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What does the Bible say about wearing jewelry?

The UPC, along with many other holiness groups, teaches against wearing jewelry. I know that when I was in the movement I took the teaching for granted. I think that many others did as well. If new converts asked questions then the general answer went something like this: “It’s an inward change of the heart that is reflected by an outward change of appearance; as Christians we are called to be separate from the world.” Alternatively, the new convert might be given a well-meaning lesson on respecting pastoral authority even if we do not “see it for ourselves.” If the person questioning is not a new convert then they are often judged as being “cold on God” or “lukewarm.” I am ashamed to admit that I was often guilty of judging people that way.

When I was part of the apostolic Pentecostal movement I happily went along with the doctrine of no jewelry without really questioning it. I had this vague idea that there was biblical support for it. There must be, right? Otherwise, why would we be teaching it? It was not until I began to question many of the doctrines of the UPC that I studied the no-jewelry doctrine for myself. When I did, I was surprised to find out that there is literally no biblical support for the doctrine. In fact, the Bible has more good to say about jewelry than it does bad!

In this article I will share some Scriptures and make some comments. I think that the Scriptures will speak for themselves, but hopefully you will find my comments beneficial. As always, I encourage you to study Scripture and formulate your own opinions.

What Do Holiness Organizations Say About Jewelry?

First, let’s look at what the UPC and a couple of other apostolic holiness organizations have to say about jewelry. The doctrinal section of the UPC’s Web site says:

[The Christian woman] has dedicated herself to the cause of Christianity. This manner of dedication avoids expensive, extravagant clothing and superfluous, ornamental jewelry, permitting only the functional use of a wristwatch and a wedding band to designate her wedlock1.

Their conclusion comes from these two passages: 1 Tim. 2:8-10 and 1 Pet. 3:1-5. I will come back to those Scriptures in a moment.

The Articles of Faith of the ALJC—an organization that allows its member churches more autonomy on how much jewelry they allow—also cites 1 Pet. 3:1-5 as “instruction to wives about their behavior and appearance.”2 They conclude that “Holiness is not only an inward presence of God but it is also reflected in the outward life of the Christian in his conduct in this world.” On the surface this is a very generic statement, and one that every Christian would agree with. In practice, though, the “outward life” is translated into a dress code.

The Articles of Faith of the WPF says:

The glory of the female believer is manifested, among other ways, through the emanation of the divine glory in her appearance (I Peter 3:3,4). All artifice is viewed as obstruction to her authentic beauty and is to be avoided (I Timothy 2:9,10). Jewelry, (I Timothy 2:9), make-up, (II Kings 9:3) dyes, and any other artificiality, as well as immodest apparel, are viewed as attempts to artificially induce beauty (Isaiah 3:16-24 RSV, I Peter 3:1-5) and replace the lost glow of God’s glory as seen in the face of the believer as well as in the heavens. All this is Scripturally associated with Jezebel, who is both an Old Testament (I Kings 18:4, 19:1-2, II Kings 9:7,30), as well as New Testament, example of seduction and artificiality (Revelation 2:20,22). Thus, “cosmetics,” derived from “cosmos” (arrangement, as in the universe) are attempts to “make-up” the sparkle and glow, which is normative in the presence of the living God as well as within the believer (Philippians 2:15)3.

It is clear that out of the three views the WPF’s is both the most restrictive and the one with the most Scripture citations. I could write an entire article responding just to the things that the WPF said in the above quotation (and I probably will). For now I would just like to point out two things. First, Jezebel was never condemned for her artificiality; she was condemned for trying to kill the prophets of God (Rev. 2:20). It is Western society that has associated Jezebel with extreme make-up and jewelry; that idea is not found in the Bible. Second, Phil. 2:14-15 is talking about not grumbling and disputing. The reason Paul says not to grumble and dispute is because we “appear as lights in the world” (Phil. 2:15). To say that I think it is a logical stretch to teach that cosmetics are wrong because they make us sparkle and glow would be an understatement. (Come to think of it, I’ve never seen any cosmetics that make someone glow; I think it would be pretty cool.)

If we exclude the WPF’s connection between cosmetics and artificial glowing then it becomes apparent that there are only two passages that are used to support the no-jewelry (or limited jewelry) rule: 1 Tim. 2:8-10 and 1 Pet. 3:1-5. I will deal with those two passages in a moment, but first let’s look at some Scriptures that the holiness groups probably never showed you.

Some Scriptures Your Pastor Never Showed You:

Ezekiel 16:8-15, NASB
Then I passed by you and saw you, and behold, you were at the time for love; so I spread My skirt over you and covered your nakedness. I also swore to you and entered into a covenant with you so that you became Mine, declares the Lord God. Then I bathed you with water, washed off your blood from you and anointed you with oil. I also clothed you with embroidered cloth and put sandals of porpoise skin on your feet; and I wrapped you with fine linen and covered you with silk. I adorned you with ornaments, put bracelets on your hands and a necklace around your neck. I also put a ring in your nostril, earrings in your ears and a beautiful crown on your head. Thus you were adorned with gold and silver, and your dress was of fine linen, silk and embroidered cloth. You ate fine flour, honey and oil; so you were exceedingly beautiful and advanced to royalty. Then your fame went forth among the nations on account of your beauty, for it was perfect because of My splendor which I bestowed on you, declares the Lord God. But you trusted in your beauty and played the harlot because of your fame, and you poured out your harlotries on every passer-by who might be willing.4

Song of Solomon 1:10-11, NASB
“Your cheeks are lovely with ornaments, Your neck with strings of beads. We will make for you ornaments of gold With beads of silver.”

Pro 1:8-9 NASB
Hear, my son, your father’s instruction And do not forsake your mother’s teaching; Indeed, they are a graceful wreath to your head And ornaments about your neck.

Son 7:1 NASB
"How beautiful are your feet in sandals, O prince’s daughter! The curves of your hips are like jewels, The work of the hands of an artist.

Isa 61:10 NASB
I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, My soul will exult in my God; For He has clothed me with garments of salvation, He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

Isa 49:18 NASB
"Lift up your eyes and look around; All of them gather together, they come to you. As I live," declares the LORD, "You will surely put on all of them as jewels and bind them on as a bride.

Now, when I read these Scriptures I asked myself a question: If jewelry is so sinful, then how come God repeatedly used it as an analogy of beauty? If it’s such a sin to wear jewelry then why would God promise to clothe people with "garments of salvation…as a bride adorns herself with jewels"? If jewelry’s a sin then isn’t God making some really, really bad analogies?

To put it another way, if jewelry is bad, then was God really saying, “I’m going to give my bride a bunch of jewels, and they’ll make her look really beautiful, but she’d better not wear them because they’re bad!” Or, “Wow, my bride rocks, the curve of her hips are like jewels! Too bad she can’t wear jewels because it’s a sin.”

Isn’t it a stretch to think that God would make these analogies if jewelry is bad?

Does the Bible Ever Say That Wearing Jewelry Is A Sin?

This is a really important question. You see, everything that is a sin in the New Testament was also a sin in the Old Testament Law (I.E. Exodus, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy). Let me say that again: Everything that is a sin in the New Testament was also a sin in the Old Testament Law.

Now, the converse is not true. Everything that was a sin in the Old Testament Law was not necessarily a sin in the New Testament. The reason is because the Mosaic Law was broken into three parts: Moral, Ceremonial, and Penal. The moral law was (for the most part) what we call the 10 Commandments, as well as commands against fornication, homosexuality, drunkenness, and so on; the ceremonial law involved the sacrifices, the foods that a person could eat, whether or not you could dig your donkey out of a ditch on the Sabbath, and things like that; the penal law gave the penalties for breaking the moral or ceremonial law.5

When Jesus came on the scene He fulfilled the ceremonial law and the penal law. He did not fulfill the moral law.6 Instead, He "put [His] laws upon [our] heart[s]" (Heb. 10:16 NASB).

I said all of that to say this: You cannot find a sin in the New Testament that was not also a sin in the Old Testament Law. The reason is simple–the Law defines sin! Paul put it this way: "I would not have come to know sin except through the Law; for I would not have known about coveting if the Law had not said, "You shall not covet" (Rom. 7:7 NASB).

Now let’s get back to my original question: Does the Bible ever say that wearing jewelry is a sin? The answer is apparently “No.” The Bible never says that jewelry is a sin. For that matter, it has more good to say about jewelry than it does bad!

So What Does The Bible Say?

As I showed at the start of this article, the no jewelry (or limited jewelry) doctrine is defended by two Scripture passages: 1 Tim. 2:8-10 and 1 Pet. 3:1-5. Before we look at those passages, though, please allow me to make one brief point. If I thought that the Bible even hinted that jewelry is a sin then I would be one of the doctrine’s strongest defenders. When I was in the apostolic movement I never had any desire to wear jewelry; I never cared one way or the other. So please do not think that this article is about me wanting to wear jewelry, or me “rebelling,” or anything like that. Because it’s not.

With that said, let’s look at 1 Tim. 2:8-10 and 1 Pet. 3:1-5. Let’s do 1 Pet. 3:1-5 first.

1Pe 3:1-5 NASB
In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. Your adornment must not be merely external–braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God.  For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands.

Now, when presented with a passage such as this, we have two options. The first option is to assume that the author is presenting a principle, and that the examples that he uses to illustrate the principles are just that: examples. The second option is to assume that the author is laying down a set of rules, and that he expects people to take him literally. The one thing that is not an option is to take part of the passage literally and part of it figuratively—yet that is exactly what the UPC and other holiness organizations frequently do.

For example, if Peter expects us to take him literally then we need to do just that. If he is speaking literally, and he is laying down rules, then here is what we can glean:

  1. Peter is speaking only to wives. The things that he is saying do not apply to single women.
  2. Wives cannot braid their hair.
  3. Wives cannot wear gold jewelry (other kinds are presumably allowed).
  4. Wives must not wear dresses.

That is option one.

Option two is that Peter is using fancy hair styles, gold jewelry, and fancy clothes as examples because they help him make his point. If option two is correct then we can glean these principles:

  1. Peter is speaking specifically to wives—especially those who have unsaved husbands—but the principle can apply to us all.
  2. His principle is that we should not focus on our outer appearance—on our lavish hairdos, fancy clothes, and expensive jewelry—but we should instead focus on cultivating “chaste and respectful behavior.”

I will let you decide which of those two options is correct. All that I will say is that one of them has to be correct. I want to stress again that it is illogical and absurd to read this passage and pull one word out—jewelry—and teach that it is wrong while maintaining that braided hair and dresses are alright.

Now let’s look at 1 Tim. 2:8-10:

1Ti 2:8-10 NASB
Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension. Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness.

We are once again presented with two options. Is Paul using braided hair, gold, pearls and costly garments as examples in order to make a broader point, or is he laying down a set of rules?

If he is laying down a set of rules then this is what we can glean:

  1. Men always have to lift their hands when they pray. Furthermore, they cannot lift their hands if there is any wrath or dissension in their heart.
  2. Women must dress modestly and discreetly.
  3. Women must not braid their hair.
  4. Women must not wear gold or pearls.
  5. Women must not wear costly garments.
  6. Women must wear good works (what store do you buy those in?).

There are a couple of problems with the first option. One might reasonably wonder how a woman can wear good works. On the other hand, if Paul is making a broader point, and he is just using braided hair, gold, pearls and costly garments as an example, then this is what we can glean:

  1. Men need to cultivate a holy attitude. When they pray they should examine their hearts and make sure that they are not harboring any wrath or dissension.
  2. Women need to do the same thing. They need to make sure that they are focusing on the inside and not the outside. They need to dress modestly and discreetly. If they are poor then they need to not worry about not having gold and pearls and servants to give them fancy hairdos, and they should be content that they can dress modestly. If they are rich then they should not focus on their gold and pearls and fancy hairdos—they might even want to consider getting rid of some of that and helping folks out who are in need. That’s good works, and that’s what a godly woman should be worried about.

Now you might disagree with my broader interpretation of what Paul is saying to women, and that’s fine if you do. But my original point remains the same. Either Paul is speaking literally or he is making a broader point using examples that were common for his day. It’s one or the other, it can’t be both at the same time. It makes no sense to say, “Paul said don’t wear gold or pearls but it’s OK if we braid our hair!” That makes no sense at all.

Conclusion

Do you see how ridiculous this gets? The UPC and associated organizations allow women to braid their hair, but they don’t allow them to wear most jewelry. They allow women to wear “costly dresses,” even though Peter said they shouldn’t wear dresses at all (if we take him literally). Most of them allow women to wear gold wedding bands, almost all of them allow gold watches, and every single one allows gold-rimmed glasses, but they won’t let them wear a silver necklace (even though neither Peter or Paul said anything about silver).

Folks, I have a name for this sort of teaching: Hypocrisy. Apostolic Pentecostal organizations have no problem taking Scriptures figuratively when it fits their agenda. They have no problem saying that when Stephen saw Jesus standing on the right hand of God he was speaking figuratively. They have no problem saying that Paul was giving a cultural command when he commanded (on four separate occasions) for brothers to great each other with a holy kiss. They have no problem saying that women can talk in church even though Paul specifically commanded against it.

And you know what? I agree with the UPC’s interpretation of those passages. I do think that the command for brothers to kiss each other was entirely cultural. I do think that Paul’s command for women not to speak in church was a command for order in the church, and the reason that he specifically commanded women not to speak was because of the cultural norms of his day. I do agree with the Oneness Pentecostals and Trinitarians when they say that God the Father does not have a physical body. Frankly, I don’t know what Stephen saw, but the one thing that I do not think he saw was two Gods. Two Gods is both logically and Scripturally impossible, and the Trinitarians would agree with me on that.

Folks, God gave us a brain…let’s use it! At some point we have to step back and look at a Scripture passage and capture the meaning as well as the words! If one steps back and just reads the passage with an open mind then it becomes clear that Peter and Paul were saying the exact same thing: Both men and women should be focused on cultivating inward holiness and not outward beauty! We should dress modestly and discreetly and avoid gaudiness and extravagance so that people can see our good deeds and our good behavior.

Conclusion:

If you are an apostolic woman reading this article, and you feel that God has led you to not wear jewelry, then I want you to know that I am not ridiculing you at all. You have my respect. My problem is not with you, it is with a religious system that creates man-made rules and regulations and then demands that people follow them. My problem is with a religious system that adds to the offense of the Cross. My problem is with any denomination, organization, or church that creates barriers between the lost and God.

You have heard my opinion of the subject, but if you would like to read “the other side of the story” then you can do so at these two links:

Additional Study:

Studying the subject of jewelry can be hard since different words were used (ornaments, ornamentation, pearls, etc.). If you would like to do your own study into the subject then here are a couple of links that I hope will be helpful!

  • ISBE – This is a link to the ISBE (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia) article on "Ornament."
  • Smith’s Bible Dictionary – A link to the "Ornaments, personal" article in Smith’s Bible Dictionary.
  • NASB word search – A link to the results of a search for the word "ornaments" in the NASB (New American Standard Bible).

References:

  1. United Pentecostal Church International – Modesty, Accessed 2006-12-22 [↩]
  2. Assemblies of the Lord Jesus Christ, Accessed 2008-06-23 [↩]
  3. Worldwide Pentecostal Fellowship, Accessed 2008-06-23 [↩]
  4. New American Standard Bible : 1995 Update. LaHabra, CA : The Lockman Foundation, 1995 [↩]
  5. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia , James Orr, M.A., D.D., General Editor, "Law In the New Testament” [↩]
  6. Ibid. [↩]
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101 Responses to What does the Bible say about wearing jewelry?

  1. What does the Bible say about wearing make-up? | whyileft.org
    November 13th, 2007 at 4:19 pm

    [...] What does the Bible say about women wearing pants? | Main | What does the Bible say about wearing jewelry? [...]

  2. carla
    April 16th, 2008 at 5:54 pm

    There is no power in ritual, but there is life transforming power in revelation. God is the Creator, we are the creation. The creation can never be greater than the Creator. In these latter days we must ask “what was God’s original intent?” when he said…when he did… The inference here is that we have veered far off from that “intent” and must find it only through divine revelation.

  3. Van
    May 4th, 2008 at 10:33 pm

    This was a very interesting article. I am studing to be a minister in the Seventh Day Adventist, and I was suggested not to wear my wedding band.
    I was told a watch is ok, because it served a purpous.So thank you for this.
    I will pray about it and see where God directs me.
    Thank you, and God Bless

  4. Marcia
    July 12th, 2008 at 10:33 pm

    im fourteen years of age…this is my first summer working and my boss said that we are not allowed to wear jelewry because the Bible says so….so i decided to do my reserch to see if she was right…turns out she was wrong…I’m a chrsitain myself and I see nothing weong with wearing jelewry.

  5. Josh
    July 14th, 2008 at 4:42 pm

    Marcia, good for you! Always test the things people tell you and validate them against the Word of God. That goes for the things that I say, too :)

  6. Annika Rei
    August 4th, 2008 at 11:07 pm

    Very impressive! Although I had a thought while reading your post. I wondered if God really doesn’t want women to wear those “extravagant” stuff because He’s thinks we might end up to be harlots, LOL! But seriously, I think the Scriptures permits us to wear jewelry IF somebody else put it on us. So…should I tell my husband to put my earrings in my ears for me?

  7. SIS NOEL
    August 5th, 2008 at 12:49 pm

    Camp Meeting.”Storming the Gates. When I saw the title I just knew I had to go. God made a way. I am so looking forward to what God is going to do. Sunday we were visiting with some friends and something came up that has really pierced my soul. I know my pastor mentioned it and its been happening but I didnt know who or really what or any of the details.
    This split in our organization. I only know a little bit and thats too much.
    My husband was looking at a new website and started to tell me hey honey so and so is on here. So and so left too. Men of God who I have throughout the years held in high regard. Men who have been mentors to my pastor and former pastor that I hear wont even talk to each other anymore.
    My husband mentioned someone we love and I told him to stop. I told him I dont want to hear about anyone else who has parted ways.
    I have not been able to understand it. I thought my God. These men of God are having great division over an opinion. Call it what you want when the rubber meets the road its nothing but a man’s opinion. OK fine Im not a preachers wife, I am just a servant, but are you kidding me? Is this what we are coming down to in the last days? The greatest men of God dividing themselves against each other while all of us watch and see who’s side we end up on? This is our example? I am so disturbed by this. I can only imagine how God must feel. What honor will He find in this? What glory would He get out of this?
    One man thinks he is right over the other. You know whats right? God is RIGHT! Loving your brother even if he dosent agree with you 100%. To keep a united front for the church. To not be distracted by the devil and turn the focus on yourselves and who is more holy than thou. To help each other make it. To love your brother as Christ loves you. Thats what is right!
    We are at the end of the road here folks! WAKE UP~!~ God is still on the throne. Judge not lest ye be judged! How can we have a powerful move of God throughout our movement if there is not unity? A church divided will not stand!! God loves unity. Put away your foolish pride and grab ahold of the love you used to all have for one another and hold on to that.
    If Jesus was sitting in on one of your board meetings do you honestly think He would care about the nonsense you are allowing to divide you? NO!! He would wonder where you lost the love in your heart for your friends? If Pastor so and so’s child was about to die would Pastor so and so not pray for that child anymore and not reach out to that pastor because they deem themselves better than the other?? This is so sad. We all need each other. Pastor so and so this other pastor so and so needs you. Over a difference of opinion are you going to walk away or walk over your brother to get to where you are going or are you going to reach out your hand and pull your brother up and walk with him.
    This is not of God. You can color it any color you want to make it look justified. Take a cloth and clean the board and you are left with the spirit of division. Unity has stepped off the bus!!
    God is not riding with you.. I know this is probably none of my concern but when our preachers start to divide against one another it shakes the very foundation God has placed us on. I trust God because in His word it says, “The gates of hell shall not prevail against the Church of the Living God”
    This ministry has traveled to far together to separate now.
    Dont forget where you came from. Some of these pastors have helped some of these others get to where they are today. You didnt arrive by yourself. God didnt bring us here. God hates division. He is not pleased. I wish and I will pray and intercede like I hope many people will unite in my prayer to bring a MIGHTY SPIRIT OF PEACE to conquer this horrible spirit of division and get ahold of our ministry and bring old friends back together to fight this fight together. We cant go into battle before the rapture divided. We must STAND together! Put aside your pride and pay a visit to Calvary. It will give you a whole new perspective. Your difference of opinion isnt going to make any difference on judgement day. It will only cause confusion as it already has and souls to be be utterly lost that you are responsible for. Love one another, this is the will of God..
    When my close friends disagree with me and we do. I dont cut them out of my life or love them any less. I am still there for them and will continue to run in this race with them. They are my friend. We can agree to disagree. Who are we when we think we dont have to show mercy and grace toward one another? When you needed it Jesus was there.
    Please everyone who reads this pray for the spirit of unity to arrest our ministry. Pray against this selfish spirit of division. Pray God will speak to each one of our pastors, ministers, missionaries and all who have been placed in authority over Gods people. I pray for friends to re-unite and for God to step in have His way. I know this is long and if Im out of place Lord please forgive me. Church keep your eyes on Jesus. This is only a distraction of the devil. I chose God’s side. I feel so sorry for my pastor to be put in the middle and have to chose. I know my pastor picks Jesus and wants no part of this division. Thank God! Peace I pray peace. Lets storm the gates together. I plead the blood of Jesus over this situation.
    I wish someone would get up at camp meeting and say this and at general conference and usher in a spirit of repentance and have the spirit of unity bind them all back together where they belong. God wants unity in His church and amongst His people and especially His Anointed!! Dont grieve the HOLY SPIRIT.
    Ask yourselves,
    What is Jesus saying???? Better yet whos side do you think He would chose? He loves all of you. He wont pick one over the other. Its heaven or hell not whos right or wrong. Search our hearts and search our souls Lord. Open our ears so that we can hear what you are saying. In JESUS NAME…

  8. roger perkins
    November 6th, 2008 at 2:10 pm

    I’m always amazed that those who fight the anti-jewelry message appeal to OT figurative verses to justify literal adornment. This is poor hermeneutics. Moreover, virtually every book that you quoted also contains very strong condemnation of ornamentation (Is. 3, Hosea, etc.). Yes, I agree that Scripture also disallows women braiding their hair, which is why we do not do so. That is, we desire to be as consistent as possible & not send a confusing mssg. to the world. Moreover, EVERY passage that you quoted from was OT, at which time humanity was not the temple of God. Why do we see absolutely NO ONE in the NT church wearing jewelry of any sort & also see plain verses against it, as you tried to render ineffective. No one would just read those verses in I Tim. & I Ptr. & gather that jewelry is okay w/ God, unless you have an agenda. See Deut. 7:25/Gen. 35 to see what God thinks about His people wearing the jewelry of the world. What so you think would’ve happened if Noah/Moses/Solomon would’ve placed ‘ornaments’ on the outside of these places which God explicitly instructed them to build? God is very peculiar about His dwelling places & this should cause the honest heart to excercise caution when it comes to such matters. Especially when God repeatedly condemns the LITERAL wearing of jewelry. Of course jewels have visual pleasure which is His point in Ezek., Hosea, Song, etc. But they’re not to be actually worn by His covenental people. In sum, it’s reveals poor scholastics to appeal to figurative/rhetorical verses in an attempt to render the literal/narrative ineffective. Jewelry is repeatedly linked to idolatry in the Bible, from God’s perspective. SO MUCH more to say, but I grow weary w/ this after awhile.

  9. Kayla
    November 6th, 2008 at 3:16 pm

    Roger,

    If God repeatedly condemns the wearing of jewelry why then does Jesus use jewelry as an example in one of his parables? See below referencing the prodigal son…

    Luke 15:21

    22″But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly bring out (D)the best robe and put it on him, and (E)put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet;

    Also there are a number of references in the OT…

    Gen 24:22-28 (When Abraham sent the servent to find a wife for Isaac)

    22 When the camels had finished drinking, the man took out a gold nose ring weighing a beka [d] and two gold bracelets weighing ten shekels. [e] 23 Then he asked, “Whose daughter are you? Please tell me, is there room in your father’s house for us to spend the night?”

    24 She answered him, “I am the daughter of Bethuel, the son that Milcah bore to Nahor.” 25 And she added, “We have plenty of straw and fodder, as well as room for you to spend the night.”

    26 Then the man bowed down and worshiped the LORD, 27 saying, “Praise be to the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who has not abandoned his kindness and faithfulness to my master. As for me, the LORD has led me on the journey to the house of my master’s relatives.”

    28 The girl ran and told her mother’s household about these things. 29 Now Rebekah had a brother named Laban, and he hurried out to the man at the spring. 30 As soon as he had seen the nose ring, and the bracelets on his sister’s arms, and had heard Rebekah tell what the man said to her, he went out to the man and found him standing by the camels near the spring. 31 “Come, you who are blessed by the LORD,” he said. “Why are you standing out here? I have prepared the house and a place for the camels.”

    and there are more but for the sake of time and space I will stop there. BUT I would like to say that I think the weighter matter is not the jewelry itself but rather where our affections lie. This is where the idolatry comes in to play. Not the objects themselves. Scripture declares that the love of money is root of all evil. Should we then disallow any use of money? Is the MONEY that is the point of contention or is it LOVE of that money.

    It all points back to matters of the heart. Unfortunately in today’s society there are many who put a great deal of their own sense of self worth in “things” but that does not automatically make “things” evil.

    If we get back to the core issue of discovering where our affections lie and make adjustments as needed in that area then I believe the rest will fall into place.

    The scriptures declare He will write his laws on our hearts. The Holy Spirit is perfectly capable of teaching, guiding, instructing and so forth. Why is that men feel like somehow they have to supplement the instruction of the Holy Spirit and the word of God?

    Kayla

  10. Josh
    November 6th, 2008 at 5:50 pm

    Roger, while I disagree with your perspective on jewelry, I comment you on teaching a consistent message (I.e., preaching against braiding of hair as well as against jewelry).

    You are also correct in saying that using literal and figurative passages to override literal ones is poor hermeneutics. If that is what I were doing, then I would be wrong. However, I am not convinced that 1 Tim. 2:8-10 and 1 Pet. 3:1-5 were ever meant to be literal commands against wearing gold or pearls or expensive clothes or braiding hair. It is clear that you disagree, though, so I will not debate the point with you.

    P.S. – I edited your comment to remove your phone number, since this site is crawled by all major search engines.

    God bless.

  11. Kim
    May 6th, 2009 at 11:45 am

    I am Apostolic Pentecostal myself and really don’t understand what the fuss is about. If you entered the Army today they would tell you what you can and can not wear, if you joined a country club they have rules and people follow them gladly but when GOD ask everyone has a problem with it. Is it because we can’t see this spirit that is demanding so much? In order to serve GOD you have to believe the whole bible not portions or pick in choose what you want to do. Your either on the Lords side or your on the devils side. As far as the standards of the church when you receive the gift of the Holy Ghost all things become new. Standards aren’t so we can say that we are holier than anyone else it is what sets us apart from the world which is what the bible said to do. Women are suppose to look modest and not flaunt what they got especially if your married. We all know that the world looks on the church and they know when something isn’t right we are lights to the world and if we are going to look like them and act like them what hope do they have. They are suppose to see Christ through us not our fleshly ways. Bottom line is if you want to be saved and right with GOD it is a decision to make you either hold on to worldly things that matter and you can’t take them with you or you jump in with both feet and don’t look back (remember Lots wife).

  12. Dee
    May 13th, 2009 at 4:22 pm

    Yes we are supposed to look diff. than the world . Wow people make suchh a big deal about makeup , jewerly etc.
    Worry about inside more! God will lead you to your convictions.
    Get the heart right with him and he will direct you. One isnt more ‘holy’ than the other because they wear some makeup or w.e.
    Wanted to get that straight.
    Gb Dee

  13. Pradeesh
    May 30th, 2009 at 2:19 pm

    Theres nothin wrong in wht u said..bt a small response to sis Noel…hey in NT ther is a verse sayin..am nt sure of the reference since i access the site thru my mobile..n while am outsid..the verse says “suppose a man comes to ur church wearin fine clothes and a ring….” this verse is said to the church only bcoz they wore ornaments..else the author need not say that ..if church prohibited the usage…they wudnt give a gud place to the person who wore a gold ring…got it…every verse in the bible is holy and the intention of command must b considered..if jewelry ws a sin Jesus wud ve told all those women who seeked forgiveness especially adulterous women to get rid of jewels at first..rather Jesus saw her inner repentance..for eg..if Jesus wanted wz lukin at outward factors He wud never have told abt the women who gave her all posession she had althoug it wz much less than all others’ ..so brothers n sisters rather than just arguin on the points n verses..lets keep our hearts away frm all those things tht r fruits of flesh as said in Galatians…whatever be it outside its our inner soul tht matters..as Jesus told disciples whn they pointed out the one who never washed his hand be4 eatin…for any doubts mail me pradeesh_777@yahoo.com…am nt a bible scholar..bt i cud answer.hopefully..God bless all…

  14. Dee
    June 24th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

    Exactly… inside is what matters and being diff from the world in the fruits we bare not the look … get your heart straight thats what god looks at and cares about!!! HEART !! not your appearance .. now thats your choice… u do have to be appropriate tough… i know my friends church is penecostal and she has a holy ghost and she has short hair and wears pants so if theres something wrong with it she wouldnt have it ! Some of the ppl are so critical off all that and what they do is push ppl away. Jesus accepted all ! No matter who you were or what you looked like . Everyones diff has diff. styles and god accepts that and people should to or they will have to answer not to me or you but to god himself . gb everyone
    peace!

  15. Shine Mathew
    August 24th, 2009 at 9:05 am

    Whether Jesus and his apostles wear ornaments? no evidence in bible for that, also true christians are supposed to be pure inside aswellas outside,not only inside.Many are stressing more on inside purity and not success always do wearing ornaments and makeups which makes attraction on their body by others. Thats what God says ornaments are the reason for sin,so if we wear the sin occuring things it wont please God.Better to avoid make ups and other ways of making beauty of our own body that makes other people sin by looking to the beauty and get attracting.

  16. TRUTH is FREEDOM
    August 25th, 2009 at 8:16 am

    So Daniel is a sinner because he wore the chain given to him by the king of babylon? And also Rebekah, the wife of Isaac, because he was also given jewelries by the servant of Abraham. So both of them are sinning? Can you please understand I Peter 3:3-4? Inside adornment is better than wearing gold, or plaiting the hair and wearing of an apparel. It did not say that it is a sin to wear gold. If wearing golds, plaiting the hair are both sin, then putting on an apparel is a sin also? WHAT A THEOLOGY DUDE? I can’t imagine my sister in Christ or even my mother going to church without any dress. That would be the sin! By the way Matthew, are you still serving the UPC?Well, hope you have enlightened by the verses I have shown you above. By the way I’m a UPCers but I’m against the teachings of our church. God bless you!!!

  17. Ty Morrison
    September 30th, 2009 at 7:59 am

    If it is possible that Peter or Paul are simply using jewelry to make a broader point, the O.T. texts sited in your expose’ likewise suggest that jewelry is being used to make a broader point.

  18. Luis F
    October 10th, 2009 at 2:56 am

    The verses regarding jewelery are metaphorical..you cant see that?….your manipulating it to prove your point…he dressed us in jewels to encourage us and let us know we are of a ROYAL PRIESTHOOD. our earthly gold is the lords pavement. The churches dont let people wear gold because people go crazy with it. Dont do this to the word of God.

  19. jenny
    November 4th, 2009 at 12:38 pm

    i think wearing jewelry is ok. as long is not a lot if jewelry. same goes to makeups. as long you don’t look like a clown. you’ll be ok.

  20. P Abraham
    November 5th, 2009 at 3:53 pm

    Many pentecostal churches around the world advise not to wear ornaments. Some new believers may think why this is so? So it’s good to understand what bible says about this.

    1) Jesus himself commanded us to avoid ornaments.
    ———————————————————————————
    Most people say that there is no command from Jesus asking us not to wear ornaments, however Jesus commanded us not do so.

    1 Timothy is special, because the whole letter is a command from Jesus.

    1 Timothy 1 : 1,2

    1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the “command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus” our hope,
    2 To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
    Paul is writing this letter to Timothy by the command of Jesus.

    1 Timothy 2: 9, 10

    9 I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes,
    10 but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.

    A Simple example is good to understand this better,
    Say , “Dressing” is an Exam “ornaments” Pencils and “Good deeds” pens.
    Say, you have university exam and you have sharpened your pencils and went to write the exam. When you got the question paper you read the instruction as “WHEN YOU MARK THE ANSWERS DO NOT USE PENCIL BUT PEN”

    What will you do?
    Will you think that it’s instructed there because some people use non HB pencils or light pencils so the answers will not be clear?

    Will you use pencil here because you are having 4HB dark pencil ?

    If you are a person with commonsense you will only use PEN.

    So Jesus commanded through Paul to the church to avoid braided hair, gold, pearls and expensive clothes but use good deeds so that God may consider your worship worthy.

    Also 1 peter 3: 3,4 says
    3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes.
    4 Instead, 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.

    Peter again says that gold or silver is perishable

    1 Peter 1:18

    For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers.

    2) In Old Testment God commanded Israelites to avoid gold.
    ————————————————————————————
    Old Testment seems to be not against gold because God said Moses to use gold for building “The Ark” Exodus 25. Also God considered gold as a blessing in Deuteronomy 8: 13

    However God did not like ornaments so he commanded Israelite’s to remove their ornaments.

    Exodus 33: 4, 5, 6
    4 When the people heard these distressing words, they began to mourn and no one put on any ornaments.
    5 For the LORD had said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites, ‘You are a stiff-necked people. If I were to go with you even for a moment, I might destroy you.
    Now take off your ornaments and I will decide what to do with you.’ ”
    6 So the Israelites stripped off their ornaments at Mount Horeb.

    Revelation also mentions about golden altar, crowns of gold, golden bowls etc.. Rev 9, 15 but nothing related to ornaments however there is another person who wears gold

    Revelation 17:4
    The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and was glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls. She held a golden cup in her hand, filled with abominable things and the filth of her adulteries.

    She is referred to as “great prostitute”.

    3) Avoiding risk
    ——————————————————————————–
    Its better not to take any risk in the glorious salvation by wearing ornaments.

    What if Jesus counts us guilty if we wear ornaments by denying his command?

    The good part is that Jesus will not condemn us of not wearing any ornaments.

    Also Christ suffered and paid a huge price for us and delivered us from sin and hell, so should ornaments matter much?

    Christ avoided his throne came to the earth and suffered his entire life, just for you. And believers Sing “Amazing Grace, do not want to set apart from all the worldly passions and are searching for loop holes in God’s Word to do so.

  21. someone
    December 21st, 2009 at 9:06 am

    According to what i’ve read it seems that the Bible doesn’t completely oppose jewelry but that we shouldn’t let it get in the way of God. But i did more studying and the Bible doesn’t support the piercing of the body or putting tattoos on the body. read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, and Leviticus 19:28 and it makes it pretty clear we are not to pierce the body. but every one should do what they feel they are convicted of. every one is at different places in the walk with God

  22. samy
    December 28th, 2009 at 2:40 pm

    These above comment by all the friends were really informative. i for the same reason was really searching for the relevant verses in bible which supports or rejects the use ornaments. i go to pentecostal church, where ornaments are considered somehting that god hates and doesnot allow a person adorned in jewllery to take part in bread breaking. but at the same time these same people crave more for all expensive thing that the world gives.these same people keep buying properties after properties. this act made me think of what they preach. today i am in pursuit of a clear guidance from the holy spirit on this issue.

  23. Phara
    January 9th, 2010 at 1:06 am

    Hi Josh,first of I want to start by saying may God continue to bless and guide you in all that you do. Upon doing some research on some debatable issues I was thankful I found your website. I am a young aduly (19) who grew up in an Evangelican church.Im am trying to learned the scripture as is intended. Although growing up my father wore jewlery, as he got older and became a christian and had kids he told us kids that we should not wear jewlery. I believe he told us this based on one pastor preachings on the issue. So we never were allowed, however as I started getting older I wanted to really research this on my own, although my dad did once show me a verse when I was younger I dont remember which one it was, It sounds like it might of been one the example you mentioned above, but taken in a literal sense. Which I couldnt settle for I felt there was more to it, and Like I said I am a young adult insearch of a closer connection with God and a better understanding of his scripture. I do wear jewlery now, in moderation and my dad for some reason doesnt even care now. I know it’s not because he doesnt care, I think its because he realizes the true importance. I think what matters is God, meaning all these things (wearing Jewlery,pants,make up) should not be the focus of our lives, God should be our only focus, I believe it’s when we start idolizing these objects is when its wrong.Give God the attention he deserve, and keep the little things like fine piece of jewlery in moderation. If I am wrong please correct me. When the scripture talks about standing out I do believe it talks about outward appearence, but I dont think it has anything about wearing jewlery or no jewlery, pants or no pants.It’s how we carry ourselves, thats what folks notice. In my opinion I dont think wearing a necklace or not makes you stand out as a christian or not. I really think it’s about moderation.Like eating which isnt a sin, but over eating/ with too much eagerness is considered gluttony much like greed. Please orrect me if Im wrong. Thus all I can say is in all that we do we need to put God first and all else pray and ask God and read his scripture for yourself, there the TRUTH lies.
    To Josh what is your thoughts on piercings?
    Thanks again you’ve a been great help
    GOD BLESS!!!

  24. Josh (Site Admin)
    January 16th, 2010 at 12:07 pm

    Hi Phara, and thanks for writing!

    You asked what my thoughts on piercings are, and I’ll answer to the best of my ability.

    I cannot find anything in the Bible to indicate piercings are wrong.

    The verse that someone cited above (Leviticus 19:28) deals with “cuts for the dead” (NASB) so it has nothing to do with piercings unless you are making them in honor of dead people! Even if you were, that is part of the Old Testament law and it no longer applies to us today, any more than the command to “not round off the side-growth of your heads nor harm the edges of your beard” (Leviticus 19:27) applies. Leviticus 21:5 also prohibits “cuts in their flesh,” but that command is directed specifically to the Old Testament priests. It is also part of the Old Testament law and so it no longer applies to us.

    NOTE: There are parts of the Old Testament law that still apply to us today. These parts are commonly called the “moral law” and involve things like murder, lying, homosexuality, etc. However, Leviticus 19:28 is not one of those passages. Again, even if it were, the command against “cuts in your body” only applies if you are making them “for the dead.”

    By the same token, it is hard to argue that 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 means that a person should not get piercings. That passage is a command against having sex with prostitutes, and it has absolutely nothing to do with piercings. Even in a more general sense it is hard to argue that getting piercings somehow defiles your body. There is just no Scriptural evidence to support that piercings are wrong.

    With that said, I think piercings should be viewed just like jewelry or make-up. They are not wrong in and of themselves, but our primary focus should be on adorning ourselves with good works (1 Timothy 2:10). Vanity should be avoided and a “quiet and gentle” spirit embraced (1 Peter 3:4).

    So in summary, I cannot find any Scripture that prohibits piercings. The only caution I give–to both women and men–is to avoid vanity and embrace moderation.

    I hope that helps =)

    God bless,
    - Josh S.

  25. TRUTH is FREEDOM
    January 18th, 2010 at 11:37 pm

    Josh, what can you say about tattoo?

  26. Josh (Site Admin)
    January 21st, 2010 at 12:39 pm

    Hey Truth is Freedom, I am unaware of any biblical basis for not getting tattoos. Leviticus 19:28 commands against tattoos, but that is part of the Old Testament law that does not apply to us today.

    I encourage people to pray about the subject and make their own conclusions.

    The only opinion that I have about tattoos is that a person should follow biblical guidelines of modesty and moderation. We are to be modest in all things, and we are to show moderation in all things. Our bodies are temples to God, so I think we should think carefully before making any permanent markings on them. When I say that we should “think carefully” I do NOT mean that I think tattoos are wrong. In fact, I don’t have a problem with tattoos. I am only saying that I think we should carefully consider making permanent markings on our bodies that the rest of the world can see. I think we should consider how Christians and non-Christians will react, how the tattoos will be perceived, etc. Again, though, there are no biblical commandments on the subject, so the things I just said are my own opinions.

    I hope that helps!

    - Josh S.

  27. Toby
    February 1st, 2010 at 3:39 pm

    About Jewelry

    I am going back to when God made Adam and Eve and put them in the garden. I think i am safe in saying that i dont think God put Eve in the garden with jewelry on her.
    It was Golden Earring’s that was used to make the Golden Calf-Exodus-32:2. It was Silver that Judas used to put Jesus on the Cross. In the Old Testament Gold was a needful substance in making of the Tabernacle and the Ark carrying the Ten Commandment’s and some Temple’s of Worship.

    That is not so in today’s time. Have very many people noticed,especialy people who say that they are Christain’s, how that ,Jewlry is mentioned quit a bit in the Old Testament . But only twice in the New Testament, Jame’s 2;2 Rich man favored over the Poor Man,and The Prodical Son,Luke 15;22.
    Matthew 23:25-26,That the outside may be clean also. When the Holy Spirit comes in and guides in our lives we give up the worldly lusts of the eyes. Deuteronomy 14:2 the Lord hath chosen thee to be a Peculiar People unto himself. Can any one in todays time tell by looking at People Professing Godliness, that they look any different from the Wordly People. I think not. Do they look Peculiar? I think not.
    Jewelry is worn in vain to be noticed or to look pretty.
    What is the Purpose of wearing Jewelry if not to impress other people?

  28. Samuel
    February 14th, 2010 at 1:27 pm

    I understand what your teaching is and I see the same has my Pastor taught years ago. but are you still apostolic? there are Apostolic churches that wear jewelry in modesty and pants in modesty as well as make up in modesty. go to the PAW or other Apostolic churches. this is where I came from. Are you still Oness or are you a trinitarian or dualism?

    Please tell me if you have been baptized in Jesus name and filled with the holyghost with the evidence of speaking in other tounges? You taught this lesson well on pants, jewelry. everything we do should be in modesty. You have womens pants and mens pants. briches were the priest under garment.

    A tatoo can open a portal to deamons. body pearsing as well is against Gods law. let not your good be evil spoken of even if it is old testement. you can look like a pagan or you can look like a saint of God, we have got to be modest in all things. let us not be vain, or operate in the flesh. We should not be carnaly minded. our laws are based on the bible here in the USA but they are doing away with the right laws. it is old testement laws but it still applys in our judicial system because it is Gods moral law.

  29. another view
    February 17th, 2010 at 7:19 am

    Introduction
    I am intrigued by clever oxymorons. An oxymoron is a statement or pairing of two words that contradict each other, such as “black light” or “pretty ugly.” A few humorous, personal favorites are “military intelligence,” “criminal justice,” “civil disorder,” and “rap music” (the rap I’ve heard does not even slightly resemble music). Some oxymorons are more serious, like “little sin,” “innocent gossip,” and “safe premarital sex.”
    A few years ago, while wandering through a Christian bookstore, I came upon a glass display case with a sign above it that read “Christian Jewelry.” I thought to myself, “Now there’s another intriguing oxymoron-something like ‘Christian rock.’” How can jewelry be Christian when the Bible strongly admonishes believers not to wear it? Clearly, “Christian jewelry” is a conflict in terms.
    I realize this topic has been hotly debated within recent years, but my purpose is not to pour fuel on the fire. I hope to shed light, not heat. My desire is for people to find their faith and practice in the Word of God. The Scriptures plainly address the subject of a Christian’s external appearance and adornment. But unfortunately, many churches are strangely silent on this subject.
    Jewelry has been described by some as a small issue. No doubt someone is thinking, “With all the problems in the church, why would you want to focus on something so insignificant and widely accepted?” Well, friends, remember that Jesus said, “For that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” Luke 16:15. Often, it is the things that seem small on the surface that have major implications. And I believe this is just such an issue.
    There are unseen and subtle dangers connected with the wearing of jewelry. So if you are a converted Christian who seeks to know how to better reflect the Lord in these last days, please keep your mind open as we reason together from the Scriptures.
    The Fruit, Not the Root!
    The power of the gospel begins on the inside, transforming the heart while unseen by human eyes. But then it continues to flow and seep into every area of the life, producing obvious external changes. Just like a plant, the seed first comes to life below the earth. But if the root is healthy, the plant will soon become visible and bear fruit above ground. Jesus said, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” Matthew 7:20.
    Notice that He did not say you will know them by their roots that grow underground. He said the fruit, not the root! Therefore, we are commanded to be aware of the external, visible evidence of our faith.
    When a person accepts Christ as Lord, the Holy Spirit begins impressing that individual to make dramatic adjustments. There will often be changes in what appears on the table during dinner and on the television after supper. (In fact, He may lead some to get rid of the television altogether.) From the bookshelf to the closet, Jesus will penetrate the whole life. When He is in the heart, He influences every other area.
    This is a basic teaching of Christianity. The apostle Paul warned Titus of those who “profess that they know God; but in works they deny him.” Titus 1:16. And James is crystal clear that a relationship rooted in Jesus will produce external evidence. “Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.” James 2:18. You can’t be a Christian in your heart without it showing on the outside.
    God’s Ambassadors
    We, the Church, are the hands and feet, the eyes and mouth, and yes, even the ears of Jesus in the world today. We are the Body of Christ. Our Lord said, “As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” John 20:21.
    We have been sent into the world to demonstrate who Jesus is and what He is like. Through the Holy Spirit we become His representatives-to reflect His image in everything from the way we talk and work to the way we eat and dress. In 2 Corinthians 3:18, God says that “we all … are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.”
    A few years ago, shameful scandals surrounded several well-known television evangelists in North America. Those opposed to Christianity rejoiced, mocking the immorality and hypocrisy exhibited in the lives of these men and their wives who professed to speak for Jesus. During this tragic time, the secular media often made reference to their flamboyant dress and gaudy jewelry as proof that these professed Christians were not genuine. These inconsistant TV preachers even inspired one famous musician to write a popular song entitled “Would Jesus Wear a Rolex?” I’m sure angels wept as Christian leaders, due to their immodest appearance, became a deserving target for the lost. It is a sad day indeed when Christians win the medal for opulent external adornment!
    Wearing Our Wealth
    Let’s take a look at the origin of jewelry. God made all of the gold, silver, and precious jewels in the world, and He intended for them to have a practical use. Since even small amounts of these minerals are so rare and valuable, long ago they began to be used as money.
    Over time, people began wearing their money in order to impress others with their wealth. When shoppers went to the market to buy an expensive item, they would simply pull off one of their rings or bracelets to pay.
    After Rebecca had watered the camels for Abraham’s servant, the Bible says that he paid her in this way. “And it came to pass, as the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden earring of half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of gold.” Genesis 24:22.
    When the children of Israel brought an offering to the Lord to build the tabernacle, they used the jewels they had received from the Egyptians. It was their money. “And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing hearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold: and every man that offered offered an offering of gold unto the Lord.” Exodus 35:22.
    There is obviously nothing wrong with having money. But the question is, does God want Christians to wear their wealth for all to see? Of course not. “The love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith.” 1 Timothy 6:10. Since it is a sin to covet, why would you want to entice a brother or sister to covet your money by wearing it for all to see? What could possibly be the motive for a Christian to do this?
    The reason gold and jewels are so valuable is that they are rare and expensive to mine from the earth. Angels must marvel when they see us put on jewelry to signify value and wealth. In heaven, gold is used for pavement, and diamonds are the stones that form the walls of its mansions! Just think of it. From heaven’s perspective, gold is asphalt and diamonds are blocks! How silly it must appear to heavenly beings when we dangle asphalt and bricks on our ears and wrap them around our fingers. Wouldn’t you look twice if someone walked into your church next week wearing a black asphalt pendant and a matching tar ring?
    In evangelism, I’ve met many sincere people who had attended the popular churches in their towns only to turn away disappointed because they discerned a spirit of pride and display among the members. These genuine seekers of God entered the sanctuary hoping to find a church home, but instead they found extravagance with which they could not compete.
    How happy I’ve been to offer them a church where the wealthy and the poor choose not to parade their status by wearing fancy clothing and jewelry. These individuals have been thrilled to worship where they don’t feel that they’re looked down on if they don’t wear the latest fashions. I hope that my church will always stay with the Bible truth on this subject. We have too much to lose otherwise.
    Justified Jewelry?
    Those who seek to justify the wearing of jewelry usually point to Bible stories in which God’s children wore gold, silver, or jewels. For example, the Scriptures report with no comment that Joseph wore a ring and “a gold chain about his neck” (Genesis 41:42), that Saul wore a bracelet (2 Samuel 1:10), that Mordecai was given a ring by Ahasuerus (Esther 8:2), and that King Belshazzar gave Daniel a scarlet robe and “put a chain of gold about his neck” (Daniel 5:29).
    But, remember, just because we see something done in Bible times does not mean that God condoned it. The Scriptures simply record a faithful history of God’s people-including all their failures. Noah drank wine and became drunk (Genesis 9:20, 21). Lot had sex with his daughters and got them pregnant (Genesis 19:30-38). Judah hired a prostitute for a night, impregnated her, and later discovered she was his daughter-in-law (Genesis 38:12-26). We cannot assume that God condones such unsavory practices just because these incidents were mentioned in the Bible. Other passages of Scripture clearly tell us that God condemns alcohol, incest, prostitution, and jewelry as anti-productive to accomplishing His purposes for humanity.
    One story that is often cited to justify jewelry is that of the prodigal son. Since the father “put a ring on his hand,” some say that we can assume God wants us to wear jewelry. Obviously, as we’ve just seen, this parable is not an inspired comment on whether Christians should wear rings. Furthermore, the ring the father gave his son was most likely a signet ring. Signet rings contained the family seal. People used them to press this unique seal onto official documents. It was the family’s signature. Rather than an ornament for display, signet rings were a tool for officiating documents and were usually worn on the index finger.
    Before the prodigal son left home, he asked his father for his share of the inheritance. Once he received his money and goods, he left home to spend it all on “riotous living.” Luke 15:13. Out of money and destitute, the foolish prodigal later found himself flat broke, hungry, and poorly clad. In desperation he returned home, trusting in the goodness of his father to at least take him in as a servant. The prodigal felt that he no longer deserved to be a son, since he had squandered half of his father’s hard-earned savings.
    But instead of rejection, his father showed him unlimited acceptance. He replaced the prodigal’s rags with a comfortable and clean robe and put shoes on his bare feet. He filled his son’s empty stomach with a feast. And to the son who just wasted his riches, this father gave the signet ring-the family checkbook- with free access to his remaining fortune.
    Why Be a Stumbling Block?
    One reason I do not drink any alcohol is because one person in seven who imbibes will eventually become an alcoholic. Even though I might be able to drink moderately, I do not want my bad example to cause another person’s downfall-especially for something so unnecessary as intoxicating beverages.
    The same principle holds true for jewelry. We have all seen people who cover themselves with gold and precious jewels-gem-aholics, if you will. Most people who wear lots of jewelry do not sense their personal worth. They hope to feel more valuable by covering themselves with expensive articles. Others believe they are unattractive and hope to increase their perceived beauty by adorning themselves with beautiful gems. They can’t control themselves. They think that if one is good, then 10 would be better. (Just for the record, I have never heard a man say: “Isn’t she beautiful? Just look at her jewelry!”) I’m sure everyone would agree that there is a point when enough is enough!
    Well, here is the big question. What is that point? If it’s okay for women to wear earrings, then who is to say it’s wrong for men? If one ring or earring is acceptable, then why not three or four? If the laymen can wear jewelry, why not the clergy? If a ring in the ear is all right, then what’s wrong with a bone in the nose?
    Perhaps you have noticed the modern craze of body piercing. Four earrings in one ear and rings in the nose with a chain between them. People are now piercing their flesh and wearing rings in their eyebrows, navels, tongues, and other places we can’t mention in a Christian publication. Why would a Christian want to be a stumbling block for someone else and encourage this trend by wearing any jewelry? It’s all unnecessary. Especially for people who are preparing to meet Jesus.
    Speaking of people living in the time of the end, the prophet Ezekiel warns, “They shall cast their silver in the streets, and their gold shall be removed: their silver and their gold shall not be able to deliver them in the day of the wrath of the Lord: they shall not satisfy their souls, neither fill their bowels: because it is the stumblingblock of their iniquity.” Ezekiel 7:19.
    If I were to wear any jewelry, I would instantly open the floodgates of inconsistency by my example and cause many to stumble. If I really love my brother, why would I insist on taking that risk for something so frivolous and unnecessary as jewelry?
    Whenever you are unsure about which course to take on a spiritual issue, take the safe position. I know that on the judgment day, God will not condemn anyone for not wearing enough jewelry. So the safe thing is to not wear any.
    Modesty and Humility
    The original purpose for clothing was to cover the nakedness of our first parents. Adam and Eve never would have dreamed of hanging gold or silver on their bodies to accent their fig leaves! Clothing was for modesty and to protect them from the changing climate. Someday God will place a golden crown of victory on the brow of the overcomers. Yet even then the saved will remove their golden crowns in God’s presence (Revelation 4:10, 11).
    Notice what God told the prophet Isaiah about jewelry and fancy clothing. “Moreover the Lord says: ‘Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, And walk with outstretched necks And wanton [seductive] eyes, Walking and mincing [swaying] as they go, …’ In that day the Lord will take away the finery: The jingling anklets, the scarves, and the crescents; The pendants, the bracelets, and the veils; The headdresses, the leg ornaments, and the headbands; The perfume boxes, the charms, and the rings; The nose jewels, the festal apparel, and the mantles; The outer garments, the purses, and the mirrors; The fine linen, the turbans, and the robes.” Isaiah 3:16-23, NKJV. A woman in Bible prophecy symbolizes a church. In this prophecy, the women (churches) were to be severely judged because of their pride, which is directly connected with external adornment.
    Because we wrestle with sin and temptation, now is not the right time to glorify our exteriors. The supreme goal of the Christian is to attract attention to Christ, not to self. Decorating our mortal bodies with glittering gems and minerals usually springs from pride and is diametrically opposed to the spirit and principles of Jesus. “And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:12.
    Pride of appearance was a large factor in Lucifer’s fall and rebellion. When God originally created Lucifer as a perfect angel, He gave every precious stone as his garments-”the sardius, topaz, and the diamond, the beryl, the onyx, and the jasper, the sapphire, the emerald, and the carbuncle, and gold.” Ezekiel 28:13.
    Unfortunately, Lucifer chose to misappropriate God’s gifts. Filled with pride, he decided he was beautiful enough to have God’s place on the throne of the universe. “Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness.” Ezekiel 28:17. Pride led to rebellion. Rebellion led to war in heaven. And war in heaven led to sin on earth.
    Ever since Adam and Eve’s fall into sin, we humans have had to struggle with the same sinful nature that has pride at its root. God, therefore, has commanded us to not wear jewelry. In our sinful condition, we are no better able to resist the tendency to sinful pride than was Lucifer. When our physical bodies are changed at the second coming of Jesus, we will no longer be tempted to sin. Only then will Jesus consider it safe to place a crown of gold on our heads.
    So until then, we would do well to follow the counsel given by the apostle Paul on the subject of adornment: “In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.” 1 Timothy 2:9, 10, NKJV.
    Poor “Investments”
    Christians are to be faithful stewards of the means God entrusts to their care. Some display gems on their bodies that, if sold, could build an entire church in the mission field. Our money should be spent to spread the gospel in a practical, effective way. The Lord asks, “Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread?” Isaiah 55:2. (See also Matthew 6:19-21.)
    No doubt you will find glaring examples among church members (and in churches) where money has been squandered on some needless extravagance. I confess that I too have been guilty of this. But one inconsis-tency never justifies another. God’s money should not be spent for parading diamonds and gold or even cheap costume jewelry. All the jewelry will melt when Jesus comes, and I would prefer not to be wearing any when that happens!
    The Bible declares the folly of such “investments” in James 5:3: “Your gold and silver is cankered [corroded]; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days.” The only valuables going to heaven will be transformed people.
    Little Idols
    When I present the Bible truth regarding jewelry, I rarely hear complaints from those who are newly converted. But the folks who have been in the church for years will often pout and argue, “Doug, it is such a little thing!” My response is, “If it is such a little thing, then why is it so hard for you to take it off?” A little gold or silver can become a big idol.
    Perhaps the most striking demonstration of this fact was the experience of the Israelites with the golden calf. The Bible records: “And Aaron said unto them, Break off the golden earrings, which are in the ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them unto me. And all the people brake off the golden earrings which were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron. And he received them at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made it a molten calf: and they said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.” Exodus 32:2-4.
    When the children of Israel passed the offering plate, they had enough jewelry to make a small calf. I fear that if we were to pass the plate today in the churches of those who profess to follow God’s Word, we would have enough jewelry to make a whole golden buffalo!
    After the golden calf experience, God commanded the people to remove their jewelry lest they be consumed. “For the Lord had said unto Moses, Say unto the children ofIsrael, Ye are a stiff-necked people: I will come up into the midst of thee in a moment, and consume thee: therefore now put off thy ornaments from thee, that I may know what to do unto thee. And the children of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments by the mount Horeb.” Exodus 33:5, 6.
    Notice the similar warning God gives to His people living in the last days: “In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; To go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the rugged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth.” Isaiah 2:20, 21.
    Dressing for the Occasion
    There was a time when God winked at the wearing of jewelry and other evils such as slavery and polygamy. It was not because He approved of these practices, but because His people had bigger problems to deal with at that point in time.
    Acts 17:30, 31 tells us: “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent.” Why? “Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness.”
    We are living in the days just before the coming of Jesus-a time in which the church is being judged. “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God.” 1 Peter 4:17.
    As an illustration of the judgment process, God gave to His people the Day of Atonement. It fell on the tenth day of the seventh month in the Jewish year and was a solemn day on which the Lord would sanctify and judge the children of Israel. In preparation, the people conducted a thorough personal examination. They were filled with an attitude of confession, repentance, and humility. “For it is the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the Lord your God. For any person who is not afflicted in soul on that same day shall be cut off from his people.” Leviticus 23:28, 29, NKJV. On the Day of Atonement, the High Priest — who normally wore a jeweled vest and fine garments that were symbolic of the glories of heaven — changed into a simple, white linen robe. It is his plain dress that we should emulate, because we live during the prophetic Day of Atonement. Just as the entire camp of Israel was required to clean and change their clothes on Judgment Day, so are we who live in the judgment hour just before Jesus returns to earth called to purify our hearts and to separate ourselves from all pagan influences.
    Other Bible stories further illustrate how people changed their dress when they prepared to meet God. Here is one from Genesis 35:1-4: “And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother. Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange [foreign] gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments: And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went. And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand, and all their earrings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which was by Shechem.”
    We can learn two very important lessons from this story. First, notice that the foreign gods and jewelry were classified and buried together. Pagan worship and jewelry have always enjoyed a close association. And in order for Jacob and his household to commune with God, they had to abandon all such influences. Thus God ordered Jacob to make not a temporary removal of these articles, but a permanent burial.
    Secondly, the word Bethel means “House of God.” We are now living in the time of judgment and are preparing to meet with the Almighty in His heavenly house. Now is not the time to adorn our mortal exteriors. Before we go there, God wants us to separate from the things of this world that will compromise our relationship with Him. “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” 2 Corinthians 6:17.
    We Are God’s Temple
    The most beautiful building of antiquity was the temple of God built by King Solomon. Its exterior was covered with precious, pure white marble stones. Interestingly enough, the gold was on the inside of the temple. The Bible says that this is a good pattern for living temples, as well. “Your beauty should reside, not in outward adornment — the braiding of the hair, or jewelry, or dress — but in the inmost centre of your being, with its imperishable ornament, a gentle, quiet spirit, which is of high value in the sight of God.” 1 Peter 3:3, 4, NEB. Like Solomon’s temple of old, our gold should be on the inside!
    Friend, your body was made by God in His image. To try to improve human appearance by poking holes in the ears or nose from which to dangle lifeless minerals would be like trying to improve on the perfect beauty of Solomon’s temple by releasing a street gang in the marble courtyard and telling them to express themselves with spray paint. “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God.” 2 Corinthians 6:16.
    I believe angels turn away their faces and weep when professed Christians pierce, scar, chain, mutilate, and tattoo their bodies as a sacrifice to the gods of fad and fashion. God plainly says of His people: “They shall not make … any cuttings in their flesh. They shall be holy unto their God.” Leviticus 21:5, 6. And if God says we should not cut our bodies, what makes us think that piercing the ears is somehow permissible?
    “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” 1 Corinthians 3:16, 17. In essence, you should not poke holes in priceless marble. Our bodies are to be holy, not full of holes.
    The Bible principles against the wearing of jewelry have been a blessing to God’s cause. They are liberating to the members. God’s people have more money to spend on sharing the gospel and relieving the needs of suffering people. They are freed from feelings of insecurity. No longer do men need to worry about whether the ring they give their wife or girlfriend is large enough or makes a big enough social statement. And women don’t have to invest an ounce of emotional energy in comparing their jewelry with others. God’s standard has been a tremendous blessing, and we need to keep it!
    First Appearances Do Count!
    Two symbolic women appear in Revelation chapters 12 and 17. They represent the two great religious powers that are in conflict throughout church history. Although neither of them ever speaks, we know that one is true and one is false. How? The primary way the Bible identifies who they are is by what they are wearing.
    Revelation 12:1 says, “And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars.” The first woman, who represents God’s church, is wearing natural light. His church is clothed with the pure, unadulterated light that He made.
    By contrast the second woman, who represents an apostate church, is bedecked with jewelry and fine apparel. Her beauty is external and artificial. Revelation 17:4 says, “The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet color, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication.”
    Obviously these things are associated with an appearance of evil, and we are commanded to “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:22.
    Jesus Himself commanded: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16. God’s Word tells us to let our inner light (not our external jewels) shine so that others might see our works (not our wealth) and glorify God (not ourselves).
    Wedding Rings?
    At this point someone might be wondering, “What about a wedding ring?”
    Very simply, support for the wedding ring cannot be found anywhere in Scripture. The Bible doesn’t say that some rings can be worn and that others shouldn’t. It simply includes rings in a long list of jewelry and ornamental clothing.
    The wearing of wedding rings is strictly a tradition that springs from paganism and has since been embraced and “baptized” by many churches. Cardinal John Henry Newman points out that the wedding ring, along with many other pagan customs, infiltrated Christianity through the compromising influence of his church. “The use of temples, and these dedicated to particular saints, and ornamented on occasions with branches of trees; incense, lamps, candles; votive offerings on recovery from illness; holy water; asylums; holy days and seasons, use of calendars, processions, blessings on the fields; sacerdotal vestments, the tonsure, the ring in marriage, turning to the east, images at a later date … are all of pagan origin, and sanctified by their adoption into the Church.” 1
    Of course, today we have found the wedding ring to be a deeply ingrained tradition. But if sincere seekers of God’s will study this topic and are convicted to remove all jewelry, God will give them the grace to follow Him above tradition. “And he [Jesus] said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” Mark 7:9.
    Christ Is Our Example
    I’ve also been asked many times if wearing a cross would be okay. Well, Jesus never asked us to wear the cross. He asks us to bear the cross. Taking up our cross and following Jesus is much more challenging than wearing a bumper sticker, tee shirt, or little golden cross as frivolous advertising. Jesus said that bearing the cross means a Christian will “deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” Luke 9:23.
    Whenever in doubt, ask this question: “What would Jesus do?” If we follow Jesus we are always safe. Personally, I cannot picture my Jesus drilling holes in His ears, nose, or anywhere else in order to hang glittering minerals from His extremities. The example of Jesus in the Scriptures is consistently one of practical simplicity and modesty. When He was crucified, the Roman soldiers divided his garments among themselves. Notice that they did not cast lots for His jewelry. He didn’t have any. Instead, they had to settle for His most valuable piece of clothing — a modest, seamless tunic (John 19:23, 24).
    Here is a message that bears repeating. When we love Jesus, we will want to follow His example. “He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.” 1 John 2:6, NKJV.
    Change of Ownership
    In the small town where I used to live, there was a house that was well known for its dilapidated appearance. Broken-down trucks, garbage, and miscellaneous junk cluttered the yard. The peeling paint, broken windows, and hungry yard dogs were an embarrassment to the entire community. Then one day, after taking an extended trip, I drove back through town and was stunned by the dramatic change that had come over this infamous structure. The old, peeling paint had been stripped off, and a beautiful natural stain now covered the wood. Clean, new windows had replaced the broken ones, and all the junk and old vehicles were gone! The yard was clean and covered with new grass. I didn’t even have to ask what had caused the change. Instantly I knew that the house had a new owner.
    All of us have at one time or another resembled that old, broken-down house. Sin reigned in our hearts, leaving us broken, filthy, and cluttered. But whenever a person allows Jesus to take over the heart, a cleansing process begins immediately. Jesus will remove those things that distract from the Christian’s inner beauty, and people will notice the outer improvement as well!
    Jesus laid aside His heavenly throne and crown when He came to our world to save us. Then He surrendered His earthly garments when He died on the cross for our sins. Is it too much for Him to ask us to lay aside our lifeless baubles and beads that we might better reflect His simple purity in this lost world?
    As we have seen in this study, there are many good reasons for Christians to abstain from wearing jewelry. But if I had to pick two of the best, it would be these — love for God, and love for our neighbors.
    “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:1, 2.

    1 John Henry Newman, An Essay on the Develoment of Christian Doctrine (London: Longmans, Green & Company, 1906), pp. 372,373.

  30. Blanche Colgate///Toby Toby
    February 18th, 2010 at 12:58 pm

    TO ANOTHER VIEW

    PRAISE the LORD JESUS on your ARTICLE of CHRISTIAN’S NOT TO WEAR

    JEWELRY. YOUR ARTICLE SAY’S IT ALL.
    __________________________

  31. TRUTH is FREEDOM
    February 25th, 2010 at 8:12 pm

    there will come a time that many people are going to wake up late and they will realize that they are sleeping a very length of years.

    I wear a rubber bracelet, it costs less than a dollar. I wore a rubber necklace, it costs, a dollar. TEll me, is that wealth? Am I showing my riches to it? The bible is not silent on how we adorn ourselves externally. God looks at the heart, he is very mindful of the heart more than the outside. I Peter 3:3 says that we can adorn ourselves with fine apparel, golds, jewels, and we can also arrange our hair but let us not depend on it as our significance of beauty, the beauty God wants is the beauty INSIDE and that’s the heart, it has not something to do with the outside. SALVATION IS AN INSIDE JOB!

    By the way I am a guy, I wore fashion jewels. I just love God for His mercy endureth forever. The jewelry issues is not a biblical issue. If God surely does not allow us to wear jewels, He could have destroyed the world a long time ago, seeing that His people would sin because of jewelry. Am I right, Josh?

  32. The Preacher
    March 5th, 2010 at 1:32 am

    Many have given an opinion based on the knowledge of the scripture but we must know what did God say to us did anyone asked God what he thinks of it? I have ask him. This is what the Holy Ghost is for. Where does it say that it is a sin in the new testament. Apostolic man and women where will you find a dress for your wife during the great tribulation unless you make or get one from somewhere. Also during this time jewels will be worthless to us without the mark of the beast.

    The divisions of the church are here but soon trouble will come and God will shake all nation more and more. Saints of God there will be no more division very soon prepare yourself buy gold silver and save some food buy some land and be ready. Jesus said immediately after the tribulations of those days shall the sun of man appear. Only then will he gather the elect that is the church not the Jews. Jesus said if it were not for the shortening of days no flesh should be saved.

    Josh I hope you are still apostolic and baptized in Jesus name and filled with the Holy Ghost our legalism is wrong, but our doctrine is right. We must dress modest from head to foot. If your pastor told you to obey the code of dress for the UPCI then you must do it or you have committed sin for disobedience weather it is right or wrong. One must go to another church that is Apostolic but beware for if they are not fasting and praying they are a week church and you could be lost if you follow their bad habits.

    God has made us free from the law but he has not given us a license to sin. Fast and pray in the Holy Ghost and God will lead you to all truth. Apostolic leaders are divided because they don’t fast and pray anymore and ask God what does he say about the matter, you see the flesh talks for them and not God. My question brothers is did God tell you to do this or that or do you have a conviction from your late pastors from the 1930;s

    Children of God obey them that have the rule over you don’t rebel even if they are wrong long as they don’t cause you to sin against God you must obey. Only then will you please God. Make sure you are at a church where they speak in tongues Baptize in Jesus name and fast and pray. Also be sure they take the communion and foot washing and the pastor is not in immoral sin. The time is short the dollar will fall.

    Please prepare you have been warned don’t go to the camps. We have been wrong thinking the rapture will come before the great tribulation but I found out it will come after the great tribulation math 24: go to http://www.endtime.com Irving Baxter jr. he is a UPCI preacher I am not. I belong to the Apostolic Assemblies of Christ. Listen to his radio program and get the material so you will be ready.
    James 4:17 (KJV)
    17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
    If you know to obey and you don’t your have sined.

    Regardless of what Jesus my God shows me about dress codes……obey your Pastors

    The preacher………………….

  33. Shauna
    March 15th, 2010 at 1:09 pm

    I’m an apostolic and I believe in
    COMPLETE holiness. I think when God puts a scripture in the bible
    like 1 peter and 1 Timothy you should not question it, try to twist the WORD
    of God around, or try to tell people that the word/the man of God is wrong. I mean no disrespect by that. People have no problem following the worlds standards but Godwhen God tries to give us a standard that will keep us safe, we question it and try to find a way out of it. I’m sitting here and my soul is weeping, I pray that God keeps doing the miracles he’s doing, I am so thankful 4 people(ESP young ppl) who have a desire to follow his word no matter what it asks of them

  34. Noemi
    May 1st, 2010 at 6:18 pm

    thought about what u said earlier and i was really offended so i decided to research it before i just got totally upset..I know that my pastor has preached a sermon about it and i know what i have been taught. so to your response to me talking bout jewelry hears something for you to look at and research for yourself..

  35. natasha kamara
    May 5th, 2010 at 9:30 am

    Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Im an apostolic and KNOW for sure that those who try to twist the Word of God will suffer the consequences of their actions as outlined in REVELATION 21 and in regards to the wearing of jewellery, 1 PETER 3 advices us that it is the heart of the hidden man, however, some misinterpret this and say that it is fine to adore yourself in jewellery but i disagree. As a true child of God, one does not need to fashion themselves as the World do but i say seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you. Instead of examiing and trying to debate about jewellery, e.t.c, why not ask the holy spirit? im very sure that the spirit is not slack but will lead you into truth. Need i say more!

  36. dot
    May 19th, 2010 at 10:54 am

    Put the scripture aside. What good does jewelry do for any body? Is it just to temporally make us fell what about ourself? So what if the old testament has alot of people wearing it just because they did does that make it meaning full? What purpose does jewelry have , in my opinion nothing! Bling Bling Its A waist of money in my opinion !

  37. Kaley
    June 1st, 2010 at 10:25 pm

    “that which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination” that can mean anything we hold higher than God. I wear makeup because my complexion has acne scars from when I was younger and I have oily skin, not all of us are blessed with perfect complexions and I dont think if you put make up on with a right spirit as not to seduce but to feel better about yourself that is not sin. A mans boat, car, motorcycle or a womans home, furniture or clothes can be esteemed higher than God if we let it but all those things arent sin. Sorry but I have “another view too” anything we allow to interfere between us and God is a sin so please stop taking scripture on makeup and singling it out to fit this scripture. Vanity does not just include make up, but it can include our hair dos and our dress so once again very wrong to single out make up. God Bless all as we search the scripture.

  38. Kaley
    June 13th, 2010 at 2:45 pm

    This is in response to Kim. You mentioned if we were in the Army or a country club they would have rules so why do we have a problem with rules? Not to offend you, but we are not in the Army or a country Club but unfortunatly that is the way some people are treating the church. God’s grace is sufficient to save! Jesus said “take my yolk upon you for my yolk is easy and My burden light”. I was a part of a church for several years that acted like a “middle class social club” and you had do, act, and wear a certain type of clothes, or drive and live in a certain type of house, and guys you must play golf, and girls you def cant wear the same outfit twice! That after 8 yrs became tiring and I desired for something different. If you’re heart is right than “YES” everything else will fall in place, but that doesnt mean for some not ever wearing a braclet or necklace, because thats our church mandates to be on the platform or used in the church doesnt mean those are Gods mandates. We need to search our hearts and quit relying on our externals as our relationship with God, we dont hold some special key that no one else has since we dont wear jewelry or cut our hair. Jesus said “You will know they are my disciples by their love one toward another” not by the way they dress. I have seen many of women in a dress or skirt that didnt look very Godly to me, short skirts, high heels, fancied up hair dos and a gucci bag to boot! We are missing the point of holiness here people! Modesty is not to draw attention in anything, our dress, cars, homes, etc… You cant wear a 10 dollar braclet but a guy can wear a Rolex. Come on now, as long as its not a braclet its ok? We seem to be missing the whole point here. SIMPLICITY is the key to a modest lifestyle. I have been seeking God for answers and feel very strongly that I am hearing simplicity as the key to holiness. Some people dont want to hear that since they enjoy a lavious lifestyle but my friend that is it. God bless everyone as we strive to please God and not man.

  39. Tena
    June 16th, 2010 at 1:48 am

    PTL,

    Well born and raised in an Apostolic House hold i have had many debates on this my self and i have questioned my self on this same instruction. After long times of prayer and connection with the Lord, He has brought me to a conclusion. It is true the scripture does not say that we are not allowed to wear jewelry but however, when jewelry and outer appearance becomes vanity that is when it turns into sin. an example from my personal life, engagement rings i find them to be something symbolic and beautiful, however when we start looking at how big the rock is at the color, cut, clarity, and so on and so forth, we are no longer looking at what was once something that has a wonderful meaning, that right there is called vanity. The bible tells us that we are the light among the darkness and the salt of this earth, as such we should show it INSIDE AND OUT. The two come hand and hand. How can we shine in the darkness if we ourselves blend in with the darkness? (not saying we are in the darkness, but we just aren’t shining as we should be) Gradually the Lord will begin to mold you so you can be a living testimony of the true and Living God! Yes God looks at the inside but our testimony is our outer selves because i cannot look inside of you and see your testimony, i can only see your outward appearance.

  40. Kaley
    June 16th, 2010 at 6:00 pm

    We can shine in a dark world by the kindness, love and compassion we show others. I go to school with a lady who wears pants and make up every day but let me tell you she def has the fruits of the spirit operating in her life. She is different because she acts different and everyone in class know shes a christian woman, she actually has caused me to take a look at my christianity and put me to shame!

  41. Crystal Shifflett
    June 17th, 2010 at 6:40 am

    I know a dear lady that has an amazing walk with the Lord and she wears pants, jewelry, and make up. She is a wonderful testimony by the way she lives her life. She is instant in season and out!! Her faith is unwavering and she is a blessing to all who know her. She has often been a source of encouragement to me!!! I had all the outward standards for years but never came close to being the wonderful christian she is… Definitely made me step back and take a closer look in the mirror!!

  42. lawrence
    June 22nd, 2010 at 10:00 pm

    TO ALL

    i think the best of all is to ask the holy spirit to guard us on the right part to holiness we can never be prefect . But God sees the heart of man and knows who is who beside the 9 fruit of the spirit will help a true christian.

    One note of warning to the church on the subject of body piercings. We have a generation now of young people that love the Lord yet do not understand all of His ways.The Bible warns us against cuttings in our flesh in Leviticus 19:28 which says, “Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the Lord.”

    Our young people do not realize what they are doing has its roots in witchcraft and the practices of false religions. Those that have made trips to other parts of the world have viewed the bodies of those who have not only pierced and tattooed their bodies but have gone further, with mutilating their bodies. It is repulsive to see someone deform the body that the Lord made in perfection. The Lord admonishes us in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20,Deuteronomy 14:1.As many people are not aware of the spiritual dangers in such practices

    I know tattoo is from Hinduism and also witchcraft. Also, Hindus pierce their tongue with small spears and prick the entire body with little hooks and go in trances.

    Remain blessed as we flee from these abominations

  43. Kaley
    June 26th, 2010 at 7:08 pm

    Lawerence like what you said but do you also agree it could be wrong to pierce ones ears but ok to wear ear rings?

  44. lawrence
    June 30th, 2010 at 6:16 pm

    @kaley yes in a way but i can’t explain why a woman will pierce her ear in three or five places i have seen one. A christain that does that i wounder what he want the world to call her. Never the less i think its ok to wear ear rings decently.

  45. lokin
    July 7th, 2010 at 1:55 pm

    RE: Van

    A wedding band serves more of a purpose than a watch. It communicates to others, yourself and your spouse that you have made a commitment to each other in the eyes of God. “What God Hath Joined Together, Let No Man Put Asunder”. A watch merely tells you the time of day.

  46. Kaley
    July 15th, 2010 at 9:44 pm

    Another View: It was said that men no longer have to worry about their fiances diamond ring being big enough or women worrying about comparing their jewelry. I am a 44 yr old woman who was raised UPC and believe me theres alot of pressure to wear the right clothes, carry the right hand bag and wear the right shoes and Yes wear the right ring!. Spent 8 yrs in a church where it was almost unacceptable to wear the same outfit twice. My husband and I got into debt just trying to keep up! This is in our UPC churches! Not saying all are that way but many are and its alot of pressure on families. The church we go to now is better but have been there 10 yrs and getting ready to leave due to the double standards on everything.

  47. Grieved
    July 22nd, 2010 at 11:52 pm

    You know we all talk about all the things we “have” to do for God and how “inconvenient” it is and whether the Bible means this or that… Do you realize that the one who created us and watched us turn our backs on Him time and time again still came to earth and went through all His pain, in a fleshly body subject to pain, tempted in every area, crucified for the soul purpose of your eternity without a single complaint! He spoke forgiveness over us as He died for our sins, for He was without sin! Yet we try to find how much we can get away with and squeeze into heaven! I am ashamed that someone who knew the truth to it’s full extent could ever explain, deceptively might I add, why you can still get away with this! I would rather hear Him say “you didn’t have to do all that for me” than hear “if you would have done one more thing… Depart from me for I never knew you!” I’ll play it safe while you gamble with your eternity! I pray your eyes are opened again before it’s too late! God Bless!

    Ps. It talks about braided hair and gold, not braided hair “or” gold. Braided hair and gold go together because it was common for women to braid their hair with strands of gold. It doesn’t mean they can’t braid their hair, it means they can’t braid their hair with gold. I’m sure you just overlooked, no big deal. That explains why it is against jewelry. It spoke of what was common at the time.

  48. Grieved
    July 23rd, 2010 at 12:47 am

    @Josh about tattoos – the only laws that were abolished were the ones that Christ fulfilled at Calvary! If what you’re saying is true then you should rip out the OT from your Bible because it is of no use to us anymore! Is it just some good stories? The only laws that were changed were the laws pertaining to salvation! We serve a God that does not change! He had a plan from the beginning and all the OT of salvation was is a preparation to get them to the ultimate plan. It was a rolling ahead of the Sins by the High Priests until God came to earth as the lamb slain, the ultimate sacrifice! They could only roll them forward until His sacrifice was made. Be careful when judging what is significant or insignificant in the Bible…

  49. Grieved
    July 23rd, 2010 at 12:59 am

    @Josh – I’d like to know your view on any or all of my comments… Thanks and God bless

  50. Josh (Site Admin)
    July 23rd, 2010 at 2:05 pm

    Grieved, thank you for your comments. I am thankful for all who comment, whether or not their views agree with mine.

    However, I must remind you that debating is strictly forbidden in the comments. Please be sure to read the special notes below the comment box before making any submissions. This will be your first and only warning.

    I deleted your three comments that were directed “@ so-and-so.” Those comments did not contain any new knowledge. It seemed to me that they were simply designed to “stir the pot” (commonly called “trolling” in Internet slang). That type of behavior is strictly forbidden on this Web site. There are plenty of Web sites that will accept those types of posts, but this is not one of them.

    I did leave three of your comments:

    1. The comment that was written as a general response to my article. That is the type of comment that is acceptable
    2. The comment you wrote directly to me. That is also acceptable
    3. The comment that you wrote that requested I respond

    You did ask a couple of questions and make a couple of points, so I will respond to them as you requested.

    First, the idea that I or anyone else is trying to see how much I can get away with is very offensive to me. I’m not trying to squeeze into Heaven. I’m not trying to “reject the truth.” The reason that I left Oneness Pentecostalism was because I came to the conclusion that most of the theology of Oneness Pentecostalism is false. Hence, it’s not “the Truth.” My conversion was based on my determination to adhere to the Bible in the best way that I knew how. It was based on a determination to truly follow Christ and not follow dogma and tradition.

    If you would like to read the testimony about my conversion then you can find it here: http://www.whyileft.org/my-story.

    Second, the idea that God would kick us out of Heaven because we didn’t “do one more thing” puts good deeds on the wrong side of the equation. I say that because we are saved for good works, not because of good works. Paul writes in Ephesians:

    Eph 2:8-10
    (8) For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
    (9) not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
    (10) For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.

    The phrase “created in Christ Jesus” is referring to salvation, not to the creation of the universe. With that in mind, the meaning of this passage is very clear: We are saved for good works, not because of good works.

    Good works are definitely the result of being connection to the “True Vine” (John 15:1-11), but they are not the reason we are connected to the Vine. We are connected, then the good works come.

    If a person is connected to the True Vine then the natural outcome will the the “Fruit of the Spirit” (Gal. 5:16-26) and not the fruits of the flesh. When we are connected to Christ we grow spiritually in the same way that a branch would grow physically.

    The statement that a person might not get into Heaven because they didn’t “do one more thing” does not fit with the biblical view of salvation. A person gets into Heaven because they are saved. Good works are the natural outgrowth of their salvation. If they don’t get into Heaven then it is because they aren’t saved, not because they didn’t do enough.

    I encourage reading Galatians 5:16-26, Matthew 5-7, and Mathew 25:31-46. These passages will give a good idea of the type of behavior that is expected of a Christian. These are the good works that we are called to do. But again, doing these things does not save us. We do these things because we are saved.

    Third, I am aware that some women wove gold and other jewels into their hair sometimes. That was the interpretation that I heard preached in various UPC and ALJC churches. It was considered fashionable in some parts of the world during that time period, and even later. However, it is not clear whether that is the custom that Paul is referring to in 1 Timothy 2:9-10. The sentence structure does not make it clear.

    Personally I do not think that’s what Paul was referring to. That’s why I didn’t include that interpretation in my original article. But even if it was, it does not change the meaning of his command. His command was to focus on clothing ourselves in good works (1 Tim. 2:10) and not in expensive clothing and jewelry. Does this mean that jewelry is forbidden? Absolutely not. It just means that we should not make it our focus.

    Finally, about tattoos. I do not think that I ever said that God abolished any of the Old Testament law. If I did ever say that then it was a typo, and if you can link to where it is then I will correct it. Christ did not abolish any law. As a matter of fact, He said:

    Matthew 5:17-20
    17 “Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill.
    18 “For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished.
    19 “Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
    20 “For I say to you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”

    I firmly believe that Christ fulfilled certain portions of the Old Testament law on Calvary. It is a bit ridiculous to tell me that I need to just tear the Old Testament out of my Bible. That type of statement is called “hyperbole.” In other words it’s an exaggeration.

    First, the Old Testament is not filled with the Mosaic Law. The Mosaic Law only takes up a small portion of the Old Testament. Most of it is filled with prophecy, history, poetry, etc.

    Second, the ceremonial and judicial portions of the Mosaic Law were fulfilled at Calvary, while the moral law was not. The moral law is basically the 10 Commandments, or a person could think of it as anything that is defined as sin in the New Testament. This is what James was writing about when he referred to the “the perfect law, the law of liberty” (James 1:25). The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia has an excellent write-up on it here: http://www.bible-history.com/isbe/L/LAW+IN+THE+NEW+TESTAMENT/.

    I do not for a moment think that the Old Testament should just be ripped out. I don’t even think that the Mosaic Law should be ripped out. We are still bound to the moral law.

    On the other hand, the judicial and ceremonial portions of the Mosaic Law no longer apply to us. These portions contain things like the foods we eat and the way we grow our beards and the making of marks on our bodies (I.e., tattoos).

    Of course a person might disagree with me and say that tattoos is still part of the moral law. I don’t think it is, but everyone has a right to their opinion. Just don’t judge me for having a different opinion than you. I draw my conclusions based off of Scripture just like you do. If we’re drawing different conclusions off the same passage then one (or both!) of us is wrong. That is when we apply Romans 14 and set out to accept each other without judging each other =)

    Thank you again for writing. If you would like to respond to this then I’ll allow it. But make it good, because I’m cutting this discussion off after your response. You’ll have stated your view, and I’ll have stated mine, and that will be the end of it.

    In Christ,
    - Josh S.

  51. Grieved
    July 23rd, 2010 at 2:58 pm

    I wasn’t trying to debate at all, it was only to try and enlighten those who were not seeing things clearly. I apologize if I offended you at all. It was not my intention at all. It just hurts me to see so many people looking for truth but are falling short because there’s too many people offering their “opinion” when all you have to do is take the word as it is there. (not pointed to you at all) I wasn’t saying that you are suppose to do goods works to be allowed into heaven, but there are things required in the Bible from God that we must follow for salvation purposes. I realize it was a mistake to post anything on here to enlighten you for you have already experienced what I have and for some reason have disregaurded it from your blindness. I do not hold it against you but will pray that your eyes are opened and God reveals Himself and His word to you. God Bless you and all you do!

  52. IFY
    July 24th, 2010 at 11:32 am

    Am so grateful for this discussion.Another view God will continue to increase your wisdom bcos we are in the world which is dying for the truth but people will rather distort the truth just to please “CONVINIENT CHRISTAINS” why is it sooo hard for us to abide by rules/doctrine of a church if it doesnt make us to offend God.we all go to school,work and we are made to abide by the rules and regulations even when its not convinient but when it comes to the church we try to reason it out whether its biblical or not.what happens to obedience is more than sacrifrice,what happens to commandment to obey those in authorities does it exclude our Pastors whom God has given the charge over us.
    i wore gold ,make-ups and they began little idols without knowing but thank God i now know better not to wear them if we can be truthfull to ourselves we fill the void in ourselves by all these but we just want to pretend about it.Lets ask God for the grace bcos without the grace we will keep debating whether its good or bad.what will it profit it that at the gate that will be the reason to be sent to hell.
    Josh pls i really advice that u really honestly ask God to direct ur thoughts so that what we think dont matter will not at the end MATTER.GOD BLESS ALL THAT KNOW THE TRUTH AND ARE READY TO DO IT NO MATTER WHAT IT TAKES.GOD WOULD HAVE PIERCED OUR EARS IF HE WANTED US TO,HE WOULD HV PAINTED OUR LIPS,EYEBROWS ETC IF HE WANTED US TO PAINT THEM WE ARE NOT MORE RIGHTEOUS OR WISER THAN GOD.

  53. Crystal Shifflett
    July 26th, 2010 at 10:18 am

    I have found that the men of God I respect the most are the ones who say please, by all means go home and search the scriptures and see if all that I am teaching you lines up with the Word of God.
    I lived in obedience and blindly followed man’s teaching for years. However, when I searched the scriptures and found that things weren’t lining up, I realized that the biggest mistake I had ever made was to follow a man just because he was in a position of authority. As a result, not only did I find myself in a state of confusion but I also led my children into a state of confusion. Sadly, all of this could have been avoided if I had put my trust in Jesus and the infallible Word of God. Instead, I held a man in such high esteem that for many years, I felt as though questioning anything he said was wrong. My Bible tells me to try the spirits whether they are of God… With all that said, I have finally learned that ultimately I have to be in obedience to God’s Word because It alone is the final authority. God bless!

  54. A Humble Servant
    July 27th, 2010 at 3:48 pm

    You have the right to your own thoughts, but shame on you! You talk about how it is wrong that pentecostals teach not to wear jewlery..etc & you think that is wrong, then why are you putting your two sense in?!? What if you are totally wrong….think about it….because if you are, you are responsible for leading people away from holy beliefs! How about you let people read the bible, without making a website full of your personal beliefs?!?

    ———– Edit by Site Admin (original content left untouched) ———–

    Name of poster changed from “Me” to ” A Humble Servant” (the name used by this poster in some of their other comments). This change was made for the sake of clarity.

  55. Ruby
    July 31st, 2010 at 7:27 am

    Josh, have you ever thought about posting a site to honor God and not put down denominations?
    It seems as if your site speaks too much of how you disagree with this and disagree with that rather than on the Lord.
    In the end, denomination doesn’t matter, every pentecostal, baptist, lutheran, etc isn’t going to heaven, just like every pentecostal baptist lutheran etc isn’t going to hell. But it is either heaven or hell for each individual.
    All pentecostal churches aren’t the same, just like all non denominational churches aren’t the same and so on and so forth.
    I understand where you’re coming from in wanting to know the truth, but in you wanting to know the truth, it doesn’t give you the right to bash an entire denomination, especially if you agree with some of the things they preach.
    Those are still our brothers and sisters in Christ, I haven’t read anything about you praying for them. I have seen MORE negative about their teachings than positive.
    This isn’t to attack you or anything, it’s just something for you to think about.
    I don’t think it’s very wise in God’s eyes to just speak out against an entire denomination like that, if there’s anything to speak out against, it’s Satan causing confusion. It’s Satan using men to cause confusion. That’s something to be spoken out against the most. Because Satan can use any one in any denomination, not just one.
    Also, please don’t get too caught up in your theology and what not. Sometimes it helps just to sit, and read the Word of God, and let Him speak to your spirit. We can try to figure things out with our minds all we want, but when it comes to the Lord, things are revealed by the Spirit. The human mind (flesh) cannot figure out the things of the Lord unless we open up our hearts and connect with the Spirit, we will continue to be blind and confused.
    We serve a God who knows everything, so if you do feel confused and lost on some things, all you need to do is pray and ask the Lord on the answer, and He will give it to you. When you have the answer, because it will be a spiritual answer instead of something natural, you will never have to worry about being confused about it because that how powerful our God is. And when God speaks, we just automatically know in our hearts it’s the 100% truth. Even the apostle Paul wanted us Christians to receive understanding in the walk with Christ. He wanted it so much he had a prayer for the church.
    Paul’s prayer for the church:
    Ephesians 1:15-23 (Paying special attention to verses 18 and 19) “15 Why I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love to all the saints, 16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, 20 Which he worked in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: 22 And has put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23 Which is his body, the fullness of him that fills all in all.”
    I’m not a UPC member, I didn’t even know what it was until I visited this website. But I am a dedicated Christian and I do attend a church where the Holy Spirit of the Lord moves and works. Not only that, but I am striving toward a life full the Holy Spirit. I have no preference in denomination, if the is a move of the spirit and if I know that the people are following what the Word of the Lord teaches (which includes a manifestation of the Spirit), then I’m all for it. Salvation is great, but unfortunately, we need to continue to be good stewards AND do what is right according to the Lord, not according to what we feel. It’s by the spirit, not by the flesh that we live. If we live by the flesh, then that leaves room for all kinds of sin to enter in.

    Revelation 2:29 “He that has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

    What the SPIRIT says to the church, not what the own personal beliefs of an individual (including ourselves), not what this professor said, not what that archeologist said, not what the doctor said, not what the counselor says, but what the SPIRIT. God wants to reveal things to us but if we try to figure everything out on our own and try to go to every possible source besides the ultimate source we’ve missed it.
    It’s all about the Spirit of the Lord working. We can understand what to do and what not to do. God can reveal that to us, but we must go to Hm earnestly in prayer and ask for it, and then thank Him for it already being done and for how great He is.
    Debates and stuff aren’t even needed because when all are gathered in the SPIRIT there is unity.
    Why do you think the Bible says that speaking against the spirit is such an unpardonable sin? Because it’s the Holy Spirit that allows us to be empowered to live our Christian lives the way we ought to after the Lord. It’s the Spirit of God that gives us wisdom on what to do. Everything we do for the Lord counts, and we need to trust that He will do it right because He is righteous.

    I honestly wasn’t even going to write, I just read, but then I had an urge to write and I apologize if this is at the wrong web page or something. You don’t even have to write back if you don’t want to, and you don’t have to post this, it’s all honestly just somethings for you to really think about. Thank you for reading.

    ~Your sister in Christ

    God bless

  56. Josh (Site Admin)
    July 31st, 2010 at 12:24 pm

    Ruby, I have given very serious thought to the things that you write about. However, please understand that this Web site is not designed to bash one particular denomination. I use the phrase “UPC” as a catch-all phrase to cover all Oneness (Trinity-denying) Pentecostal organizations. The UPC is the largest Oneness organization so that is the phrase I use. Most people who are members of the movement would refer to themselves as “apostolic,” but if I used that phrase then it might confuse others who visit this site.

    With that said, I’d like to reiterate that the purpose of this Web site is not to bash anyone. It seems like the majority of people who think that have not read the “My Story” or “About” pages. People seem to make great assumptions about my motives without even taking the time to find out what they are.

    The purpose of this Web site was originally to answer the questions of friends and family members who were still in the movement. Those friends and family members are spread from Louisiana to Canada, with lots of places in between, so I thought it would be easy to put all the information centrally in one place. However, lots of other people started visiting, and, as you can see, they continue to visit.

    One other thing I’d like to point out is that the UPC and other Oneness organizations do not adhere to many of the orthodox Christian teachings. They are considered a cult by most of the rest of Christianity. They are put in the same category as Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses due to their denial of the Trinity, emphasis on a particular form of baptism as essential for salvation, the controlling nature of the church leadership, the emphasis on not questioning what you have been taught (Oneness Pentecostal preachers often teach that a person is being deceived by Satan of they question what the pastor or the doctrine of the movement teaches), and (in most cases) unusually strict dress codes.

    Now, I did not say that they were a cult. I just said much of the rest of Christianity does. The reason I bring it up is because I want you to understand that it’s not just “another denomination.” Oneness Pentecostalism believes that all other Christians are deceived and influence by pagan philosophy. Most Oneness Pentecostals would disagree with you that a Baptist, Methodist, or Lutheran could go to Heaven. They would say that they are “Trinitarians,” and to the Oneness Pentecostal that means that they believe in 3 gods. So to the Oneness Pentecostal all other denominations are essentially polytheistic. One of the common Oneness beliefs is that God will cause a great revival to happen and all of the “Trinitarian” Christian denominations will “have the revelation of the Truth” and become Oneness.

    So do I feel it necessary to attack them? Absolutely not. I believe Oneness Pentecostals can go to Heaven. On the other hand, I know there are a lot of people out there who are asking the same questions that I did. They feel like they are going to hell just because they are questioning what they have been taught. So if this Web site helps them answer the same questions that I asked and realize that it is alright–and even biblical–to question then it will have served its purpose.

    I am sorry that you feel that my Web site is a direct attack on a denomination, because its not. I believe that if you had read my story and the about page on this Web site then you would have truer understanding of my motives. Regardless, I hope that this post has clarified some of it for you.

    Thank you for taking the time to write, and God bless.

    - Josh S.

  57. Jessica
    August 4th, 2010 at 10:20 am

    I have to say that this site is very informative. I do not think that there is anything wrong with women wearing make-up and jewelry. Every culture has done so. I grew up in a Pentecostal church of God, and no one said anything to us about what we wore. It was come as you are! This is in no way bashing a denomination in anyway, but I do think that some religious groups go across the line. If I where to walk into a UPC wearing jeans, jewelry, and make-up would I be kicked out? Also, if the bible is supposed to be taken so literally, then why can man wear pants? If I’m not mistaken didn’t men (Jesus) wear long robes back in the day?

  58. Chelsea
    August 9th, 2010 at 6:55 pm

    In the middle or our arguing and bashing of each other, do we stop to think that God calls us to be unified and to bear with the weaknesses of others and to keep you’re opinion of a matter from being a stumbling block to others. Yes, God calls us to be different, and honestly i am not sure if he means different in how we act or how we are on the outside–the bible does say that God judges the heart, not the outward appearance. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Could it be that the reason the bible said something against jewelry because the vanity was going to their heads. It is possible to be vain without wearing jewelry, just as it is possible to be vain by wearing jewelry. We ALL have selfish desires, if you think you have no weaknesses or faults or sins–my friend i am not afraid to tell you, you are wrong. God judges a man’s heart. Very well written blog! It gives insight on both sides not just scriptures for or against something. There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. Honestly, i think all the rules with jewelry and makeup and skirts/dresses is restricting. Restriction is what turns SO many people away from God, when they think they can’t uphold enough of the rules they will run. I know many, many people who are saved (there is NO doubt in my mind about this from the fruit in their live) but they don’t go by these standards, they are free. I understand if someone wants to abide by those rules because they feel that, that is what God is calling them to do–more power to you i have the utmost respect for you! I am saved by the grace of God and have been for four years and I am still searching for God’s ways and wills in everything in life, so thank you for posting BOTH sides of it! I LOVE this blog page!

  59. Lia
    August 16th, 2010 at 11:19 pm

    I am a woman who has been married for nearly two years. I am a Seventh Day Adventist. I was baptised in the church when I was 18. When I got married and moved away, my husband wanted me to become a member at his non-denominational church. I figured more God for me – I can go on Saturday and Sunday..I just can’t lose. But it became rather taxing for me, and I was really and truly in the valley of decision as to which one of the the churches I would just fully put my energy into. Then hear comes my former pastor from the place where I use to live – publicly bashing me on a social network- about seeing me wearing a few accessories in some photos. The Adventists began e-mailing me in my inbox about how wrong he was and asking me why he was targeting me like that – and maybe one of them, and a few friends who are not of the same faith, came to my defence publicly just as my former pastor publicly made me feel like less of anything because I had some lil $1.99 earrings in my ears that I got at a dollar store. My thing is, I am finally at a really good place in my life with my relationship with God and I am striving daily just to make it into His kingdom and to help bring others there as well. I’ve been in the church so long, I even forgot why we didn’t wear it. I was just doing it because that’s what we were suppose to do – it was a sign of who we are as a denomination. We had the “Adventist” look. But you know what, I almost died several years ago, and trust me, lying on that hospital bed tottering between life and death, little things like wearing jewelry and make-up were the farthest things from my mind. I was like Lord, I know things aren’t right…but I want to make them right…and it was not easyyy…it was a long journey to get to where I am today but thank God, my heart is fixed and my mind is made up. I just want to see Jesus – I want to be one of those people who will bow before Him and call Him King of Kings and Lord of Lords. I am pressing and pushing every day to be a good daughter, and yet people are worrying about jewelry and make up? This article really did it for me… now, don’t get me wrong…I am not knocking the Adventist Church. There had to be some special reason that made me join it in the first place – which makes it so very hard to just break away. I love the church, I love the people and I love the message – well most of it anyway….but maybe it’s time for them to read this article and review this particular doctrine because if they keep on this path, they are going to really build a wall between God and His people. Time is running out, and everyone needs to keep their hands on the plough but let’s just start off with a very simple “God Loves you and Jesus Saves”…oh yeah, that’s what actually brought me in. A sermon by Pastor Charles Brookes…Jesus Saves….BAM! I was innnn….sold! Honestly, I am just tired of the same old, same old rhetoric though about the jewelry and make up. People, let it go. If we come in the name of the Lord, then, we need to come with so much love – and not fingers in the face.

  60. Chanique
    September 25th, 2010 at 3:04 pm

    I think this was very interesting as well. Sis Noel, I agree with your comment, but only to a certain extent. We are to live by God’s Word so somethings have to be interpretated so that we will know what to do. Being on God’s side means, doing the right and not the wrong. How else will we know if we done analyze things to see what is right and what is wrong. We can’t live being lukewarm, and I myself needs to take heed to what Im saying. When i say lukewarm, living right by some principles but wrong to those that we ignore. I Also Agree That The Chruch Needs Unity && Not To Seperate For Petty Things !!! <3

  61. Santosh
    October 26th, 2010 at 7:12 am

    I really agree to what “another view” has said in his post –
    “If I were to wear any jewelry, I would instantly open the floodgates of inconsistency by my example and cause many to stumble. If I really love my brother, why would I insist on taking that risk for something so frivolous and unnecessary as jewelry?
    Whenever you are unsure about which course to take on a spiritual issue, take the safe position. I know that on the judgment day, God will not condemn anyone for not wearing enough jewelry. So the safe thing is to not wear any.”

    I have this same view:
    If I don’t use any jewelry, God will not punish me for it.
    But if I do use any jewelry, and get to know on judgement day that it was a sin, I’ll be doomed for eternity…
    So is it not better to be on the safer side?

    And moreover, just by not adorning outwardly won’t help. Your inner man needs to be perfect to the standard of Jesus. He’s the only one with whom we can compare our lives with…

    Praise God!
    Let’s all be united in Christ and prepare for the rapture…
    It’s not very far even as we get to see the Biblical prophecy of nations preparing to wage a war against Israel coming near to fulfilment…

    May God bless all…

  62. Joseph Hizza
    March 16th, 2011 at 10:15 am

    Praise the Lord flocks,

    I comment that the bible should be used to control circumstances not the circumstances or world changes control the bible. Self interests should not cause us “the church of God” perish or open the doors for the enemy to have a legal ground to operate in our lives just because we have foreign gods in our lives. NASB version is actually among the revised versions. When you read from the original translation of KJV the word merely doesn’t appear in the scripture. I am afraid that this translation under weighs the reality of the original translation of the bible.

    Genesis 35: 2 – 5 indicates clearly how nations struck by Gods terror when Jacob commanded his household to remove all foreign gods from their presence including earrings which were to be hidden. Anything which can cause our enemy to have a legal ground to attack us belongs to other gods. Jehova is a jealous God and it is difficult to share his cup with cups of demons.

  63. Josh (Site Admin)
    March 16th, 2011 at 11:23 am

    Joseph,

    Thank you for the feedback. I’m not sure which word you are saying is in the NASB but not in the KJV. Regardless, I encourage all readers to remember that there is nothing special about the KJV. It was just another translation of Scripture that was made hundreds – thousands of years after the original manuscripts were written, just like all of the other translations.

    The KJV actually has a ton of errors, which is why I prefer more accurate translations. However, if a person prefers to read from the KJV then I take no issue with that. The only thing that I take issue with is when the KJV is elevated to a status that it does not deserve.

    In Christ,
    - Josh S.

  64. Jerry John
    April 23rd, 2011 at 6:47 am

    Parables & meanings
    In James 2: 1-4 & Luke 15:11-32 are parables or examples used to make a fact clear. We cannot take parables or examples used to state that ornaments are allowed. I will give more parables used in bible & comments against each
    a) Heb 4:12  Word of God is compared with two edged sword. Eventhough using sword is a SIN,God has used this as a parable to explain a fact
    b) Rev 3:3–> I will come upon you as a thief? Why God used thief to compare his coming…Can you say that it is ok to become a thief because God used this.
    c) John 6:56–>He who eats flesh & drinks my blood… Isnt drinking blood a sin..but God used this to make a fact or a point clear.
    Can we tell everyone to drink blood becuase God used it in bible.

    More examples are there… moreover it is possible for an ungodly man to come to a church. Remember in the parable of James it is not a church but synagoge.

    My comment on 1 peter 3:1 & 1 Timothy 2:9

    When i buy a house & tell the painter to paint the wall using white color & not pink, does it mean that he can paint using pink also.

    Please note that he bought us by his blood…not something else…in recent times most of pastors allow ornaments becuase they dont get more people in church… the way to heaven is too narrow….dont make it wide open for lot of people to enter…It is God who said it is narrow. It is not the inward only God looks for.Read the following passages. This passages will help you to understand that God looks at mans outward also..
    1) 1 corin 6:15
    2) Colossians 2:17
    3) Colossians 2:11
    4) Colossians 3:9-10
    5) Galatians 5:24
    6) Luke 9:23
    7) Roman 12:1
    8) Roman 13:14
    9) 1 peter 2:11
    10) Roman 8:13
    11) Roman 8:6,7
    12) Roman 6:12
    13) Galatians 3:27

  65. Josh (Site Admin)
    April 23rd, 2011 at 11:41 am

    Jerry, I appreciate the feedback! I’m afraid that I don’t understand which parables in my article you were referring to, or why you thought they were taken out of context. However, I think I understand where you were going with your comment. Here are a couple of brief remarks on the points you made:

    * James is not a parable. It was written “To the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad” (1:1). This means that it was written with Jewish believers in mind, which means that it was probably written sometime after that persecution mentioned in Acts 8, but before the gospel started spreading to the Gentiles in Acts 10. Because of this, the use of “synagogue” is not used as a parable because believers were still meeting in synagogues at that time.

    * The use of a sword in Hebrews 1:12 is an analogy. (There may be a more precise word than analogy; I was never good at remembering the differences between metaphors and analogies and all that. However, the word will suffice now.) The point of Hebrews 1:12 is not whether swords are good or bad; the author is simply using a reference that the recipients of his epistle can easily understand.

    * Rev. 3:3 is another analogy. God said He would come LIKE a thief in the night if the church of Sardis did not repent. Nobody would ever read that and deduce that it was alright to be a thief.

    * John 6:56 – Many, if not most, Christians actually do believe that the bread and wine become the literal body and blood of Christ during communion. That aside, it is again very clear from the context that Jesus is not promoting cannibalism. Again, no reasonably minded person would ever make that inference.

    1 Pet. 3:3 and 1 Timothy 2:9 are not parables or analogies, they are commands. The command is to focus on the cultivation of the inward self and not external appearance. If wearing gold jewelry is wrong then so is braiding your hair and wearing dresses. It can’t be one and not the other.

    The thirteen other Scripture references you listed have nothing to do with appearance. They talk about everything from prostitution to circumcision to the deity of Christ. The one thing they don’t talk about in any way, shape, or form, is how Christians should look or dress. I’m not going to comment on each one; people who read the comments are welcome to look up the references for themselves.

    In Christ,
    - Josh S. (site admin)

  66. Miranda
    May 4th, 2011 at 1:33 am

    This is a really great article. Thank you for your detailed writing! I’ve been waiting awhile for legitimate answers on this subject, and now I finally have it. May God continue to use you :)

  67. Candy
    May 4th, 2011 at 2:34 am

    I have studied these scriptures day after day, trying to explain to my brained washed family that there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with a wedding ring, with the earrings on my ears, with the necklaces I wear to work! I really would like to share this with them so they can hopefully get over the most ridiculous doctrine EVER. Thank you for this. I myself am an ex-apostolic.

  68. Ebony
    May 13th, 2011 at 1:51 pm

    PLEASE READ ENTIRE POST!!!!

    I am holiness. I was not raised in it, but I decided to join into it. As we know this is one of the subjects who can go on all day. Let me help you out with this decision.

    First:
    Is the wearing jewelry a sin?

    Contrary to the popular belief, wearing jewelry is not a sin.

    Can I go to Hell for wearing Jewlry?

    Furthermore, somewhat contrary to the former statement, yes you can.

    Sister Ebony Why do you say that?

    When we decide to join a church, you take what is called a right hand of fellowship. This is saying that you will respect leadership and follow and obey the laws of that assembly as long as you are a member. Now you and I know it is better not to make a vow than to make a vow and break it. The bible says that. In addition, the bible says you have to obey those who have to rule over you.

    You may be saying, well Sister Ebony, who gave them authority over me?

    You did when you took the right hand of fellowship. That means you have to obey by the “Bi-laws” of that particular church.

    Can I wear jewelry and still be in fellowship with God after this?

    Yes, The solution is simple. There are many churches that wear jewelry and are teaching the truth. I recommend that you go to your pastor and talk to him or her and let them know what your feelings are.

    Make sure you leave the church in a good way, because remember the same God died for them too. There is a scripture that talks about everyone coming to the knowledge of Christ. Now we see through a glass darkly, but one day people will realize that it’s not the denomination that you are in that is going to help you get to heaven. There will be a lot of apostolic, Pentecostals, and Holiness church members in hell.

    We have to be counted worthy to go to heaven. What does that mean? If you don’t wear jewelry, and you have something unrighteous in your heart, I’m afraid your outward appearance will mean little to God. Too often we make a huge deal on the minors. That’s what paul was trying to say.

    There is a scripture that says, out of the mouth of two or three witnesses every word is established. You have to realize that this referred to you having a dispute with your brother or sister. After going by yourself the first time to get things right, if they did not want to listen to you and resolve the conflict. You should take with you two or three to be witnesses. That way every word that was actually said could be “ESTABLISHED”. This was a means to get the truth and not a lie out of a dispute. Not to establish doctrine.

    I pray that God grants you wisdom and understanding. Remember there are many people of different races and religions going to heaven. They will all have one thing in common. They have overcome. I’m not sure about you, but I want to be one that has overcome the adversities of this life to go on to be with Jesus in Glory. Remember he said he was coming back. I have no better sense than to believe him.

    One more thing, I can’t wait for jesus to tell me well done my good and faithful servant. I can’t wait for him to give me a crown. You may not wear jewelry, but if you live right, You will get a crown. Not that you will keep it but so that you can throw it at his feet. Don’t you want to have an offering fit for a king? My focus is not on what I can or can’t do, but what I will do when I am welcomed into his kingdom all day and all night giving God the Glory. When I am invited to the marriage of the lamb. O what a day that will be.

    BE BLESSED!!!

  69. Josh (Site Admin)
    May 15th, 2011 at 4:25 pm

    Sis. Ebony,

    That was a very good post. I appreciated the wisdom and the spirit that it was written in.

    I agree with much of what you said. The main difference (if I understand your points correctly) is that I do not feel that a person will ever go to hell, under any circumstances, for choosing to wear jewelry. The reason I feel that way is because there is no biblical commandment or even precedent against wearing it. The commands against jewelry are made by men, not by God. From your post I think you agree.

    Could a person go to hell for causing disunity in the church? It probably depends on which type of disunity is being discussed. For example, suppose I came up with a doctrine that encouraged or even endorsed adultery. Far fetched? Not exactly. It happened in a Oneness (though not UPC) church in Washington in the 80s: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Community_Chapel_and_Bible_Training_Center. Now, if my pastor started promoting a doctrine that encouraged sinful, lustful behavior, then you can bet I’d be raising cane over it regardless of any bi-laws that I signed. I doubt anyone would tell me that I’m going to hell because I challenged my pastor over such a doctrine.

    Of course, the doctrine of not wearing jewelry isn’t on the same level as the doctrines taught by Community Chapel. Not even close. Still, every time that I have seen anti-jewelry doctrines taught they are part of a larger doctrinal structure that is, for lack of a better word, legalistic. This form of doctrine encourages a partial return to the Law as a way of being justified before God. It stands in opposition to the gospel taught by the apostles. To make matters worse, these forms of doctrine actually separate us from Christ instead of making us closer to Him (Gal. 5:1-12).

    The difference in your scenario is that a person chose, as you did, to join a church that taught against jewelry. In your example you feel it’s better to stand by the bi-laws that you agreed to instead of signing them and then opposing them. That’s all well and good, and I understand how you can take that position (even though I still wouldn’t consider you a troublemaker and certainly wouldn’t think you were going to hell if you changed your mind later and decided to point out the doctrinal flaws to your church). However, it’s important to remember that many of us were born into the movement or raised in it and it’s all we knew. Many of us never signed bi-laws, it was just our way of life. Therefore, when people like me start to see problems and challenge the doctrine we are in a very different position than you.

    Thanks again for your feedback, and for the spirit that it was written in,

    In Christ,
    - Josh S.

  70. Amarilyn
    May 31st, 2011 at 2:59 am

    Thank you Josh for this intelligent, well-written, clearly-thought-out and prayed over article. I, like a few of the other posters, am a Seventh day Adventist and we traditionally have held the same position on the wearing of jewlery as the Apostolics. Although in some churches more of an emphasis or concern is put on jewlery than in others, it does seem like the people in the more “liberal” churches are viewed as “less Adventist” than the people in the more “conservative” churches. Your article really puts it all into perspective and is Biblically sound. Although I guess Adventists and UPC’s wouldn’t be considered similar because we are Trinitarians, I am amazed at how similar we sound on this issue. Especially the people that were posting against your article, they had some of the same reactions and rebuttals that I’ve heard all my life growing up in the SDA church by the more traditional followers. It’s just sad to me that these denominations, in their quest to follow the Bible completely, have allowed themselves to “major in minors” as I’ve heard it said. It’s also interesting to me that this one issue—jewlery—is what our denominations would have in common. The other things like the “clean diet” doctrine that SDA’s follow (no pork, no shellfish and other unclean meats) seem to be a points of departure. And definitely the 7th day Sabbath (Saturday), which seems to be our point of departure from most Christian denominations, doesn’t at all come in to play and this is our most important doctrine because we view it as a part of the Moral Old Testament Law (the 4th commandment of the 10) and we don’t believe that the Sabbath was ever changed to Sunday (by God).

    What I’m sensing is an all or nothing attitude from some of the posters who disagree with you. Either take all of what the church teaches or none of it. I applaud you for having the bravery to say that you agree with some of the things your church teaches and view them as Biblical, but with other things you don’t. I am in the same position; although it appears that you found there to be too many things that you didn’t agree with and that’s why you left (I admit, I haven’t read your other articles yet so I am just assuming). I am still a member of the SDA church and still view myself as an Adventist although I know there are many who would label me as a “Sadventist” because of my beliefs. I truly believe that any denomination is likely to be flawed because denominations, just like religions, are man-made and man-inspired. To what denomination did Jesus belong? Wasn’t he was constantly speaking out against the flawed religiosity of the Jews? Man’s nature causes us to struggle with God’s infinite plan of salvation and his matchless grace for us. So we want to put more on it, or make a system of extra things we have to do or don’t do to be truly “holy” or righteous before God. We forget that our righteousness is as filthy rags. It is only through God’s grace that we can be called righteous.

    As for the jewlery issue I think it’s about modesty and moderation (same as for dress and make-up). In 2011 there are very few people that look at a woman and think, “she must not be a very good Christian because she has those earrings on” (except maybe an Adventist or an Apostolic…lol). The Bible says “by their fruits ye shall know them” not “by what they wear ye shall know them.” The Bible also says that “man looketh upon the outward appearance but God looketh upon the heart.” I’m sure we’ve all known Christians who kept the laws about appearance but their characters were another story. I don’t want the focus to be on whether or not I’m wearing jewlery but on whether or not I show love to my fellow man. Am I patient? Kind? Slow to anger? Do I have clean speech? Do I lift people up and encourage them? Am I thankful? Prayerful? And trusting in God? These are the things that I think as a Christian woman [person] I need to be concerning myself with.

    Again, I thank you for this article, and God bless you.

  71. Brittany Hester
    June 12th, 2011 at 11:37 pm

    In Response to This:

    If he is laying down a set of rules then this is what we can glean:

    Men always have to lift their hands when they pray. Furthermore, they cannot lift their hands if there is any wrath or dissension in their heart.
    Women must dress modestly and discreetly.
    Women must not braid their hair.
    Women must not wear gold or pearls.
    Women must not wear costly garments.
    Women must wear good works (what store do you buy those in?).
    There are a couple of problems with the first option. One might reasonably wonder how a woman could wear good works. On the other hand, if Paul is making a broader point, and he is just using braided hair, gold, pearls and costly garments as an example, then this is what we can glean:

    God means that instead of wearing flashy clothing women should do good works to be seen beautiful and attractive no by what they put on their face and their body. He means it in a spiritual way the bible is physical and the spiritual word of god. in the garden of Eden Eve and Adam were both spiritual people and physical people that’s why when they were naked they saw nothing wrong with it not until they ate of the fruit the devil lied to them and said they wouldn’t die but they did a physical death and also a spiritual death. That’s why all people are born spiritually dead unless both of their parents are saved . Its almost like the writer is trying to be funny when he says oh lets take Paul literally so this only applies to married women you just have to have a better understanding of what they bible is saying its not always one thing its trying to convey but you dont wanna take anyting outta context either :)

  72. Hazel Ann Johnson
    July 3rd, 2011 at 12:56 pm

    I came from a sunday church that the congregation wears jewelery and Now I attend SDA church that is againts jewelery wearing. I still wear jewelery but modestly. I prayed to God and ask Him to show me in His word if it is wrong to wear jewelery and I have searched every scripture and have not come up with one scripture that forbid jewelery. God is concerned about us making these things our god; as a matter of fact anything people can make their god. I am a born again christian and I live my live base on convictions by the Holy Spirit because He is to guide us into all truth. I believe that men put us in bondage and it is good for us to search the scripture for in it we will find the truth. Let the Holy Spirit guide you into all truth.

  73. Neil
    July 11th, 2011 at 8:01 pm

    How can we explain about God is saying be ye separate from this world? As paul said it is impossible to escape from this world. We are in this world but we are not of this world indeed: I think by this passage ! peter 3:3-4 paul want us to know that there is a big deference in living for God as Jesus Christ is holy Because if we wear jewelry and paint our face then tell me what is the difference the people of doing the things that are not of god as what Psalm 1:1-2 said” Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” Sorry for this But this is my opinion and this is my conviction I love it and I don’t want to compromise for it.

  74. Josh (Site Admin)
    July 11th, 2011 at 8:31 pm

    Neil,

    By your logic godly men should wear makeup because worldly men do not wear makeup. And dresses. And have long hair (except for places where it is customary for worldly men to have long hair, in which case Christian men should have short hair).

    The “be ye separate” argument (from 2 Cor. 6:17) has nothing to do with the way that we dress (it’s actually about idolatry). Trying to apply it to clothing just doesn’t work.

    In Christ,
    Josh (site admin)

  75. Neil
    July 12th, 2011 at 8:29 pm

    If we talk about hair Paul clearly stated in 1cor. 11:6-16 But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given her for covering. If a man should have a long hair it is shame to him. And in verse 16 Paul concluded that If any man contentios (disagree, Arguing) about this, we have no other practice nor do the churches of God. Therefore I concluded that it is pleases God that a woman have a long hair and it is glory to her, and the man He ought not to cover his head or have short hair, forasmuch as he is the image of the glory of God. Friend, if you have time take time to read this beautiful passage of God so that we can fully understand what God meant us to be. thanks!

  76. Josh (Site Admin)
    July 12th, 2011 at 9:31 pm

    Hi Neil, and thanks for your comment. I have an article on hair at http://www.whyileft.org/what-does-the-bible-say-about/what-does-the-bible-say-about-hair/. If you take time to read the article then you’ll find that the issue is not as clear cut (no pun intended) as you make it out to be.

    I have company right now so don’t have time to write more. Please read the article at your convenience though.

    In Christ,
    - Josh S. (site admin)

  77. Nellie Williams
    July 19th, 2011 at 11:14 pm

    Thank you for this article, because I go to church that preach against earrings, rings, any time of jewelary. You cannot wear sandals, short sleeves, and dresses must very long. You have to wear only two clothes black or white. You can not braid your hair, or perm, or relax it. No makeup, no wedding rings. The womans have to wear long jacket coats so their shape wouldn’t show. They teach if any body dies with a sickness they went to hell. The people have to tell the leader where they are at all times. They are not allow to do anything or go anywhere without letting the Pastor know. Everyone is forbidden to eat meat.

  78. Nellie Spencer
    July 19th, 2011 at 11:22 pm

    They call me worldly and need to be deliver, because I wear makeup, earrings, my wedding ring, big dress pins, brown, and blonde wigs. They said I am in rebellion to God, and bad things will come on those who keep on being in rebellion. The women look like the women in the muslim countries who are dress up in all black. The men are dress up with nice suits on. The women are allow the twist their hair but not braid it.

  79. Mano
    July 26th, 2011 at 9:17 am

    Praise God,

    Thanks to ANOTHER VIEW.
    I go with your points. Great Insights.
    I believe that its not you who has scripted this. Its Holy Spirit who used you. May God Bless you (ANOTHER VIEW)

  80. Josh (Site Admin)
    July 26th, 2011 at 11:13 am

    Mano,

    The Holy Spirit didn’t script Another View’s comment. The reason is because the person who wrote it was wrong, and the Holy Spirit doesn’t make mistakes. At the start of his comment he wrote: “How can jewelry be Christian when the Bible strongly admonishes believers not to wear it? Clearly, “Christian jewelry” is a conflict in terms.” The problem with that statement is that it’s simply incorrect. There is not one Scripture in the Bible that commands Christians (or anyone else) to not wear jewelry. It just doesn’t exist. Everything that Another View wrote after that statement was founded on that same faulty premise. His post was just incorrect, and there’s no getting around that. It may sound good, and it may validate pre-formed opinions that some people have when they read it. It may even make those same people get a few goosebumps and think to themselves, “Why can’t Josh Spiers just SEE it?” I know what it’s like. Been there, done that, and got the t-shirt.

    The problem is that I do see it. I came to the realization one day that the Bible never says a thing against jewelry. It’s not even hinted at. Rules against jewelry are nonsense. They’re man-made laws that have no place in the Christian church.

    So no, Another View’s post wasn’t dictated by Scripture. It was dictated by him (or her), and it was wrong.

    In Christ,
    - Josh S.

  81. anonymous
    August 5th, 2011 at 1:21 am

    Thanks for this. I read about the whole jewellry thing in a scripture the other day and just didn’t understand why it would be wrong to wear jewellry and braid your hair. So thanks for this, I thought it might have been examples but I wasn’t sure.

  82. Sandra Kay
    September 12th, 2011 at 1:10 am

    I am trying to find a religon. Im being told different thing everywhere. I understand the jewelry part (somewhat). I do not understand the “dress” part. Pants are better when it comes to “hiding the flesh”. As for what Steven saw, i am completely confused! And for one question, there are 50 “different” answers. How do i know which ONE to believe. Is “their” interpretation correct. Was that literal, or figuritively speaking? I only post this because, as you see, i AM confused. I know im lost, but i am trying to hard to do the right thing to have “a place prepared for me”.

  83. Matt
    September 12th, 2011 at 11:30 pm

    Thank you for the in-depth knowledge on this jewelry principal. I have been raised my whole life in the UPC thinking women wearing make up, jewelry, cutting and dying their hair was a sin and frowned upon along with all the other nonsense like TV.
    I accepted everything preached and never really asking “WHY and WHERE does it say that in the bible?”

  84. Josh (Site Admin)
    September 13th, 2011 at 1:11 pm

    Sandra,

    Christian denominations disagree on many things. When should communion be taken? How often should it be taken? How should baptism be performed? The list goes on and on. However, Christians unite around the core elements of Christianity–things such as the virgin birth, the authority of Scripture, the deity and humanity of Christ, the nature of God, and certain other things. Without these things one is not a Christian, because these things are what Christianity is.

    I encourage you to read “Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis. The book is a non-denominational one that helps a person understand what Christianity is, but it does not promote any particular denomination. I think that book will help you greatly in your search :).

    In Christ,
    - Josh S.

  85. Kim
    September 26th, 2011 at 10:01 am

    I had my hair braided with extra hair that I bought not even a month ago. I’m in my church choir (UPC). I’ve been singing in the choir for a couple of months now. My pastor is the Superintendent of the UPC organization. After morning service on 9/25/11, his wife told that my pastor wanted to speak with me in his office, so I went in. When I sat down, he asked me what did I do to my hair (and by the way I’m a black american) and I explained to him that I purchased hair from a beauty supply store and had it braided to my real hair because I don’t like to do my natural hair. It’s quicker for me to style how I have it now. He said that they don’t want me being up on the platform because I guess he don’t want others to do the same thing. He went on to ask me was it something common that others do and I said yes. His wife said in their culture but not in the Pentecostal churches. By the way this took me by total surprise because the reason why I go to church is because of God and my salvation through Jesus Christ. He said that we are to be separate from the world, which I didn’t get my hair done like that to be like the world. I’ve stated above the reason why I got it done. He told me to pray about it and I asked him did I need to take it out and he told me yeah. I told him that it would take a while because my whole head is braided in small plaits and will take time. And on top of that I would have to let my natural hair sit for a day or two so that I can perm it. I just got on the silent praise team and have a fill in part to do off the song we are signing too and now I won’t be able to do that nor sing in the choir. I always had a desire to do silent praise and sing in the choir but it seems like it has been taken from me because of my hair. I couldn’t even go up in the choir in the evening service because of what took place. It seems that it should be our salvation that people should be concerned about and not how we wear our hair or dress (i do believe in dressing appropriately though). I don’t believe God will turn us away for that. He looks within the heart of man. ONLY man looks at the outer appearance. I have crying about this and prayed for God to give me understanding because this has confused me, then I came across your website. All I’m going to do is follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. I haven’t been convicted of any of this by the Holy Spirit at all but because I fellowship there, I will follow the RULES. I believe some people take their authority and abuse it but I will leave that in God’s hand. Thanks Josh for the information you have provided.

    God bless you!

  86. Mialisa
    October 11th, 2011 at 4:40 pm

    Thank you very much for your article that was very well researched. I never saw anything wrong with wearing jewelry and I too am guilty of judging women who do because of the teachings of my pastor. I was lead to research this topic because my pastor outright shamed a new convert when she visited our church on Sunday. Also, I have been spoken to because I wear bobs in my ears and I had to take them out. I will obey because it is the unspoken law of my church but I am glad that I now have this information because I have always believed that your relationship with God is what is most important and not what you wear or how you dress. Thank you again and God bless.

  87. Binson
    October 17th, 2011 at 11:30 am

    Hi all in Christ,

    With my studies piercing body parts is not a good thing to do. Wearing earrings and other jewels are basically came from the Babylon. When it came to Israel god asked them to leave it coz god doent like to see a Babylonian tradition in His people. Same as in the new testament. Its an old Babylonian tradition and in Hosea also explaining who and for wot women wear jewels. So it is really bad to see Christians still follow these Babylonian traditions in the modern churches..

    In Christ,
    Binson

  88. Charles Veda Raja
    October 21st, 2011 at 10:33 am

    Hi All,
    I am a christian, living in India, who believed that wearing jewels is good. For many years i thought that people who are telling not to wear jewels are following the western culture, as i believed, christianity is a religion that came from west. I started going to pentecost church when i am 15, and there people don’t wear any jewellery. So i started to research whether it is sin to wear jewellery. Then I started to realise that we should not wear any jewellery. Bcoz, it is a way to represent that we belong to our Lord. Look at the Idols, and you can see it is adorned with jewels, ears and nose pierced. Don’t think that in the day of Judgement, the people with 666 mark will be separated. The satan would show an idol and say to God whoever looks like it are his people. There is a verse, i don’t remember it’s location, that says, even the chosen one will be deceived. So if you wear jewels you will represent the idol created by satan. So decide yourself.

  89. Mathew
    December 3rd, 2011 at 5:12 am

    I fully agree with what WORD OF GOD explained in bible. We can not debate on it or come out with a self driven ideology. We have to trust means trust and act according to word of god or else leave it…. go as you wish.

    Nice article on ornament wearing. Keep putting up such articles so that one can understand it once the word of god is fulfilled….

  90. Josh (Site Admin)
    December 5th, 2011 at 4:12 pm

    Binson,

    Babylon was an ancient world power, so quite a few things could be traced back there if we tried hard enough. We could probably claim that hanging gardens came from Babylon if we tried hard enough. The same goes for Egypt. Just because a culture developed something doesn’t make it a sin.

    With that said, body piercing pre-dated Babylon. Earrings appear in some of the early chapters of Genesis (it is recorded that Jacob’s family removed their earrings). Piercing of other body parts has appeared in cultures all over the world, including cultures deep in the jungles of South America and the Pacific–cultures that were probably never affiliated with the Babylon empire.

    In Christ,
    - Josh S.

  91. in the name of JESUS
    December 26th, 2011 at 6:36 pm

    josh…
    i am penticostal…. Glory to God.
    umm first off you are stubborn… how can you say things that are so wrong. i wonder if you read the bible with the true wisdom of God…??? dont you understand that these are the last days and you dare say that people should go against God?!!! the God who made you!! who is in control!! the almighty! everlasting God!! Jesus!!! i rebuke the devil that is going against the word of God almighty!! this is just sad. if you knew… in isaiah 59:13…
    and this discribes those who put falsehood in Job 15:13/Job 34:37…. but if you listen to me that we are made in God’s image and the devil is so angry he doesnt want to see God. and thats why the devil puts it in are mind that its ok to wear jewelry, to add things that’s not of God. if God wanted us to wear earring he would have put it there, or necklaces, bracelets. but all this is the devil adding to the creation of God to hide his image. satan is angry that us humans get another chance to go to heaven and he is trying his hardest to stop it. just understand the fact he has got you tied up in that mind set to go against God’s word. i hope and pray that you find Jesus the true salvation the only way to heaven. and salvation means being saved. be rescued by Jesus. the one who came as a baby(CHRISTmas), then died on the cross for your sins(Easter), and soon coming back again very soon(???). Jesus loves you but hates the sin. God bless and a happy new year.

  92. TT
    December 31st, 2011 at 9:43 am

    Josh, here it is the last day of 2011 going into 2012 and your article is still making an impact on ppl. Keep up the good work. Allow God to continue to use you. I enjoyed the article. It makes you think and decide for yourself and not just take the word of someone else which may be based upon truth and scripture or may be based upon tradition. God bless and Happy New Year.

  93. kofi
    January 9th, 2012 at 6:57 pm

    God bless you for whatever investment you are making into the kindom of God through sharing as John the elder puts it[what we have seen and heard and handled,& we say the things we have head and testify to the things we have seen]i have been a christian for almost 20yrs.i have not woried about these things untill i traveled and seeking a penticostal church to worship i found upc.i was happy and at home with the holiness preaching untill i began to realize that woman wearing men atire and men wearing women atire is or seem to be more abomination than fornication.infact all the holiness is more about what to wear and not to wear.my spirit came under bondage,the liberty wherewith christ has made me free seem to leave me.i began to search untill i came to your site and thank God what my spirit agrees on and the interpretation my heart gives witness to is what exactly i came to find on your site.my heart just rested.thank you.i left the church not becouse they are bad.but not to offend them for their conciense sake as bible says if meet will offend your brother,for his sake dont eat,i can stay and not put it on after all i know my salvation in and through Jesus Christ has nothing to do with what i eat or dont eat or what i put on. the woman who broked the costly alabasta ointment and poured it on Jesus.we have every right to use every blessing that God has bless us in this life as christians untill we deside not to as paul desided not to marry.[i will like to study with you via my email,send and cntact me with any helpfull lesons.thank you and God bless you.

  94. Josh (Site Admin)
    January 18th, 2012 at 3:03 am

    “in the name of JESUS”, I appreciate your concern :). If we both pray then we can’t go wrong :)

    You may want to check out “My Story” (on the top navbar) for a little more background on where I’m coming from.

    In Christ,
    - Josh S.

  95. Tina
    January 19th, 2012 at 5:55 am

    Praise the Lord!

    Let the beauty of Jesus alone be seen in us!

    Let us examine ourselves and prepare for the second coming of our Lord. Let us share the love of Jesus to all non-chrisitans and pray for their salvation.

  96. Adan Alvear
    January 22nd, 2012 at 10:07 am

    Men always try to justify His own heart. It is easier to find escuses instead of obeying the scriptures. One thing I have learned. The Bible NEVER contradicts it self. Is the OT right or the NT wrong? NO WAY! All scripture is inspired BY GOD. Today your are justifying jewlery, Tomorrow GAY MARRIAGE! Repent and convert.

  97. Jessen Baby
    January 30th, 2012 at 10:58 am

    The bible ultimately doesnt say the goodness of gold ornaments or silver ornaments. The ultimatum of bible teaching is the second coming of Jesus Christ. According to bible, there are strong versus about not wearing ornaments. Can anyone deny that? As somebody commented you justify ornaments today…tomorrow gay marriage… and so on. the catholic church taught people to pray to mary and dead spirits was like this came to churches.
    I wish your eyes to be opened to know the essence of the scripture rather sticking worldly things. Please read the bible carefully whether Jesus taught wearing ornaments nor the desciples and the first believers. The bible and its true teaching stays for ever whosoever comes with new teaching to wear ornaments and judge the one doesnt wear ornaments.Our God is precious than ornaments so wait for Him rather thinking on the ornaments. Did peter, jacob, paul or any of the apostle wear a gold or silver while they were martyred? OR Jesus in the cross? They were examples for us so follow them rather being under and surge for virtuality.

  98. franklin
    January 30th, 2012 at 8:02 pm

    Believers of God, why bother debating over these things. Apostle paul wrote in colossians that we are complete in Christ Jesus. B e not decieved by anyone who urges us to do things or to cease from doing things which are according to the doctrines of men. PRO JEWELRY folks you are just showing how carnal you are by defending things that are here on earth. Christ is only using it in his parables as an allegory of beauty. Parables are not to be literally followed but to be understood. Here is an example of Christ teachings that nobody takes literally, MAT. 18:8,9. HE SAYS IF THY HAND COMMITETH SIN CUT IT OFF,IT IS BETTER FOR YOU TO ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN MAIMED.Surely all of you here committed sins by your hand and yet nobody chopped them off.Do you see my point here people. But when you have read tyhe story of the prodigal son and saw the word ring there, you automatically say that it is ok.

    ANTI JEWELRY FOLKS, you made yourselves legalistics like the pharisees. Jewelry is in itself innocent. You condemn people TO BE SINNING WHEN THEY WEAR IT.
    MY WHOLE POINT IS THIS THAT WE ARE COMPLETE IN CHRIST. WE DON’T NEED JEWELRY TO PREACH THE GOSPEL, WE DON’T NEED JEWELRY TO LOOK GOOD, WE DON’T NEED JEWELRY TO BE HAPPY, WE DON’T NEED JEWELRY TO LET PEOPLE SEE OUR RICHES.
    WE ARE COMPLETE IN CHRIST. CHRIST IS OUR JOY,HAPPINESS,CONTENTMENT AND SATISFACTION. THAT IS WHY APOSTLE PAUL SAID IN COLOSSIANS 3 THAT IF YE THEN BE RISEN WITH CHRIST SEEK THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE ABOVE AND IN VERSE 2,SET YOUR AFFECTIONS ON THINGS ABOVE NOT ON THE THINGS ON EARTH.
    BRETHREN THESE THINGS ARE GOING TO PERISH SO WHY CARE WEARING IT AND DEFENDING IT AS THOUGH YOUR LIFE DEPEND ON IT.

    COLOSSIANS 3:10 PUT ON THE NEW MAN,WHICH IS RENEWED IN KNOWLEDGE AFTER THE IMAGE OF HIM THAT CREATED HIM.

  99. Ann
    February 1st, 2012 at 10:42 pm

    I really can’t believe that this is such an issue. If for whatever reason you truly feel…convicted…to not wear jewelry, then don’t wear it! If you feel absolutely no conviction about wearing it, then wear it if you want to!

    Somehow, I believe when we come face to face with Jesus He will not be condemning us either way…unless….we somehow idolize our jewelry. But we can idolize anything. And sometimes not realize it. I was on a Christian cruise last summer and met some terrific people. A gentleman sitting at our dinner table shared something with us that I will never forget. He was talking about his son-in-law being minister of music at a church and how in love he (the gentleman) became with the music ministry. Sounds great, doesn’t it? He said he then realized that he was going to church looking so forward to the music that he felt convicted that he was beginning to worship the worship music instead of God! Wow! He said he repented and now he feels much better about his approach to worship music. But that made me wonder, how many of us do things like that? We don’t realize that we do. ANYTHING can be made “wrong” when our hearts are not right, or when we lose focus, or when we concentrate so much on those things we see (physical appearances) and things we cannot see (hearts).

    I wish our lives and the world in which we live was so good that all we had to concentrate on from a biblical/world view was something so unimportant as wearing jewelry or not. People, there are so many more important things than this!

    Josh, I know you do not want to discuss/debate the whole oneness/trinity thing so you may delete this entire paragraph. But frankly, it sickens me to read and hear all the debates and the animosity they (the debates) create about Matthew 28:19. Everyone argues over the literal meaning of…baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit…..when seemingly completely ignoring what I think is the most important part of the verse: …Go and make disciples of all the nations…. Hmmm….we are instructed by Christ to deliver the Gospel to all parts and nations of the world and we don’t. We stay here, in our local churches, go to our scheduled services at a building and fight over who is right and who is wrong. Over things ranging from wearing jewelry, make-up, pants to what is actually said when one publicly professes his/her faith and symbolically dies and is resurrected with Christ. Hmmmm…..wonder how He feels about that.

    Good thing He sees beyond what we wear and sees our hearts and forgives us so often and so much and so repeatedly…..

  100. Josh (Site Admin)
    February 2nd, 2012 at 5:38 pm

    Ann,

    I generally avoid the subject of Oneness vs. The Trinity because it didn’t have a bearing on why I left, which is what this Web site is about. That’s not to say I’ll never do an article on the subject, but debates about it tend to attract the type of people who like to do nothing but argue in circles. With that said, I couldn’t agree more with your statement. I thought you were right on.

    In Christ,
    Josh S.

  101. Dina
    February 2nd, 2012 at 9:56 pm

    I have several family members who are UPC and have questioned some if their teachings. I have come to this conclusion: religious rules and rituals can place someone in bondage, and Jesus came to set the captives free. Wearing jewelry, make-up, and pants don’t mean I am “free”, but I will not place myself into religious bondage for man’s approval. I see nothing wrong with any of those things, but I do place a high emphasis in modesty. Seek God’s will for your life, and remember that each man shall work out his own salvation with fear and trembling.

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