In recent generations, teachings surrounding biblical modesty have been focused mainly on dress, suggesting that outward appearance gives way to the serpent’s temptations. However, these teachings come from the very serpent himself as modesty has nothing to do with controlling other’s lust problems. In God’s Word, modesty is speaking of not wearing costly attire, so as to not hide the beauty of a renewed heart.
Modesty is for all saints, especially in today’s world, but back then, women were especially influenced by a culture infiltrated by false god worship that over-accentuated looks. Of course, this still happens today, but culture today preys on men and women with materialism, costly attire, jewelry, makeup, plastic surgery, etc. focused on accentuating fake image and worldliness, not the genuine person and purity of the heart.
The reason modesty teachings have become so polarized is not because women are offended. It’s because it’s not representative of what the Bible is actually teaching. The truth is being twisted and used by wolves to manipulate and control. When modesty is equated with lust, it divides believers, minimizes sin, leads to bondage, and the meaning gets lost.
Modesty is the expression of authentic spirituality over fake worldliness, which is where the desires of the Holy Spirit will eventually lead all born-again saints of Christ in God’s timing. Forcing behavior modification through condemning and pressurized teachings and environment is not pleasing to God because He’s pleased with action from faith, not from outward coercion.
The false teachings surrounding modesty — lust, specific outfits, hairstyles, etc. — have actually led to more idolatry, self-righteousness, condemnation, and worldliness, which are the very sins the truth is guiding saints to avoid.
Biblical modesty is a Holy Spirit conviction and desire to love and glorify God by denying the self, forsaking the world, and resting satisfied in the fullness and purity of Christ.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. – John 10:10
Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. – Hebrews 11:6
For whatever does not proceed from faith is sin. – Romans 14:23
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever. – 1 John 2:15-17
Women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works. – 1 Timothy 2:9-10
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. – Galatians 5:1
