The Christian & Modesty

Introduction. With the change of seasons and warmer weather coming, it is fitting for us to consider what the Bible teaches about the responsibilities of Christians regarding modesty. In this lesson we will consider the meaning of “modesty” in the New Testament and some issues that we must consider regarding how this must be applied in our lives.

  I. The Meaning of “Modesty.”

Two Words are translated “modest” in the New Testament:
  1. Gr. Kosmios (adj.).  2 in NT. Trans. in KJV “modest, good behavior.”
    1. I Timothy 2:9,10 - “modest apparel” with...
      1. “propriety” -  Gr. aidos “1) a sense of shame or honour, modesty, bashfulness, reverence, regard for others, respect”
      2. “moderation” - Gr. sophrosune  “1) soundness of mind,  2) self-control, sobriety”
    2. I Timothy 3:2,3 - “good behavior”
  2. Gr. Kosmeo (vb.).  10 times in NT. Translated in KJV “adorn (5), garnish (4), trim (1).”
    1. I Timothy 2:9 - “order with orderly apparel”
    2. In the sense of order - “put in order” (Matthew 12:44, Luke 11:25).  Of lamps “trimmed” (Matthew 25:7).
    3. In the sense of adornment.
      1. Of tombs.  (Matthew 23:29).
      2. Of buildings.  (Matthew 25:7, Luke 21:5, Revelation 21:19).
      3. Of people.
        1. as a bride. (fig, Rev. 21:2).
        2. with the doctrine of Christ. (Titus 2:10).
        3. with the hidden person of the heart. (I Peter 3:4,5).
II.  Considerations & Applications.
  1. What does the Lord consider to be modest?
    1. Genesis 2:25  - at first no shame.
    2. Genesis 3:7 - fig leaves an insufficient covering.
    3. Genesis 3:21 -  God made tunics of skin.  “Tunic” - Heb. kuttonet  “a long shirt-like garment.”
    4. Exodus 28:41-42 - the priest’s garments.
    5. I Peter 3:3,4 - showy adornment.
  2. Are we responsible for what others think?
    1. Each of us is ultimately responsible for our own thoughts (James 1:13,14).
    2. Christians must never put stumbling blocks before others (Romans 14:7-13).