Editorial October 4, 1913 Issue

Apparel

Annie M. Knott

The subject of apparel is often presented in the Scriptures, showing that from the earliest times mankind have considered clothing to be as necessary as food, a fact which Jesus commented upon in his Sermon on the Mount, when he bade his followers to take no thought for either, but to seek "first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness" and that then all these things would be "added." The great Teacher has here no word of condemnation for those who delight in dress, but he does say that "Solomon in all his glory" was not arrayed like one of the lilies of the field.

In seeking "first" the kingdom of God, the subject of apparel is surely made secondary to righteousness, and if one's attire does not represent the mental qualities of honesty, purity, and unselfishness, his or her right to a place in the kingdom may well be questioned. If, for instance, one wears clothing for which the maker has not been paid, or the purchase of which lays a heavy burden upon another, the "righteousness" demanded by Christ Jesus has been made secondary to the plea of personal sense, and we have instead a blind following of those who in all the ages were ready to exchange the things of Soul for the sensuous splendors of the world,—"the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life." In the Bible we read of many who were "gorgeously appareled," and the prophets of the earlier day did not fail to sound their warnings against those who forgot righteousness and wantonly displayed their adornments, and who did not hesitate to "grind the faces of the poor."

While we have no direct statements from Christ Jesus on the subject of apparel, beyond those already noted, we find in Peter's first epistle some vital utterances which should be pondered by all students of Christian Science, especially by those who represent the cause as readers in our churches, and whose example should count for so much to all who attend the services. The apostle speaks against outward adorning, and makes a strong plea for inward and spiritual grace, also "the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price." He adds that "the holy women" of the olden time, "who trusted in God," thus adorned themselves, and shall this be less true of the women who today are "professing godliness with good works," to quote St. Paul?

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit

Apparel

We'd love to hear from you!

Sign up for unlimited access