Certainly there is some disconnect in condemning limited jewelry but embracing costly array. But I do believe that both miss the point that Paul was making. It's not about what you wear on the outside that matters most but the inside that counts. And so I enter this discussion believing that both jewelry and costly array may be ok given the right circumstances.
Nevertheless, I have got to admit that I am conflicted by the whole thing.
Dressing with Distinction
I do believe that the more "separated" from the fashions of the world; the more likely there will be a totally different culture in the church that occurs naturally as the body of believers creates their own society and ways to be legitimately noticed and recognized as distinctive from the uniform otherwise worn.
Is this all bad? Heavens no. Its refreshing to walk into the House of God and see good and wonderful people who are there to worship in their finest. It is so Norman Rockwell to walk into church as a family with one's Sunday attire that includes Rothchild coats for little girls and suits and ties for boys.
It is easy to bring your children up to live "above" the crowd at school when there is something wonderfully connected going on at church. It is like raising up royalty and isn't that what we are doing?
Toll on Visitors
HOWEVER....it is hard on visitors. And makes the visiting children stick out like sore thumbs. For some it works and when they come to Christ they can't wait to put on new clothes that signal they are part of that particular church body.
But for others; there is a discomfort that they can't get past. They won't be caught dead in a suit; even for their funeral.
And so we weigh traditional church clothes that promote a most wonderful feeling for those that wear them against the backdrop of welcoming others to place where they too can worship God without being embarrased by what they have to come to church in. There are no easy answers....
Message to Our Children
But I do believe we should cut the Conservatives slack who choose to worship God in their finest. It certainly sends a message to their children that isn't all bad.
The House of God is special as you are. No need to adapt to the lack of morality and lack of reverence of this world. Amen?
