We would not take the position that whatever dress is proper and fitting on one occasion would be proper and fitting on another. What one would wear to worship God might not be fitting to wear to work in a coal mine, or what one might wear on a hike through the country might not be fitting to wear to a funeral. Certainly circumstances dictate what is proper attire.
However, it seems there is a serious error in the thinking of some Christians with reference to this matter. They think that there are circumstances under which it is altogether in order for Christian ladies and girls to appear in public dressed in a way that very likely will tempt some men to lust. If a young lady is a cheerleader, or a majorette, or if she goes swimming, it is considered perfectly in order for her to peel off every thread that covers her legs and parade herself before the eyes of all who care to look. AND BECAUSE OF THE SITUATION, NOBODY IS SUPPOSED TO BE CAUSED TO LUST! Furthermore, one who would be critical of such practices is considered evil-minded or somewhat immature.
Is there such a thing as a need for women to dress so as to avoid inciting lust? If so, does this need exist only in places other than along the sidelines at football games, around swimming pools, or in front of bands? Does not the statement of Jesus in Matthew 5:28, or Paul’s admonition in I Timothy 2:9 apply under such circumstances?
Brethren, let’s be realistic. What makes it wrong for a woman to wear short shorts to the shopping center, but right for her to parade publicly in a bathing suit at the beach? What makes it wrong for a young lady to wear her bathing suit to the supermarket, but right for her to perform in front of a band in a costume just as skimpy? Why would a Christian college have a rule against girls wearing shorts on the campus, and then permit its cheerleaders to expose their bodies all the way up to the hips while leading cheers at a ball game?
The time has come when very little is being said from the pulpit or written in the paper concerning modest apparel. Some preachers and writers have, no doubt, been frightened away from the subject by those who pretend to be so naive as to accuse those who oppose immodest apparel of having a dirty mind. This writer will not be intimidated by such accusations. No doubt the devil is laughing at those who have adopted a "situation ethics" philosophy with reference to the matter of immodest apparel.
Forest Hill News - Editors Note:
Though brother Duncan has gone on to his eternal reward, his influence is still radiating throughout the brotherhood. Since the summer season is fast approaching and lascivious dress will no doubt be permeating across our nation, we submit this timely article for your consideration. Though the article was written primarily with women under consideration, we want to remind our readers that the issue of modest apparel is not half-gender.
—Selected from the Forest Hill News
Forest Hill Church of Christ
Memphis, TN