, baggy jeans and lots of hippy jewelery type. Yes.. them.  :D

If your heart attitude toward God is right, then you are less likely to sin in any way.. dress included. On the point of dressing up for church.... well thats an interesting one.

I personally don't "make an effort" to look any different to how I would normally, yet at the same time I would feel wrong leading worship if I came to church in tattered jeans and big boots... I'm not sure why. I think it has to do with respect and reverance for God in some obscure way... but as you rightly say, God looks at whats inside. I think its an issue for ones own conscience. Also remembering, that if, as in my case, there are members of your congregation who would frown upon "sloppy dressers" leading worship or preaching, that we must not cause others to stumble. If you have to wear a suit to make them hear the message, then so be it.

Sorry long post.

Hmmmmm.... But what does the Bible say?
James 2
1   My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
2   For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;
3   And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:
4   Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?


Matthew 6:
25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?

The problem with 'dressing to worship' is that it limits your worship.  "Respect and reverance" for my Saviour is not limited by my wardrobe.  :)

when the message needs a suit  its the wrong message  :(

Perhaps we have misunderstood each other. I agree with what you're saying. However, I don't believe that deliberately looking respectable and smart when leading worship or preaching makes you less effective.

I believe its important not to allow a sense of false humility to develop. It seems that some people deliberately dress down in order to underline the fact that you dont have to dress up. :)

My comment about the suit was perhaps a little bit of an extreme example. My point was that some people view "dressing down" as not giving God your best. I personally am happy to listen to any preacher who has a word from God, and it would be fantastic if people paid no attention to appearances. They do though.

LOL  false humility?  

There is no right way to say "dress up for God`s sake"

because that is in itself is a contradiction to all that God is.

What does 'smart' look like?

I agree. Deliberately dressing 'down' or 'up' would fall into that category.

And since they do, maybe the pastor should be preparing sermons on what Scripture says about it.  :)

What does 'smart' look like?   :-X




oh my!

I'm not saying that we have to dress up. I never said that. I totally agree with you, and all the passages that have been quoted. I'm just throwing in some ideas.. when I mentioned the false humility, I meant what i said. I've seen this in some churches. It almost becomes a competition to show who is the most humble. Unfortunately people are sinful and the heart is wicked and will trap you in all sorts of subtle sins, just when people think they are getting somewhere.  :)

A slight variation on this theme is the popular thinking of younger christians who dye thair hair pink and green and wear chains and generally look like punk rockers. hehe Its inverted pride. "hey look at me, I'm different.. I'm cool.. you dont have to look all posh to be a christian".

I don't want you to misunderstand me... I'm just simply presenting the other side of the coin.

Inverted pride?   Judging must be developing a new and improved vocabulary.  ::)

Ever consider some 'younger christians' may have figured out whats really important?   The word "pride" can be found on both sides of that  coin.  

Here's a thought:
"The way to reach out to people is not to become more like the world. But to be seen to be different from the world."
 ;)

Seriously though, I'd rather see unusual hair colors and clothing than all the latest styles!  :-X Skin-tight, stretch, hip-huggers; skin-tight, stretch, low cut, midriff baring tops? That just ain't fashion!  ;) And it isn't modest, either!

LOL! Very clever :) I wonder who said that? heheh

Different in a good way. hehe Yeah you're right though, that is better than some things. I suppose its more just my personal reaction towards stuff that i see going on around me... england has generally become a very spiritually confused nation. What Paul called "another gospel" is rampant over here. Kinda makes you more alert to subtle things i suppose. Folks here will have to forgive my forthrightness. hehe

I'm pleased someone sees part of what I'm getting at. In no way do I believe that "dressing up" makes us more or less effective as Christians, or more or less acceptable in God's sight. Like silver said, its a question of respect and effort. Its a personal thing. But what Silver mentioned about the way people wore "rock t shirts" was a good example of the teen culture that has invaded church these days. As you might have gathered I have a great dislike for the spirit of this age.. the age of compromise, at least thats how i see it. I wonder how many times I've seen teenagers wearing t shirts promoting some heavy metal band in a church service. A band that dishonours God and is an abomination in His sight.

Wow, I really do sound like an old man don't I? :) lol

The reason that "teen culture" and all that goes along with it, gets to me so much, is because I see all its effects in churches in my area all the time.  They aren't positive effects either. It seems to just go another step towards the permissiveness towards sin.

But ok the original thread was a lighthearted one about clothes.. so.. lol I wont get sidetracked here.

What if your *best* doesn't meet the standards of *good enough* for the rest of the congregation?  ???

Should a believer not attend services until they have the finery that the congregation deems acceptable? Or do we patronizingly accept them until they *can do better*?  ???

Why is it that we KNOW that Christ says clothes don't matter but we say, "I think... and I believe..."  ???

Are those that are better dressed more saved?  ???

Are we to only worship on only ONE morning?  ???

Must we also *dress-up* in our "prayer closet"?  ???

What of those Christians in other countries who are imprisoned for sharing the Good News? Are they dressed-up enough for Christ?  ???

Are we really worshipping on Sunday morning if we're worried about the clothing of others?  ???

Matthew 23:27-28
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.

Sounds like the outside just isn't what's important!  ;)

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved,
clothe yourselves with
compassion,
kindness,
humility,
gentleness and
patience.

 :)

I seen what you were "getting at" from your first post, seeing doesnt mean agreeing  ;)

If its as you say: "its a question of respect and effort. Its a personal thing" , then why do we then make it our personal business how others dress   ???

No you dont sound like an old man. (I am perfectly old fashioned according to my teens   ::) )  BUT you do sound like you are talking out of both sides of your mouth  :P

I have to wonder why its OK for "good" christian men and women to dye thier hair black or whatever "accceptable" color, but its just WRONG if  someone chooses to go blue or pink  ???

I wonder why we`ve been sticking earrings in our ears for centuries, yet stick it some other place and our standing before God is questioned  ???

I wonder why we presume to decide what is "acceptable" in attire  ???  When did that stop being Gods judement call, and become ours  ???  

Truth as I see it is, if we spent as much time examining ourselves as we really need to, we wouldnt be troubling ourselves much over what someone else "looks" like.

"teen culture" and all that goes along with it, gets to me so much, is because I see all its effects in churches"

I`m sorry that made me laugh!  If the teen culture is "effecting" the church, then the "church" needs examined to see if theres any life changing power of God within its fellowship,  thats not something the teens are responsible for!

"What bothers me about the church today is that people intentionally dress down "

Funny, what bothers me is that people intentionally dress up!  ;D


"But what is this saying to the Lord?"

It`s saying I believe your Word Lord, that I can come to you just as I am, that giving you my "best" has nothing to do with my apparel, for they are all as much rags as my righteousness!

It’s not about our ‘best’ meeting the standards of anybody; it’s about respecting the Lord with the best of our ability.

But the Bible establishes that our *best* has nothing to do with our attire.  :)
So it really is about dressing to impress those that attend.  ;)
1 Samuel 16:7  But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth;
for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

I do follow what you guys are saying. I was raised in the same man-made traditions. :) But I have noticed that the more affluent the area, the more *dressing up* that is expected.

Sincereheart, you said, “the outside just isn't what's important,” I understand why you say that because God sees the heart.  But also realize that the outside is a reflection of the inside if it’s done intentionally, and Christians today intentionally dress down because they think they have a right to do it in an age of grace.  In reality, this is hurting the church more than helping it, but that’s another topic.

Or maybe they just dress the way they do because they focus on what's important - and it's NOT the clothing.  :)
I am curious as to how you *know* the thoughts of others?

Here’s another thought:  There are many people who dress very nice for their job during the week, but when it comes to Sunday morning they intentionally dress down.  When I hear them talk about it they say, “Well I have to play dress up all week, I don’t want to do it on Sunday too.”  But what is this saying to the Lord?  That the person’s work is more important and more respected than the God who gave them life?  Because that’s exactly what their actions are saying.  

Yes, there are *many* who are required to dress a certain way for their jobs.
Matthew 22:21
Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.

"Clothes" are NOT the things of God.  :)

My husband is a retired Marine. According to your logic, he SHOULD have worn camouflage when he attended church on active duty? Now that he's retired, he works full-time and wears jeans to work. So he SHOULD wear jeans?  ??? Or do you mean that those that are required to dress-up for work are required to dress up to worship?  :-\ Or maybe those that aren't required to dress-up for work should dress-up for services even though God doesn't require it?  :-\

I'm really not trying to be difficult.  ;) But I have attended 'churches' all over and have been amazed at what man requires of people that God doesn't.  :)

Wouldn't it be an amazing thing if we just looked at those unkempt people and those teen things and see them the way God does?

I met the wife of a pastor who thought overalls were a sin. Didn't matter if they were velvet or denim. It's a sin and that's that.  ::) Yet, this particular woman weighed over 300 pounds and was literally the first in line at 'eating meetings' and her manners were atrocious.  :-X But she thought dressing up with clothes from Wal-Mart made her more spiritual. The Bible covers gluttony and clothing.
She dismissed it all because she *thought*...... :-X

Another area we were stationed in was a high-dollar area. The people there thought clothes from Wal-Mart were an insult to God. So you had to spend X number of dollars and have X brand to avoid sinning.  ::)

Where does it all end? Why can't God's word suffice?  :-\
 

Who? Adam and Eve
What they wore: Nothing

Genesis 2:25 and 3:7, 21
When God first made people, they didn’t wear any clothes - they didn’t need to. They lived in a warm climate and because there was no sin they didn’t feel ashamed about being naked. God had created them perfect; it wasn’t until they disobeyed God that they felt ashamed of their bodies. The first clothes were made from leaves, until God made them some more permanent garments from animal skins. God made us clothes to cover our shame, not to improve the way we look.

According to some of you, God SHOULD have FASHIONED something a little better, leaves dont make the BEST clothes!

Who? King David
What he wore: Linen ephod

2 Samuel 6:12-22
David was a man who was totally in love with God. He was so excited about God’s presence coming into his town that he worshipped God, dancing with all of his strength wearing only an ephod (the undergarments of a priest), rather than the flash royal gears he could have worn. David wasn’t at all concerned with what people thought of him; he was totally focused on praising God. David’s wife, Michal, was not at all impressed and she laid into him about it. She was thinking only of how David’s appearance might reflect on her instead of rejoicing in God’s blessing on their city. For her pride and her judgement of David, God did not let her have any children after that (doesn’t sound like she would have been a very good mum anyway!) David was more interested in what God thought than the people around him.

According to some of you, David should have been utterly ASHAMED before God and all His people!

Who? John the Baptist
What he wore: Camel hair

Matthew 3:4
John the Baptist was the man God called to pave the way for Jesus coming to earth. John lived in the desert, ate locusts and wore crusty clothes made of camel hair. John didn’t care about his clothes or what he looked like - he cared about people turning away from sin and back to God. And the people didn’t care about John’s clothes - they flocked to him in droves to hear him preach and to be baptised by him. John attracted people by the quality of his life and the integrity of his speech rather than by his appearance.

According to some of you, John should have went home and got DRESSED UP before he dared stand in a pulpit!

Who? Us
What we wear: Rags of righteousness
Rom 13:14  But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Still going to preach give me that showtime religion?  ;)

I have seen and heard the topic of clothes and physical appearance in every forum and every church that I have gone to.

Why are we more concerned more with the outward appearance than we are the inward appearance. It is a concern of worldly things and not spiritual that we are putting our emphasis on.

2Co 5:12  For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.

2Co 10:7  Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's.

On the other hand, do we need to look like we just finished slopping the hogs? The outer self is a reflection of the inner being and they should be in unison in Christ unless one is a hypocrite and shows substance on the exterior while being shallow in the interior.

ollie  :)

why yes ollie,  I think we can even worship WHILE slopping the hogs! ;D

The outer self is a reflection of the inner being

ah...not what Jesus said...but if that were true...what finery many poor saints  should be attired in!   ;)

The outer self is a reflection of the inner being and they should be in unison unless one is a hypocrite and shows substance on the exterior while being shallow in the interior.

Hmmmm..... Sad. While Christ walked on earth, what did He wear? I don't remember mention of Him having the finest clothing from the finest materials. Jewels sewn into the hem, maybe?  ::)
So with so much substance on the INTERIOR of Christ, why wasn't He clothed outwardly in the same fashion? I know He isn't a hypocrite.  :)

Here's a revolutionary concept:
All those who think clothing is important could maybe go out and buy a brand new wardrobe for a homeless family. Of course, the family would still be homeless - but at least they'd look nice walking the streets.  :-X

What would happen if the over-indulged used their clothing budget to actually serve the Lord? I don't mean giving away all the clothes they've outgrown while they go and buy a new warddrobe. I mean actually GIVE that money to a place that's needed? To help feed a hungry family? To give out Bibles to those who don't have one - whether saved or unsaved?

God wants our hearts. Period! He doesn't need us to parade around like peacocks and call it worshipping Him.  :-\

If how I dress is important, then I guess I can just pop on an evening gown and be the best Christian around.  :-[

Why is it that those who say it's unimportant have posted much Scripture while those that say it is, haven't posted any? :'(

AMEN!


James 2: 1-7

Sincereheart,

AMEN SISTER!!!

I would say only one thing about clothing worn to church - it should be modest, especially for women. That would obviously apply to men too. "Modest" should be a term that is applied by Christians to much more than just clothes.

A clothing contest about who has the most expensive or best looking is really pretty sad when we all know there are people who are hungry, sick, and without shelter. "Modest" could also be a term that describes what it costs to wear something when someone else is starving to death.

Love In Christ,
Tom

Psalms 119:133  Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

well the girl  done started a revolution!

I knew  someday she would!   :P

If you spend more time worrying about what to wear to church, than you do on getting there early (or on time) then I think you need some time on the knees. Myself, I like to be comfortable, and as long as what I have on is clean, then I wear what I can worship God in without fear of exposure least I should fall out in the Spirit. Save the lap robes for someone else.
As Christians, we need to not obsess with the physical; we are after all just visiting this earth, and even our bodies are put on....

Yes, modestly!  :D

1 Timothy 2:9-10
I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety,
not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes,
but with good deeds,
appropriate for women who profess to worship God.



Wow! I had never thought of this!   :-\

Thank you!  :D

Hmmmm... So is it 'modest' (i.e. 'in moderation') to spend money on new clothing while so many are in need?  :-[

Matthew 25:42-45 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
"He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'

 :'(

Sigh. So do I, but I might clean up to meet with the saints or preach/teach Jesus. I think my post is misunderstood.

My thoughts are misconstrued!

 Matthew 23:25.  "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
 26.  Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
 27.  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.
 28.  Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity."

I realize Christ is not talking of clothes here, but every thing we do should be in unity with our inner man in Christ including dress. It does not mean we have to try and outdo one another in dress. Modesty, cleanliness, and moderation should be our guide. A pure and holy heart in Christ will be reflective in all we do including dress. There are example of prostitutes being known by their dress, given in the OT.  My point being that we are judged by the unbeliever by the first impression of appearance, then actions. It is the unbeliever we are trying to reach. Paul was all things to all men in order to bring Christ to them.
We do not have to prove ourselves or should not have to to the saints in assembly. Although the assembly will be full of the puffed up well dressed hypocrite as well as the humble well dressed doer of Christ's word. Also the not so well dressed puffed up hypocrite and the not so well dressed doer of Christ's word.


Sigh, I pray I have cleared up the misunderstanding,
ollie


 

"What if your *best* doesn't meet the standards of *good enough* for the rest of the congregation?"

Then remind them of this:

 James 2:1.  "My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.
 2.  For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;
 3.  And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:
 4.  Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?
 5.  Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?
 6.  But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?"

ollie
 

Could you accept my best in Christ with my jeans almost down to my hamstrings and my shirt up around my breast? I thinking that attire scripturally has nothing to do in reflecting my best in Christ.  Would it be in accordance with establishmed scripture?

ollie

I am not talking of fine expensive clothes just for the purpose of getting attention. I am talking of clean, modest, in moderation clothing reflecting a pure, holy clean heart.  Christ probably wore the clothing of the average Jew of His time. John 19:23 tells some about His garments. They might have reflected Mary and Joseph's Jewish heritage.

Sigh, No, He isn't a hypocrite, He is the Son of God. The way, the truth, and the life. There never has been a human whose inner man matched His outer man as His did/does. He was/is sinless.

Another thought about His garments:

Mark 5:25.  "And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,
 26.  And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,
 27.  When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment.
 28.  For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.
 29.  And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.
 30.  And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes?
 31.  And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?
 32.  And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.
 33.  But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth.
 34.  And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague."
 

ollie

As far as this subject is concerned, it will never be finished being debated by Christians all over the world.  

My thoughts are:

If I was invited to visit the Queen of England, the President of the USA or our own Prime Minister, I'd wear my best.

How much more should I consider this when going to the house of worship to worship the King of Kings.

Yes,
 :)

I haven't read everyone's posts yet, so if I'm expressing what someone else already has, forgive me.  I'll just say this: a faith expressed by a suit on Sunday is a faith that remains on Sunday.  I've seen many dressed up folk that saw that as a highly important representation of what God's done in their lives.  It's God's day, in God's "house" and the feeling is that we dress our best when approaching God.  Problem:  We aren't approaching God.  We have Him in us.  We aren't coming into His house.  We are His house.  We are gathering to corporately worship Him, and what we wear is as unimportant to Him as how color coordinated we are.  I've seen a biker, clean and well kept, but with leather, jeans and long hair, that many would not want in their church.  But when I saw that man, and listened to him, I didn't see him.  I saw Jesus.  I've seen pastors dressed in suit and tie.  What I saw was a man dressed in suit and tie, not the God he preached about.  It's about time we stopped wearing our faith in our fashion, and started living the faith that's out of fashion, but attractive nonetheless.

Man looks on the outward appearance.  God looks on the heart.  I'll take my Sunday jeans, flip-flops, t-shirt and a heart transformed by the love of Jesus Christ over my former suits and ties, dress shoes and a heart not seeing, or reflecting that love.

Just a thought...

This is an excellant point. This is why my wife and I go yard selling. We can find good bargains(sometimes even brand new clothes), give money to the sellers who are usually in bad need of it and have more money left over to give to someone else that needs it. We have also used this method to help others get clothing they wouldn't have (homeless, fire victims, etc).

One of the places that we purchase from is an elderly lady that uses the proceeds to help her missionary son.

Just a thought to perhaps inspire.

I realize Christ is not talking of clothes here, but every thing we do should be in unity with our inner man in Christ including dress.
Exactly! So my problem comes when people try to dress *differently* than they normally do. They don't fool Christ- only the others in attendance!

But Shylynne has a valid point. Going by the 'unity with the inner man' standard; there are many believers who are *under-dressed*. Some of the Godliest people I have ever met have been dressed *down* by the world's standards. Yet, they were too busy walking with Christ to notice. There hearts were beautifully attired with Him. But most 'church' people would say they weren't attired correctly.

Modesty, cleanliness, and moderation should be our guide.
Agreed! Then it won't matter what the style is or what the material is!

My point being that we are judged by the unbeliever by the first impression of appearance, then actions.
And that is exactly why so many unbelievers see the hypocrisy! Not to mention the fact that believers tell them that Christ accepts them as they are but they have to dress up to worship Him.  :-[

Then remind them of this:
James 2:1.
See Page 1.  :)

Could you accept my best in Christ with my jeans almost down to my hamstrings and my shirt up around my breast? I thinking that attire scripturally has nothing to do in reflecting my best in Christ.  Would it be in accordance with establishmed scripture?
Uh.... that would be ignoring 'modesty' if taken to that extreme.  :-\ But as far as the style itself, it's a passing fad that I personally wouldn't wear. But I have seen folks wear that (with the exception that all body parts were covered) and feel that they were dressed up. Brand new clothing that they were thrilled to have. The flip-side of that is if a woman wears a formal gown to services. Not Scripturally wrong, just not what I'd wear.  :)

As far as this subject is concerned, it will never be finished being debated by Christians all over the world.

Sad but true!  :-\

My thoughts are:

If I was invited to visit the Queen of England, the President of the USA or our own Prime Minister, I'd wear my best.

How much more should I consider this when going to the house of worship to worship the King of Kings.

And that's fine for you to make that personal choice. I, however, would wear my usual attire to meet the QoE or Bush (who would most likely be in jeans ;)) or anyone else. If I'm good enough for the King of Kings -just as I am- then I'm sure not going to stress over any human. They're just people - same as we are. :)

Amen!  :D And beautifully stated!

Definitely inspirational!  :D

This whole subject just breaks my heart!  :-[

The phrase "wolf in sheep's clothing" keeps coming to mind.  :-\

Does anyone realize that their *best* is NOT good enough? It is only through the righteousness of Christ that we are saved! No matter how much we spend on clothes, no matter what styles we buy, no matter what we wear, we will never be worthy! Christ wants our hearts! If our hearts are clean before Him then nothing else matters! If we worry about what we wear, what will happen when persecution comes? What if we are wearing prison garb yet stood strong in our faith? Will we not be dressed well enough for Him? Or will be better dressed than all the church-goers? :'(

Worship is NOT a Sunday morning only thing. Being honest with ourselves might just be the first step to being honest with Christ!

http://www.nlbchapel.org/clothing.htm

I'm sorry but you wouldn't.  There's definitely a dress code and it would be on the invitation and if you didn't abide by that, you wouldn't be allowed in.

It's very true that God looks at the heart and man looks at the outward appearance.  I would never say differently but I still think that we should dress as if worshipping the King of Kings.  

Personally, if they didn't like the way I dress I wouldn't see them and it wouldn't bother me at all.



Don't we worship Him everyday, all day and all night long? I know that I do.

Guess having been married to a fellow who was in the RUC where boots were spit and polished daily and then later where he was a Lt. in the 48th Highlanders where brass had to be polished, belts polished, hair cut a certain way, etc. I find it just normal to have a dress code for certain events and when meeting specific people.  Doesn't bother me at all.  Maybe it's kind of British.  I don't know.   ???



Yes, you're quite correct but we have a Worship service weekly where we have the Breaking of Bread and the wine/grape juice and that is what I was speaking of.




As I said in my first post, this subject I don't think will ever be solved and maybe our speaking of it is really wasting our energy and words on something "unsolvable".

"Blest be the Tie that Binds."   ;D

"Being dressed in Christ-likeness is how we  bring honour to Him."

AMEN!

Great message, thanks Pilgrim!

And if the king of kings cared about what I wore (which He says He does`nt)  and I had nothing befitting to wear to stand before the king of kings (which I dont) what then  ???  

Sorry Patzt as much as I love the Highlanders, normal and traditional dont make it scriptural  ;)

I don't mean to sound like I am putting anyone down for "dressing-up" for services. I am just saying that it is an unimportant issue and as long as people are modestly dressed it should not be an issue in churches. The important thing is to get them in to hear the Word of God.

Exactly!  

I think that the word "modestly" is a good word!  ;o)  I've seen many who weren't who knew better.


It's great that we can discuss here with no hurt feelings.  On many sites, you couldn't.  

At last somone gets the point!

Hi Shylynne,

Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. When I first saw this article ( http://www.nlbchapel.org/clothing.htm ) I put off reading it for many months thinking it would be boring. I finally read it one day and liked it so much I contacted the author for permission to put it on “New Life Bible Chapel’s” web site. The day after I posted it on our site a woman who is a believer sent me an e-mail expressing her delight in the article. Apparently she and her family were victims of those who insisted on applying unbiblical man made dress codes on those who attended the meeting she once went to.  I always found it strange that people would put such importance on outward appearances yet neglect the inner beauty that God desires in an individual. This attitude must be part of corrupt human nature seeing that it is an age old problem that did not originate with God but with lost religious souls. The Pharisees were of this type and our Lord rebuked them for it.

Mat 23:25 “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. 26  Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. 27  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. 28  Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.”
   
Pilgrim

I'm sorry but I would.  :) Meeting the QoE isn't high on my list of "to-do's". If the QoE ever decides to invite me to meet her and there's a dress code, then I suppose I just must RSVP that I won't meet the dress code and will have to pass.  ;)

Did you read what you wrote?  :)
"It's very true that God looks at the heart and man looks at the outward appearance.  I would never say differently but I still think....."
 God says differently but I still say.... :-X

Amen sincereheart, there is only one who, I will bow to as well. The Lord, Jesus Christ, I will no bow to another.

At first read I agreed with this. And for the most part I still do. As long as the *dressing up* isn't of the double-minded kind; those who *dress-up* to worship whether in public or in private! If they only dress-up when others will see then it's not really for extra reverance..... ;)

And again, I should always add the *modesty* part. It's Scriptural and I just assumed that everyone was on the same page with that one.  :-X

Then what? Then you worry about your walk with Christ!  ;) He doesn't care about how youre clothing looks! A wise woman once reminded me that our hearts are the altar!  ;)

And with the heart for Christ that you have, you are exceptionally well-dressed!  :D

I don't mean to butt in here, but I wanted to say "Thank you!", also! Great article based on Scripture!  :D

You said it, Brother!  :D

And on a lighter note, Pat, you may want to check out which season it is before you meet the President!  ;)

(http://groups.msn.com/_Secure/0TAAAAJ8XN5*KMQvcEZqXoeZ4gtiAWuCRa2UATk*VX2EKF9gE!a0WoVxREJcAjip4IWtp*SqHVlLg1nu8BEw4cWXZnv3p5BGtEc6rzeqWNRmNNA2WhASryA/GWB_HuntPhoto.jpg?dc=4675500370573656313)

Hello sincereheart,

Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.  Here is what Jesus said of John the Baptist:

Mat 11:11 “Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”

If John the Baptist could be here today I wonder how many churches would not allow him to even enter because of his attire?

Mat 3:4 “And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.”

Pilgrim

Interesting, a camels hair coat with a leather belt might be expensive today and if worn to the assembly of the saints, considered a bit much.  ;)

The times and passing years do change ones perception of worldly things.

ollie

Well, there's five pages here now.  So what's the consensus??

It appears the one thing that preceeds clothing in everyones post is...."worship God".

Grace and Peace!

Amen!

The clothes we wear are not important in God's purpose. As long as we are modest about raiment. The Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are the sons of God through Christ is what should be seen by others.

ollie

Pam said it best...

 (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v11/Anonymous_Pam/Smileys/SinkingSmiley.gif)

Preach it Sis!   :)

1Cr 9:19
For though I be free from all [men], yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.
20
And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;
21
To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.
22
To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all [men], that I might by all means save some.
23
And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with [you].

Having been many places many times, and seen many different people, I can only say:

When I go to a street mission, I go in jeans and shirt (sometimes a t if it's hot).

When I go to an Indian res mission, I go in jeans, boots, and western shirt with a vest.

When I go to a community wide Thanksgiving service, I wear a suit and tie.

When I go to a church in Bullhead City AZ in the middle of August, I wear shorts (so does everyone else.....130+ temps).

To wear, or not to wear is not based on the freedom we have, or what we perceive as God's notion of what we should or shouldn't dress like....but in what HE wants accomplished among the people HE has sent us to.  

Well stated, as usual, Evangelist. We shouldn't let clothing become a wedge between us and those Christ is using us to reach.  :)

What about when assembling with the believers?  ???

Which believers? The ones under the bridge, or the those in Peru? Or maybe the Samoans, or the 7 Clan People in 4 Corners, NM?  ;)

LOL!

Let me re-phrase that.... :P

No, maybe not.  :-\
Because all believers should have the same dress code and it shouldn't have a thing to do with the physical attire.  :)

All believers, should dress as their custom. Thanks for the 4 corners area, as I live in the 4 corners area. Here we dress more in a country western style. I don't kow about the big city slickers, as I live in a small country town. I know in the past, my youth, in L.A. folks dressed in suits and ties. We dress nice, but are not overly dressed. The style, doesn't matter to us in the mountians. What does matter, is being clean for Church.

Resting in the Lord's arms.
Bob

different jobs require different clothes.


do you keep money in a bank?


would you keep you money in a bank where all the personnel walked around in shorts and sandles??


   ???

Or a waitress who brought your din-din bearfoot - oops, I meant barefoot?

   :-\

Yes. I banked at a bank in Hawaii were all employees wore shorts and sandals. One of the best banks I ever had the pleasure of doing business with.  My money was very well taken care of. I don't trust bankers that wear $500.00+ suits or dresses. They do get that money for those expensive clothes from somewhere.

Yes. My waitress (wife) always serves din-din barefoot and sometimes bearfooted. It doesn't change the taste of the food at all.   :D   ;D

Nope, I keep it at home in a safe. I don't trust banks, after getting "ripped off" by a bank. I got the money back later but, the damage had been done.

Resting in the Lord's arms.
Bob

I am not Religious, I wear clean and neat clothes

"There's a book entitled Dress for Success.  Executives at IBM really believe in that.  They require their people to dress in a certain way. Jesus in His carpenter's apron, Jesus girded with a towel, hardly seem dressed for success.
You see someone who is very meticulous about his appearance and you know that here is someone who is concerned about detail.  You see a person who is careless about his appearance and you know this is someone whose mind is on larger things and gives little thought to details."

   "Now see the most wonderful thing of all. "There followed him, riding upon white horses, men and women dressed in fine linen, white and clean."  Where did they get those robes?  You know. He put His robe on them - His robe of righteousness, His robe of purity, His robe of sinlessness.  He put His robe on them!  He puts His robe on us!  Over the rags of our self-righteousness - over the filth of our sin - over the twisted deformity of our broken lives!  He puts His robe on us!"

The Clothes of Christ -
http://www.dabar.org/Homiletics/Above/Ch7.htm

Zec 3:4  And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.

LOL  Nope, I'm finished.  Said enough.  ;D  I'll just continue doing what I'm doing.  No one in here convinced me to change or that I was wrong in my thinking and I didn't convince anyone differently so...

God bless you all,

Pat

"To crave greater prestige, greater notoriety, greater visibility is to embrace compromise after compromise until we have thoroughly falsified ourselves, a phoney of the phoneys."
 
"It is plain that Christians are those who, in faith, have put on Jesus Christ himself. As we put on him we put on that renewed human nature which he is and which he fits onto us; as all of this happens the image of God, in which we were created but which has become scratched and marred and defaced -- this image of God is re-engraved and now stands out unmistakably."

"If this is really what has happened (and what more could happen?), what is the result of our having put on Christ?"

 "The first result is startling; the first result is so public, so notorious, so blatant that it can be observed and noted without contradiction even by those who make no profession of faith at all. The first result is that the barriers throughout the world which divide, isolate and alienate human beings from each other are crumbled. "Here there cannot be Greek or Jew", says Paul, "...nor barbarian, Scythian, slave or free person; but Christ is all and in all."  amen!

http://www.victorshepherd.on.ca/Sermons/What%20Does%20It%20Mean%20To%20Put%20On%20The%20Lord%20Jesus%20Christ.htm

God never once said "dress up for me"
What He said was "Let me dress you up"

Twisting Gods words was satans first act of deceit.
Allowing himself to be deceived caused man to fall into sin.
Believing what God said/versus satan, about one piece of fruit did`nt seem all that important. Believing what God says/versus man about clothes does`nt seem all that important either. Or does it?

2Ti 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work.

DW:

My wife has a vest made and given to her by Vera Redbird (don't know if you know her). Husbands name is Don....I believe they live up around the 4 corners somewhere. We met them when we were up in the White Mountains in Az.

The vest is doeskin, and beaded on the back with a very large bird rising out of a circle. Beadwork on the front pockets are also birds rising. She explained it as indicating that Bev (my wife) was a "child of the light."

Anyway, it's beautiful....they (the Redbirds) are beautiful, too.

Brothers and Sisters,

I value the input of everyone here, as this thread has made everyone think about some important issues.

As an example:

Will everyone think just a little bit differently the next time a very poor or homeless person shows up for church?

Might there be some additional thought now if a person has no money for shoes or is wearing dirty or tattered clothing?

Might there be some additional thought that we realize that God looks on the heart, not the outward man?

I sincerely hope this thread doesn't hurt anyone's feelings, rather just make all Christians think. I think that everyone agrees with the term, "modest". I don't think that anyone believes suggestive clothing has a place in church. The varying opinions appear to be in the area of expense and finery.

I would guess that most of us really don't have the money to be involved in expense and finery contests. I know that I don't. I'll have to be happy with the $15 shirt and $20 pair of pants. If I wear my suit, it will be a $100 suit that came with two pairs of pants. I really don't think that money was the primary issue raised in this thread, rather the thought that many compete with finery and bring attention to themselves instead of God.

Love In Christ,
Tom

I Peter 3:15  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Ahem.


This is the most confusing thread I've ever read.


And I'm the one who started it.


   ::)

Amen!

God never once said "dress up for me"
What He said was "Let me dress you up"
Amen, Shylynne!


"Dressing up" outwardly for the Lord is about like saying I must have a gluttonous feast in order to give thanks to Him for food.  ::)

1 Timothy 6

3   If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4   He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5   Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
6   But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7   For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8   And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
9   But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10   For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
11   But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
12   Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

17   Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;
18   That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;
19   Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.
20   O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:
21   Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.

Jeremiah 13
10 This evil people, which refuse to hear my words, which walk in the imagination of their heart, and walk after other gods, to serve them, and to worship them, shall even be as this girdle, which is good for nothing.
 :-X

Jeremiah 13

17 But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall weep in secret places for your pride; and mine eye shall weep sore, and run down with tears, because the LORD's flock is carried away captive.

Jeremiah 13
25 This is thy lot, the portion of thy measures from me, saith the LORD; because thou hast forgotten me, and trusted in falsehood.
26 Therefore will I discover thy skirts upon thy face, that thy shame may appear.

Ezekiel 16
15 But thou didst trust in thine own beauty, and playedst the harlot because of thy renown, and pouredst out thy fornications on every one that passed by; his it was.

MSG: Jeremiah 13:18

Tell the king and the queen-mother,
"Come down off your high horses.
Your dazzling crowns
will tumble off your heads."

Mark 7
13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.

Ought Not This Woman Be Loosed?
by Chip Brogden

"Ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom satan has bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from her bond on the Sabbath day?" (Luke 13:16)

Permit me to paint a picture for you.

Jesus is speaking to a packed assembly in one of the local synagogues. The people are listening closely as He talks to them about the Kingdom of Heaven and His Father's plan for them.

In the middle of His teaching, Jesus notices a woman there in the group. She cannot stand upright, but is bent over at the waist, face down to the ground. Without anyone telling Him so, Jesus perceived that she had been this way for eighteen years.

Jesus senses His Father moving, stirring within Him. His words trail off and He lapses into silence, appearing to be lost in thought as He fixes His eyes on her.

The people are waiting. What is He looking at? They all look at one another and then follow Jesus' gaze towards the back of the long hall.

There is the woman, hunched over and face down to the ground, oblivious to the attention she has generated, but wondering why it has grown so quiet.

Now Jesus calls her to come to Him! What? Yes, dear woman, you are the one. Follow the sound of My Voice and come here to Me.

Slowly and with great difficulty she walks towards the source of this gentle but powerful Voice, still bent over at the waist, trembling with fear.

What is He going to do?

"Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity!"

Cradling her face in His hands, He gently begins to raise her up so He can look her in the eye. And, for the first time in eighteen years, she stands up straight!

"I am healed!" she whispers. Then, as the reality of the moment sinks in, she finds within herself a voice she never knew she had, and begins to cry out, hesitatingly at first, then louder and louder:

"G-G-Glory to... the God of Israel! Hosanna... to the S-S-Son of David! Blessed be the Name of the Lord!! Praise the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob!!!!"

But the celebration is short-lived.

The ruler of the synagogue (the man who invited Jesus to speak) gets up from his seat, glares at Jesus, and then looks at the people. "There are six days for working," he hisses to the crowd. "Come back some other day to be healed. No work is to be done on the Sabbath day, not even a miraculous work!"

There is an uncomfortable silence. The woman who was healed begins to bow herself down again in shame, as if she has been punched in the stomach. But Jesus catches her, shakes His head "No," and with a smile encourages her to stand up straight and tall, which she does. He puts an arm around her to indicate that she should remain there with Him.

Then He turns to face the ruler of the synagogue.

The look on Jesus' face is indescribable, but I will try to describe it: He has the appearance of a Good Shepherd Who discovers a wolf in the act of devouring one of His little sheep. His eyes are passionate, penetrating, piercing, and determined, "like a flame of fire".

"You hypocrite!" Jesus says to the man in charge. "Don't each of you loose your ox or your donkey and lead them away to be watered on the Sabbath day? Then ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom satan has bound for eighteen years, be loosed from her bond on the Sabbath day?" (Luke 13:15,16).

The leader opens his mouth to protest, but he can't utter a sound. The blood rushes to his face and he clenches his fists in frustration, yet he can't make a move. He can only take his seat again, silently hating himself for ever allowing Jesus to speak to his congregation, and vowing never to have Him back again.

"And when He had said these things, all His adversaries were ashamed: and all the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by Him" (Luke 13:17).
* * * *
This is not just a miracle. It is a sign, and it is present truth for this day, this time, and this season.

We see that the Lord Jesus is on the side of liberty, freedom, deliverance, healing, setting free, releasing, and restoring that which is bound.

Religion, on the other hand, is on the side of bondage, tradition, conformity, uniformity, control, and manipulation.

This woman was indeed a "daughter of Abraham", a child of the covenant, and entitled to a rich spiritual inheritance in Christ! But eighteen years of "Sabbath day religion" had left her unchanged. She attended the services, she sang, she gave, she listened to the sermons, but she left out of there each week the same way she came in - hunched over.

What kept her bound? What exactly was this "spirit of infirmity"?

Some would automatically say she had a demon that needed to be cast out, and THAT was the spirit of infirmity.

Perhaps...

But things aren't always as they appear.

In most cases Jesus rebukes the demon and then sets the captive free. In this case, He sets the captive free and then rebukes the demon. Why?

I submit to you that though the woman was indeed bound by satan for eighteen years, the spirit that kept her bound was not living in HER, but was living in the religious ruler who wanted to keep her in her place.

It was the ruler of the synagogue who had the demon - not the woman.

All the people rejoiced - but their spiritual leader was indignant! The spirit behind him is clearly revealed in his attempt to regain control of the people, dampen their newly discovered joy, make the healed woman feel guilty for being healed, and even rebuke the Lord Himself - all the while hiding behind something religious, "the Sabbath", as his excuse.

Only satan enjoys keeping people in bondage. Only an evil spirit resents it when they are set free. Only a religious demon hates to see someone stand upright and look them square in the eye. So it resists and fears anything that it cannot control, working feverishly to maintain its own preeminence in the eyes of the people.

At work here is something more than just a physical healing. There is a spiritual confrontation taking place also.

So when the demon within the religious ruler protested that she should not be set free, Jesus spoke to its willing host directly:

"You hypocrite! Ought not this woman be loosed?"

Not only loosed from the thing that controlled her body, but the thing that controlled her spirit and her soul with its religious hypocrisy, demonic manipulation, and desire that she be kept "down".

"Ought not this woman be loosed?" To Jesus, anything less was unacceptable. She must not be bound! She must not be oppressed any longer! She must not be hunched over! Eighteen years of bondage is long enough! Loose her, and let her go free!

And in ten seconds, Jesus did something that eighteen years of religion had been unable and unwilling to do.

As I travel about I see many in the Body of Christ who are "bent over" with this same malady, held captive by that "spirit of infirmity" which prevents them from being able to stand upright, all because they are bound by religion and kept in place by the traditions of men, by their own "spiritual leadership".

But I also see Jesus calling to multitudes of hunched over people, calling them to Himself (just as He called that woman), that they may be set free from the things which have had them bound for so long.

How difficult it must have been to hear the voice of the Lord and then defy the leadership and go directly to Jesus, knowing that it would bring instant condemnation and criticism from that spirit of Antichrist. Had she "checked with the leadership" first, she would still be hunched over, because they would have told her it's illegal for Jesus to heal people on the Sabbath day.

Her first act of rebellion was to take those baby steps towards Jesus and away from religion and man-worship. But in taking that first step, she threw off the shackles that had bound her for nearly two decades. When she responded to the call of the Lord, He set her free from her bondage - spiritually as well as physically.

But SHE had to take that first step, however halting, however painful, and however uncomfortable it must have been.

I am glad she found freedom in Christ. I am sad that the religious ruler went home still bound.

This is the word of the Lord to us individually, and it is also the word of the Lord to the Bride of Christ. We hear Him saying to us:

"Ought not this woman - My Bride - be loosed?"

And we say, "YES!"

May it be so, and may all His adversaries be ashamed. Amen.


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Matthew 22

 1.  "And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said,
 2.  The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,
 3.  And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come.
 4.  Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.
 5.  But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:
 6.  And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them.
 7.  But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.
 8.  Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy.
 9.  Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.
 10.  So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.
 11.  And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:
 12.  And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.
 13.  Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
 14.  For many are called, but few are chosen."

Spiritual adornment. Are we dressed for the marriage and the wedding feast?

ollie