We have received a communication from a correspondent on the subject of dress; and, as we deeply feel the need of a word of warning on this subject, we shall quote for our readers some of the passages referred to by our correspondent, who remarks, that “it is a sad sight to see, at the table of the Lord, the jeweled hand put forth to take the bread, the emblem of that ‘broken body,’ bruised and broken for us; and also the attired head, loaded with pearls and costly array.” We quite enter into the feelings of our correspondent, and therefore it is that we call the attention of our readers to the following passages from the Word of God: “In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broidered hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array, but (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works” (1 Tim. 2:9-109In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. (1 Timothy 2:9‑10)). Again, “Whose adorning, let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price” (1 Peter 3:3-43Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. (1 Peter 3:3‑4)).
These passages are very plain, and surely they ought to act on the conscience, and govern the conduct, of those who gather round the Lord’s Table. Some may say, “It is a poor thing to preach a crusade against dress.” We reply, “It is a much poorer thing to give occasion for such a crusade.” Indeed, it is very difficult to imagine how any degree of spirituality can exist in connection with the style of dress adopted by many in the present day.
Let Christians think of these things. Let them think of the meek and lowly Jesus, and see how far they are seeking to walk in His steps. Let them think, too, “of the many dear lambs who are looking round the house of God for ‘ENSAMPLES.’” It would be sad indeed, if these precious lambs should be led into a path of self-indulgence by those who ought to encourage them in pursuing a path of self-denial.