Modesty and Unity: Understanding Paul's Teachings

Summary

### Summary

Today, we delved into one of the most debated and challenging passages in the Bible, 1 Timothy 2:9-15, focusing specifically on verses 9-10. This passage addresses the topic of modesty and submission, particularly in the context of women in the church. We began by acknowledging that different theological frameworks can lead to varying interpretations of these verses. However, our goal was to understand the text within its historical and cultural context, particularly in relation to the worship of Artemis in Ephesus.

Paul's instructions to women about modesty and proper clothing are not merely about avoiding provocative dress but are deeply rooted in the cultural and social dynamics of the time. In Ephesus, the followers of Artemis, a chaste warrior goddess, were known for their elaborate hairstyles and expensive clothing, which were symbols of their social status and wealth. Paul’s admonition to dress modestly was a call to avoid flaunting wealth and social status in the church, which could create divisions and distractions.

Moreover, Paul’s emphasis on modesty is closely tied to the concept of submission. In the early church, the rejection of external adornment was seen as part of a woman's submission to her husband and recognition of her place among men. This is echoed in Peter's similar instructions in 1 Peter 3:1-4, where he links modesty with a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God's sight.

The broader principle here is that in the body of Christ, distinctions of wealth, status, and gender should not create divisions. Instead, we are called to consider others above ourselves, fostering unity and mutual respect. This principle applies universally, not just to women but to all believers, as we seek to live out our faith in a way that honors God and edifies the church.

### Key Takeaways

1. Modesty and Submission: Modesty in dress is not just about avoiding provocative clothing but about not flaunting wealth and social status. This principle is tied to the broader biblical call for women to submit to male leadership in the church, reflecting a heart of humility and respect. [51:07]

2. Cultural Context: Understanding the cultural background of Ephesus, particularly the worship of Artemis, helps us see why Paul emphasized modesty. The followers of Artemis were known for their elaborate adornments, which symbolized their social status. Paul’s instructions were aimed at preventing such displays from creating divisions in the church. [47:43]

3. Unity in the Body of Christ: In the church, distinctions of wealth, status, and gender should not create divisions. Paul’s call for modesty is a call to unity, reminding us that in Christ, we are all one, and our external appearances should not hinder our fellowship or worship. [49:03]

4. Respecting Others: Modesty is also about considering others above ourselves. Our choices in dress should not cause distractions or temptations for others. This principle applies universally, encouraging all believers to act in ways that promote mutual respect and edification. [54:56]

5. Leadership and Submission: True leadership in the church is marked by submission to God and to one another. Women are called to demonstrate their godly character through their conduct, which includes modesty and submission. This does not diminish their value but highlights their role as fellow heirs in the ministry. [56:57]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[43:13] - Introduction and Context
[43:48] - Difficult Passages in 1 Timothy
[44:55] - Theological Frameworks and Interpretations
[45:42] - The Challenge of Understanding Paul's Words
[46:35] - Respectful Disagreement and Scholarship
[47:11] - Recommended Reading on the Topic
[48:30] - Prayer and Introduction to the Passage
[49:03] - Context from Last Week
[49:58] - Paul's Instructions to Women
[51:07] - Modesty and Submission
[52:01] - Balanced Conversation on Modesty
[54:56] - Considering Others Above Ourselves
[56:01] - Rooted in Christ's Example
[56:57] - Leadership and Submission in the Church
[01:00:27] - Respectable vs. Self-Respecting Clothing
[01:01:15] - Modesty and Avoiding Offense
[01:03:09] - Personal Example of Modesty
[01:05:18] - The Impact of Distraction
[01:07:31] - Expectations in Different Contexts
[01:08:49] - Universal Principles of Modesty
[01:09:19] - Paul's Actual Focus on Modesty
[01:12:01] - Historical Context of Artemis
[01:19:06] - False Teachings in Ephesus
[01:23:02] - Cultural Residue in the Church
[01:30:02] - Universal and Specific Reasons for Modesty
[01:35:45] - Evil of Favoritism in the Church
[01:36:30] - Mindfulness in Dress
[01:37:29] - Submission and Authority
[01:40:27] - God's Order in Leadership
[01:45:29] - Husbands and Wives in Submission
[01:47:46] - Conclusion and Prayer

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
1 Timothy 2:9-10 (ESV): "Likewise also that 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 Peter 3:1-4 (ESV): "Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious."

Philippians 2:3 (ESV): "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves."

### Observation Questions
1. According to 1 Timothy 2:9-10, what specific instructions does Paul give to women regarding their appearance and behavior in the church?
2. How does 1 Peter 3:1-4 describe the kind of adornment that is precious in God's sight?
3. What does Philippians 2:3 instruct believers to do in their interactions with others, and how does this relate to the concept of modesty discussed in the sermon? [54:56]
4. In the sermon, what cultural context in Ephesus does the pastor mention that helps explain Paul's emphasis on modesty? [47:43]

### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Paul ties the concept of modesty in dress to the broader principle of submission in the church? [51:07]
2. How does understanding the cultural background of Artemis worship in Ephesus help us interpret Paul's instructions in 1 Timothy 2:9-10? [47:43]
3. What does it mean to "consider others above ourselves" in the context of how we dress and present ourselves in the church? [54:56]
4. How does the principle of unity in the body of Christ, as discussed in the sermon, challenge the way we think about distinctions of wealth, status, and gender in the church? [49:03]

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own wardrobe choices. Are there ways in which your clothing might unintentionally flaunt wealth or status? How can you adjust your choices to foster unity and respect within the church? [51:07]
2. Think about a time when you felt judged or distracted by someone else's appearance in church. How did it affect your ability to worship? What steps can you take to ensure your own appearance does not become a distraction for others? [54:56]
3. How can you practice the principle of considering others above yourself in your daily interactions, not just in how you dress but in other areas of life? [54:56]
4. In what ways can you demonstrate a "gentle and quiet spirit" in your relationships, as described in 1 Peter 3:1-4? How can this attitude impact your witness to others? [56:57]
5. Discuss the idea of submission as presented in the sermon. How can you embrace this biblical principle in your own life, whether in the context of marriage, church leadership, or other relationships? [56:57]
6. How can you encourage and support others in your church community to dress and act in ways that promote unity and mutual respect? What practical steps can you take to foster a culture of modesty and humility? [49:03]
7. Reflect on the broader principle of unity in the body of Christ. How can you actively work to break down distinctions of wealth, status, and gender in your church community? What specific actions can you take this week to promote inclusivity and unity? [49:03]

Devotional

Day 1: Modesty Reflects Humility and Respect
Description: Modesty in dress is not merely about avoiding provocative clothing; it is about not flaunting wealth and social status. In the cultural context of Ephesus, where the worship of Artemis was prevalent, women adorned themselves with elaborate hairstyles and expensive clothing to display their social status. Paul’s instructions to dress modestly were aimed at preventing such displays from creating divisions within the church. This principle is tied to the broader biblical call for women to submit to male leadership in the church, reflecting a heart of humility and respect. [51:07]

1 Peter 3:3-4 (ESV): "Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious."

Reflection: Think about your wardrobe choices. Are there items you wear to impress others or display your status? How can you adjust your choices to reflect humility and respect for others in your church community?

Day 2: Understanding Cultural Context
Description: Understanding the cultural background of Ephesus, particularly the worship of Artemis, helps us see why Paul emphasized modesty. The followers of Artemis were known for their elaborate adornments, which symbolized their social status. Paul’s instructions were aimed at preventing such displays from creating divisions in the church. By understanding the historical and cultural context, we can better grasp the intent behind Paul’s words and apply the principles to our own lives in a way that fosters unity and respect within the body of Christ. [47:43]

1 Corinthians 8:9 (ESV): "But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak."

Reflection: Reflect on a cultural practice or trend that you participate in. How might this practice affect others in your church community? What steps can you take to ensure it does not become a stumbling block for others?

Day 3: Unity in the Body of Christ
Description: In the church, distinctions of wealth, status, and gender should not create divisions. Paul’s call for modesty is a call to unity, reminding us that in Christ, we are all one, and our external appearances should not hinder our fellowship or worship. This principle applies universally, encouraging all believers to act in ways that promote mutual respect and edification. By focusing on what unites us rather than what divides us, we can foster a community that reflects the love and unity of Christ. [49:03]

Galatians 3:28 (ESV): "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: Consider a time when you felt divided from others in your church due to external factors like wealth or status. How can you actively work to bridge those divides and promote unity within your church community?

Day 4: Considering Others Above Ourselves
Description: Modesty is also about considering others above ourselves. Our choices in dress should not cause distractions or temptations for others. This principle applies universally, encouraging all believers to act in ways that promote mutual respect and edification. By being mindful of how our actions and appearances affect others, we can create an environment that is conducive to worship and fellowship, free from unnecessary distractions. [54:56]

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Reflection: Think of a recent situation where your actions or appearance might have distracted or affected others. How can you be more mindful of others in similar situations in the future?

Day 5: Leadership and Submission in the Church
Description: True leadership in the church is marked by submission to God and to one another. Women are called to demonstrate their godly character through their conduct, which includes modesty and submission. This does not diminish their value but highlights their role as fellow heirs in the ministry. By embracing a heart of humility and respect, both men and women can contribute to a church environment that honors God and fosters spiritual growth. [56:57]

Ephesians 5:21 (ESV): "Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ."

Reflection: Reflect on your role within your church community. How can you demonstrate a heart of humility and submission in your interactions with others? What specific actions can you take to support and honor the leadership in your church?

Quotes

1. "But listen, today we are going to begin a message through what some may argue is potentially some of the most difficult passages in the Bible to deal with. These are these is that forever debated, forever argued, forever disagreed upon passage. First Timothy two, nine through 15. But we're only going to look at two today. I ain't going to make y'all mad. It means too much in one day. So we're going to start with a week to recover. Then we'll come back for week number two." [43:48] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Now, obviously, the truth is, we know that there is only one true and real interpretation. However, in our infallible, flawed abilities to understand or to see in part, some texts aren't that clear to us. And so we do the best we can to interpret it, do the best we can to demonstrate how we're getting there. But if you so happen to hear me talk today and come away with a completely different understanding of the passage. Bless your soul. However, on the way of blessing your soul, make sure if you choose to tell me that you disagree, that you do me the respect of at least coming to me with scholarship and research and not your emotions. Amen." [45:42] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Ladies, in the same way that a man's unholy behavior can hinder and distract from deeds of worship, so can your wardrobe. In the same way that a man's unholy behavior can hinder and distract from deeds of worship, so can your wardrobe. And I know this is a touchy subject, right? Come on, just teach it. We know this is a touchy subject. And to be fair, it's touchy. On one side, I understand where it's kind of like frustration, where it's like, how come every time we talk about modesty, it's always talking about directed towards the women and how the women dress." [51:07] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The Bible does not tell us to tempt each other or cause offense to each other and then point the finger at the tempted and the offended. All right? We got to remember that. If we are doing things that we know can be tempting, we don't get tempted. To do them without care and then point the finger at the one who got tempted or offended by the thing we willfully chose to do. Right? And what the Bible teaches us instead, Romans 14 and 13, So that text has way more implications than just modesty. It's in general." [54:08] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "But if you are a Christian, the reality is Christianity is rooted in considering others. It is rooted in that. That's why after Paul tells the church to consider others highly, more highly than yourself, in verse 5 he says, having this mind that is in Christ Jesus. In other words, we do this because this is what Christ did. We follow in his example. He considered us more highly than himself, first and foremost, when he chose to come to the cross on our behalf. He didn't do nothing. He did it. He did it for us." [56:01] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "And so, the instructions addressed respectfully does not relate to our internal self-evaluation whether it relates to our external interactions with others. The other reason why is this word, after he says proper clothing, he says modestly, right? Which is that Greek word, ideos, which means to not cause shame or offense towards another, right? So, this word modesty that he uses there, by the way, Paul, the only one that used this word. You can search the Bible in this Greek word. He's the only one that used it. And when he uses it, the word means to not... To not cause shame or offense towards another." [01:01:15] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "In a place where different ethnicities, genders, economic statuses, and classism all come together to worship, indication of rank should have no place. Should have no place. Remember, Paul says in Galatians 3, 27 and 28. For all of you who were baptized in Christ. Have clothed yourself with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek. There is neither slave nor free. There is neither male nor female. For you are all one in Christ. Paul says in the worship place, there is all different types of people present. You got men. And you got women. You got free men. You got slave men. You got Greeks. You got Gentiles. He said you got all of these different classes of people. But in Christ, we all come together and we worship together." [01:30:39] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "When a person comes to the faith in Christ, the divisions and distinctions of the world do not apply. This doesn't mean that men and women roles don't exist. We I am not egalitarian are those words they use, right? No, a man is a man and a woman is a woman. We're going to stay there, right? Doesn't mean that there's not ethnic distinctions. Yes, you black, you white, you Asian, you Filipino, you would like that show ethnicity, embrace it, love it, be who you are. So we're not erasing that, you know, you're no longer African. Yes, you is. That's why our core value is belonging. We want you to feel like you have an authentic sense of worship here without assimilating to the culture, meaning be who you are." [01:33:44] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "So again, I'm not saying be busted. I'm not saying you got to wear buddies because somebody else got to wear buddies. I'm not saying that. Not. But I'm saying be mindful when you come into the house of God, making sure that how you present yourself is not doing something to somebody else that is harming them. Make sense? That's why he says, okay, now, let's get to what y'all wanted me to say. Because that's universal. But Paul's still dealing with women. And he's still saying this to women for a specific reason. And the reason that he's saying this to women is the second cuss word as we get ready to get out of here. There's a context that takes place between verse 9 and 15." [01:36:30] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "Submission is not about being less than. You can be a fellow heir in the ministry and still be in submission to male leadership. And so you don't have to try to usurp it. There's going to be some bad leadership and some bad thoughts. I get that. But when you have a good male leadership, you don't have to usurp anything. Because we understand our role of leadership. And we understand, especially as a husband, one of the verses that I always hold on to. When I understand my role and responsibility to my wife is in first Peter three, eight, where he says husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way as with someone weaker. Since she is a woman." [01:45:29] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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