1 Timothy 2:9-10 9Likewise, I also want women to adorn themselves with appropriate clothing with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or expensive clothes, 10but with what is fitting for women who profess godliness, through good works.
Paul shifts his exhortation to focus upon the women of the church. The word women (gynē), like the word for “men” in verse 8, can refer to either a female or wife. Since the context suggests the setting of corporate worship, it fits better to interpret the word as speaking to all women in the church. The issues of these verses go beyond the home and can apply to all women. The verb I want is assumed from verse 8 and indicates Paul’s directions for how women can best live out their faith in that time and culture. He does not address the issue of prayer, but how a woman dresses could influence by her prayers and those of the men in the congregation.
The basic point is Paul makes is that women should dress modestly in ways appropriate for that culture. The words used in verse 9 are specialized terms within the first-century and rare for the New Testament. Paul directs the women of the church to dress in ways that would not entice the men of the church and take their attention away from prayer. Modesty (aidous) is a word used in the context of reverence that does not cause others to be shamed or embarrassed. It describes something that is culturally appropriate that brings honor and respect to a person. Self-control (sōphrosynē) is an important character quality and is repeated many times in the Pastoral Epistles (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 1:7; Titus 1:9; 2:2, 5, 6, 9, 15). It refers to living in a way that moderate, controlled, and appropriate. Women who dress in this way bring honor to their husbands and families. It is used again in verse 15 for how women can live out their faith.
Paul next lists how women should not dress. Having fancy hair, wearing jewelry, and putting on stylish clothes would grab the attention of people. The natural tendency would be to stare, gawk, or for some men, fantasize. There is nothing wrong is dressing well, but doing it in a way that draws people attention can be a problem. It should be remembered that Paul is referring to the context of the gathered church, but the principles can be applied outside of the church setting. The things Paul describes here could also be signs of wealth and could be used as a form of boasting. How a person dresses says a lot what is inside that person.
The principles behind this passage can apply also to men, but are especially important to women because of the fleshly nature of the male gender. Many sexual problems begin with alluring clothing or lack of it. Christians should dress is nice, simple, and appropriate ways that bring glory to God and not themselves. Paul gives the standard in verse 10 as godliness leading to good works. Godliness (theosebeia) has a strong ethical meaning that that is anchored in what pleases God. Women should focus on what pleases God and not what attracts people to their appearance. The result will be good works and deeds that point people to salvation in Christ.
For older posts, click here.