How Do Biblical Teachings Influence the Dress Code for Women Regarding Skirts and Makeup and Not Cutting Hair?

[Paradise Haven]

Biblical teachings have long influenced the dress code for women in various Christian communities, particularly regarding the wearing of skirts, abstaining from makeup, and not cutting hair. These practices are often rooted in specific scriptural passages that emphasize modesty, gender distinction, and holiness. For instance, 1 Timothy 2:9-10 encourages women to dress modestly and focus on good works rather than outward adornment. Similarly, 1 Corinthians 11:5-6 and 11:14-15 discuss the significance of women covering their heads and the cultural and spiritual importance of long hair as a covering. Deuteronomy 22:5 further reinforces the distinction between male and female attire. These scriptures collectively shape the guidelines followed by some denominations, aiming to reflect a commitment to biblical principles and a lifestyle that honors God's design and order. Any thoughts?

 

[bèlla]

No one can speak for everyone but each can share their practices for education. Sustainability is an integral part of my appearance. We adhere to eco-friendly practices and apply the same to clothing and personal products. We've elected to stick with natural fibers and eliminate synthetics. We view our perspective as a way of honoring the Lord and supporting the earth's natural resources.

Timely trims are good for the hair as is a nourishing diet and products. Temperance in consumption and clothing work hand in hand. I prefer dresses and skirts with sensible hemlines and tops that aren't overly revealing. We believe makeup should be tastefully applied and shouldn't make you unrecognizable and accessories follow suit. Some adornment is fine and less is more is best.

While I prefer dresses and skirts and an elegant aesthetic. I don't believe others must follow suit and clothing should be suited to one's silhouette and lifestyle. I'm not opposed to pants or specialized attire for specific tasks or activities. We should honor our temple inside and out and that is our approach for doing so.

~bella

 

[Rescued One]

Are only women to dress a given way? What about men? Should men dress as Jesus did?

 

[David Lamb]

Are only women to dress a given way? What about men? Should men dress as Jesus did?

I find nothing in the bible that says that Christian men must dress as Jesus did. If we did have to dress as He did, I am certain God would have ensured that the bible contained more detailed information on what Jesus actually wore! Remember, God looks at the heart, rather than the outward appearance.

 

[Rescued One]

My question is actually why in some churches women have to wear dresses and skirts if men wear shorts and short-sleeved shirts.

But members of those churches probably aren't online.

 

[jiminpa]

Since such things are pretty subjective and dress codes are usually about a measurable "holiness pecking order," I tend to shy away from churches with dress codes. Yes, we should dress modestly enough to not be a stumbling block to one another. I have learned the hard way that most church dress codes are not all about anything like that though. Often they are used to actually violate scripture by keeping out those who can't afford clothing up to code.

I have yet to see a church with a dress code that wasn't more interested in rules than in actually loving God.

 

[Rescued One]

I tend to think about various denominations a lot. I prefer modesty but am not as harsh as some Christian(?) women who criticize Mennonites and say "How can they lead someone to Christ dressed like that?"

My dirt poor grandmother-in-law was known for saying, "Clothes don't make the person." I've known the kindest, most Christ-like Mennonites who could certainly lead prople to Christ as well as some who maybe couldn't. Gram was right --- "Clothes don't make the person!"

But we need to remember God does the converting! Do I hear an "Amen?"

 

[Aaron112]

"How can they lead someone to Christ dressed like that?"

Having visited Mennonites in the last year in particular, it was delightful to see men, children and women who not only obey God and keep His Instructions,
but who also do not lead others astray by ungodly appearances in the clothes they wear.

 

[Rescued One]

Having visited Mennonites in the last year in particular, it was delightful to see men, children and women who not only obey God and keep His Instructions,
but who also do not lead others astray by ungodly appearances in the clothes they wear.

There are many types of Mennonites. They have 2 colleges, 1 in VA and 1 in IN. Those are the most liberal Mennonites who dress like evangelicals and whose women don't wear head coverings/prayer veilings. In other comferences you will find rules from almost Amish to a requirement for women to wear head coverings, no wedding bands for men or women, seldom any jewelry, no TV, or almost like college Mennonites. One would have to study a lot to recognize the many differences. German Baptist men can be mistaken for Amish. I think they used to be called Dunkards; they immerse three times for baptism. Most Mennonites drive cars. Some still use horse and buggy. Some don't allow buttons. Women's clothing can be solid colors to small prints. Some have rules for the kind of tires on tractors. I'm no expert and I don't think there is a book that explains all the differences. Unfortunately dress standards don't indicate holiness; marital infidelity, child abuse, incest and other sins still exist.

 

[mourningdove~]

I tend to think about various denominations a lot. I prefer modesty but am not as harsh as some Christian(?) women who criticize Mennonites and say "How can they lead someone to Christ dressed like that?"

My dirt poor grandmother-in-law was known for saying, "Clothes don't make the person." I've known the kindest, most Christ-like Mennonites who could certainly lead prople to Christ as well as some who maybe couldn't. Gram was right --- "Clothes don't make the person!"

But we need to remember God does the converting! Do I hear an "Amen?"

 

[Palmfever]

Paul on occasion speaks for himself as to what HE believes is proper and in accordance with good sense. He specifies that they are His thoughts on the matter. The following reflects this;
1Tim, 2
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people
2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior,
4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus,
6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time.
7 And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and an apostle—I am telling the truth, I am not lying—and a true and faithful teacher of the Gentiles.
8 Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.
9 I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes,
10 but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.

What HE is suggesting is,Worship God first, dress for God, not your friends or the world, instead with good deeds which are appropriate for those who believe and worship God.

This portion of scripture is steeped in tradition. Tradition which subjugated women. I believe there should be One Captain of a ship, yet many have jumped on these words to practice dominance over women. Small insecure males in my estimation which is irrelevant. God has declared that before Him there is no male nor female. He also declares that He is focused on our hearts. Having said this, Captains have a chief mate. We as men have a chief mate as God proclaimed,'It is not good that man should be alone.'
Not all men/women need a mate. Some remain single if God has intended them to do so and others choose for themselves.

1 Cor, 11
Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ
2 Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you. 3 But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head. 5 But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved. 6 For if a woman is not covered, let her also be shaved. But if it is shameful for a woman to be shaved, let her be covered. 7 For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. 8 For man is not from woman, but woman from man. 9 Nor was man created for the woman, but woman for the man. 10 For this reason the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. 11 Nevertheless, neither is man independent of woman, nor woman independent of man, in the Lord. 12 For as woman came from man, even so man also comes through woman; but all things are from God.
13 Judge among yourselves. Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him? (Nature teaches me many things, all self serving. Some necessary for the survival of this natural body. Yet, 'The natural man cannot please God.') 15 But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering. 16 But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God.

These rules for church governance I see as just that. A way to simplify order and traditionally this is how it's has been done Paul states. This brings to mind another instance just below in which Paul again specifically declares, This is my opinion, or this is my thought on the matter.

1, Tim 2:12
And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. 15 Nevertheless she will be saved in childbearing if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control.

From what I have read in scripture, men and women are saved by faith in Gods plan. Do any believe it is by childbirth? No.
I would use caution when dismissing the words of Paul as if they where simply applicable to that time exclusively. There are not many times in which he states these words are of my opinion.

God and His Word are 'The same yesterday, today and forever.'

 

[Diamond72]

Biblical teachings have long influenced the dress code for women in various Christian communities,

This was one of John Wesley's biggest regrets is that he did not teach women to be more modest in the way they dress and wear their hair.

I think it is amazing to see women with long hair and a long dress praying at the alter for the sake of the angels. Sometimes it is not so amazing when they are not at the alter if they are trying to put on a show for people.

 

[Diamond72]

There are many types of Mennonites.

Every church is different and they just need to join a church they feel comfortable with. Sometimes they do get thrown out of their church. There are many churches happy to take them in.

 

[Diamond72]

Should men dress as Jesus did?

I do not know if I can afford that.

 

[Rescued One]

This was one of John Wesley's biggest regrets is that he did not teach women to be more modest in the way they dress and wear their hair.

I think it is amazing to see women with long hair and a long dress praying at the alter for the sake of the angels. Sometimes it is not so amazing when they are not at the alter if they are trying to put on a show for people.

Christian women have Bibles and the Holy Spirit. Jesus guides all His sheep. The altar was where animals were sacrificed. It was most likely outdoors due to the smoke.

 

[Diamond72]

The altar was where animals were sacrificed. It was most likely outdoors due to the smoke.

The concept of a “living sacrifice” comes from the New Testament, specifically Romans 12:1, where Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. This means:

• Daily Devotion: Living a life dedicated to God, making choices that honor Him in everyday actions.
• Spiritual Worship: Instead of physical sacrifices, believers are called to offer their lives in service, embodying Christ’s teachings and love3.

 

[Gregory Thompson]

Biblical teachings have long influenced the dress code for women in various Christian communities, particularly regarding the wearing of skirts, abstaining from makeup, and not cutting hair. These practices are often rooted in specific scriptural passages that emphasize modesty, gender distinction, and holiness. For instance, 1 Timothy 2:9-10 encourages women to dress modestly and focus on good works rather than outward adornment. Similarly, 1 Corinthians 11:5-6 and 11:14-15 discuss the significance of women covering their heads and the cultural and spiritual importance of long hair as a covering. Deuteronomy 22:5 further reinforces the distinction between male and female attire. These scriptures collectively shape the guidelines followed by some denominations, aiming to reflect a commitment to biblical principles and a lifestyle that honors God's design and order. Any thoughts?

It all has to do with attitude. If you present rules, those who are looking for a marriage partner, will be the first to apply those rules in the most sexually provocative way .. without even intending to do so.

So whatever rules a congregation comes up with, the attitude matters the most. The question to ask is, where should you be looking?

 

[Rescued One]

I do not know if I can afford that.

The Bible doesn't require it or even suggest it.

 

[Aaron112]

› romans › 13-14.htm
Romans 13:14 Instead, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ,

and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.

Instead, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.

 

[Diamond72]

The Bible doesn't require it or even suggest it.

The Bible talks about how our garment is to be washed and cleansed in the Blood of Jesus.

Revelation 7:14: This verse speaks of a great multitude who have “washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” This symbolizes the cleansing and purification that comes through Jesus’ sacrifice.