Biblical Perspectives on Jewelry and Inward Adorning

Followers of God are called to prioritize the internal beauty of a Christlike character over the outward display of gold and jewelry. True adornment consists of a meek and quiet spirit, which is of great price in the sight of God 1 Peter 3:3-4PH157 14.1+1.

The Biblical Perspective on Ornaments

The Scriptures provide clear guidance on the use of jewelry and its impact on the heart:

• The Injunction Against Gold: Apostles Paul and Peter explicitly instruct that believers should not adorn themselves with gold, pearls, or costly array, but rather with good works and modesty 1 Timothy 2:9-10+1RH March 28, 1882, par. 7.

• A Symbol of Vanity: Wearing jewelry is often associated with pride, the lust of the eyes, and a desire to be admired by the worldARSH November 23, 1897, page 744.6+2.

• Idolatry and Diversion: Using gold for personal decoration is viewed as a species of idolatry that consumes time and resources that should be dedicated to soul-culture and God's work4T 644.3+2.

• History of Removal: Throughout history, God’s people have been called to put away their ornaments as an act of self-abasement and preparation for worship, such as when Jacob’s family hid their earrings under an oak Genesis 35:4PP 205.3+1.

Spiritual Implications of Outward Display

• Weakening of Faith: A display of gold and gaudy ornaments is a certain indication of a weak head and a proud heart2MR 2.2.

• Hindrance to Influence: While some argue that gold improves their influence, the reality is that expensive dress gives an incorrect representation of the truth and reveals a lack of spiritualityLS 113.3+1.

• The Snare of Fashion: Following worldly fashions in jewelry imperils the soul’s salvation and creates a barrier to obtaining the "inward adorning" promised by ChristPH157 14.1+1.

Practical Christian Stewardship

• A Better Use for Means: The money typically spent on useless ornaments and jewelry should be redirected to the cause of God, such as purchasing religious literature to help those in darknessYI November 5, 1896, Art. A, par. 3+1.

• Call to Sacrifice: Those who possess jewelry are encouraged to sell these "idols," even at a loss, to practice self-denial and support the Lord's treasuryBDOC 1.77+1.

• Simplicity in Dress: Christians should dress in a modest and becoming way that allows them to be received everywhere without attracting undue attention to the personBDOC 1.77+2.

Historical Examples and Warnings

• Israel at Sinai: The collection of golden earrings led to the creation of the golden calf, demonstrating how ornaments can lead to shameful apostasy Exodus 32:2-4TM 99.3+1.

• Gideon’s Snare: Even a leader like Gideon fell into a snare when he requested golden ornaments from the people to create a spurious object of worshipBHOTV3 128.1.

• The Daughters of Zion: The Lord warned that He would take away the "bravery" of tinkling ornaments, rings, and nose jewels as a judgment upon haughtiness Isaiah 3:16-21ARSH June 16, 1859, page 30.4.

While items like a simple, functional clasp for a collar or a pocket watch for timekeeping are considered serviceable and not inconsistent with these principles, the intentional wearing of jewelry for decoration is to be discarded by those looking for Christ’s comingBDOC 1.82+2. Our goal should be the "white robes" and "jeweled crowns" that Christ rewards to the unselfish, which are far more valuable than any earthly decorationRH December 19, 1878, par. 13.