When discussing modesty, two commonly referenced passages are 1 Timothy 2:9–10 and 1 Peter 3:1–4. While both focus specifically on women’s attire, the underlying principles apply to both men and women. These texts have slightly different contexts—1 Timothy addresses behavior within the assembly, while 1 Peter is part of a broader discussion on household conduct. Still, both emphasize a deeper truth, modesty begins with the heart. They teach that our internal mindset should shape our external appearance, highlighting the importance of humility, self-control, and a focus on godliness over outward adornment.
At its core, modesty is about choosing not to draw attention to ourselves physically but instead allowing the beauty of our spiritual character to shine. We practice modesty by using sound judgment in how we dress and present ourselves. This involves considering both our intentions and the message our clothing might send—whether it reflects worldliness or godliness. In the context of 1 Timothy 2:9–10 and 1 Peter 3:1–4, the warning is against excessive adornment—wearing extravagant or costly clothing and jewelry to draw attention to oneself. But modesty is not only about avoiding too much, it’s also about wearing enough. Just as overdressing to impress can reveal pride, underdressing can expose a heart that seeks attention in other ways. Proverbs 7:10 gives a vivid example, “And there a woman met him, with the attire of a harlot, and a crafty heart” (NKJV). In both ancient times and today, those who dressed immodestly often did so with a clear motive. While this is certainly an extreme case, it raises an important question for all of us: What is the purpose behind the clothing I’ve chosen to wear?
Jesus taught, “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile a man” (Mark 7:21–23). This challenges each of us to examine the intentions of our heart—even in something as everyday as choosing what to wear. When I stand before my closet, what drives my decisions? Am I trying to reflect godliness, or am I allowing worldliness to guide my choices? Do my clothes encourage others to focus on my body, wealth, or status—or do they help point others to Christ in me?
The Bible is clear, choosing to dress in a way that draws inappropriate attention to our bodies is a form of lewdness—something God condemns. Paul wrote, “Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness” (Galatians 5:19, NKJV). Peter also reminds believers that lewdness belongs to the old way of life, not the transformed life of a repentant follower of Christ: “For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries” (1 Peter 4:3, NKJV).
By: Jerrod Hammond