1 Peter 3:3-4 (NIV), “Your beauty should not come from outward adornments, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
These scriptures are referring to expensive jewelry, elaborate hairstyles, and costly clothing. The wearing of these things tends to bring human status and vanity. Those who judge by outward appearances are impressed by expensive things.
Yet, don’t we all prefer to associate with respectful, peaceful, and gracious persons? Costly adornments do not improve an argumentative, selfish personality. More importantly, we want to be beautiful in God’s eyes. And in God’s sight, the character traits of “love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23) are of great worth.
Titus 2:3, “be…teachers of good things.” Our conduct, including our apparel, should honor the highest goals in Christian life. We want to have spiritual qualities that are seen and followed by our fellow Christians.
Finally, neither our Lord nor the apostles forbade the wearing of jewelry. The problem lies in valuing and honoring earthly riches – like gold and diamond jewelry. Instead, Jesus taught us to focus on pleasing God. Matthew 6:20-21 (NET) “…accumulate for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Additional Resource:
Christian Questions Podcast Episode #1240: Is It a Sin if I …? (Part I)
Examining whether how we dress and if gambling are sins
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
