Thou Shalt Not Wear Denim

There are many discussions about what is proper and not proper for one to wear to a church service as a member and/or as a leader. Over the last decade or so, many people have become aware that styles and patterns are changing when it comes to attire etiquette in the church. I will chime in with a simplistic answer without 40 paragraphs of theology and rhetoric.

For members and leadership alike I believe that one can be dressed nicely without having to wear a three piece suit. (Although three piece suits are nice.) For me, I can feel comfortable wearing khakis and a polo shirt or jeans with a blazer without feeling like a "what not to wear" church-fashion sinner.

There are some that feel like anything less then a suit and tie is not becoming of a minister or a pious christian. They would suggest that, "since we are meeting with the King of Kings, should you not dress your best for Him?" Another person has said that, "you would dress your best for a job interview wouldn't you?"

I feel comfortable in saying that if you feel you must dress up while in church you should do so. However, don't look upon or judge the intentions of anothers heart. (Matthew 7:1) Although the above statements make sense about dressing up for an important visit or event, God meets with me all the time and I don't need to feel like I am meeting with an important stranger. Since I meet with God sometimes while in my bed clothes or while I am lounging in "comfortable clothing," I don't think that dressing up to meet him at church is going to impress Him. He sees me as I am, on the inside and out!

I believe that we must practice modesty that will not detract from anothers worship, but if we are only focused on what everyone else is wearing, are we not at church for the wrong motives?

As our culture changes and more and more people have not been "brought up in the church," I believe that we must create an atmosphere that is both warm, friendly, comfortable, and non-judgemental, without lowering standards of modesty.


"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Colossians 3:12