by Chris Steele

July 9, 2006

From an early age we learn that what we wear, and where we wear it, is important. What may be acceptable and appropriate at one event, may be totally out of place at another. Because of this principle, dress codes are everywhere. Most businesses have them. Uniforms, business suits, dress clothes, or even jeans and a t-shirt, all reflect the type of work being done or the imagine represented. The business world will tell even the general population what kind of attire is acceptable in their establishments. We are very familiar with, "No Shirt, No Shoes, No Service," or "Proper Attire Is Required."

The elders should not need to draw up a dress code for the church membership. As Christians, we must keep in mind that there is appropriate attire for worship and Bible study, as well as anywhere else the child of God may go. First and foremost, anything the Christian wears, no matter where we are in the public eye, must be modest. Second, what we wear to a picnic is not appropriate dress for a wedding or funeral, and especially for worship, or even Bible study.

When we come together in the assembly, we are there to worship God. We must approach Him with the dignity and respect that is due The Almighty. God requires that our hearts be clothed with great awe and humility as we bow down in our worship to Him. On this solemn occasion, He requires that His worshippers wear clothes that reflect what is in the heart of those that honor Him.

What we wear determines the attitude we have toward the occasion and anyone who is there with us. It also shows everyone else what that attitude is. Let us not be careless in the way we dress and guard against being too casual in what we wear to worship and Bible study. May we always remember the dignity and respect that those occasions demand.