We must be concerned about modesty because of clear Biblical teachings. I Timothy 2: 9-10 uses the following words (KJV) to instruct women about clothing. Definitions are taken from Strong’s.
Modest— kosmios (kos’-mee-os) (in its primary sense); orderly, i.e. decorous:–of good behavior.
Shamefacedness–aidos (ahee-doce’) (through the idea of downcast eyes); bashfulness, i.e. (towards men), modesty or (towards God) awe:–reverence, propriety.
Sobriety–sophrosune (so-fros-oo’-nay) ; soundness of mind, i.e. (literally) sanity or (figuratively) self-control:–soberness.
Becometh–prepo (prep’-o); apparently a primary verb; to tower up (be conspicuous), i.e. (by implication) to be suitable or proper (third person singular present indicative, often used impersonally, it is fit or right):–comely.
Godliness–theosebeia (theh-os-eb’-i-ah); devoutness, i.e. piety.
So here are a list of words that should come to our minds when we make wardrobe choices:
| Orderly | Reverence toward God | |
| Decorous | Shamefacedness | |
| Of good behavior | Propriety | |
| Modest | Moderation | |
| Bashfulness | Soundness of Mind | |
| Modesty toward men | Self Control | |
| Awe toward God | Soberness | |
| Proper | Suitable | |
| Right | Comely | |
| Becoming | Devoutness | |
| Piety | Godliness |
It is not difficult to use this terminology checklist when making wardrobe decisions. When we additionally examine the meanings of the terms chaste and discreet from Titus 2:3-5, we are equipped with Biblical guidelines for our dress in today’s American culture. When we examine the reason given in Titus two for teaching and heeding the directives of verses three through five (so that the Word of God will not be blasphemed), we understand the serious nature of the Holy Spirit’s apostolic admonitions.
Part 3 next time!
