Does it fit?
“If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness . . . ” (1 Timothy 6:3 NKJV).
In South Asia many men wear an item of clothing called a “lungi.” This is a piece of fabric sewn together end to end into a kind of tube, which is worn skirt-style in lieu of pants. Many men of working class wear it for coolness and ease of movement while on the job. Others use it as a lounging garment in their homes. Again, it is cool and loose and once one becomes accustomed to it is quite comfortable.
I have used lungis while in Bangladesh, and enjoy them for evening lounging within my own apartment. I never wear them in the U.S. however. They just don’t feel quite the same. I am uncomfortable with them here, because they just don’t fit our customs and habits.
We are all familiar with the proverb, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” In other words, habits and customs of one place differ from those of another. What is appropriate in one circumstance would sometimes be outrageous somewhere else.
Christians should remember this principle and apply it to citizenship in the Kingdom of God. Language, dress, and behavior that is commonly accepted in the world is out of place in the Church. I do not mean just in the worship assemblies. Worldly behavior does not go with Christian faith (Romans 12:1-2).
Paul warned Timothy to correct any who teach doctrines or practices which do not accord with godliness (1 Timothy 6:3). Godliness is a state of being based on the nature and will of God the creator. It is, if you will, a distinctive culture. Some things are appropriate to that culture. Others are totally out of place.
In his letter to the Churches of Galatia Paul described some of those appropriate and inappropriate things, calling them respectively “fruits of the spirit” and “works of the flesh” (Galatians 5:19-23).
Of the fruits of the Spirit the apostle said, “Against such there is no law” (Galatians 5:23). Explaining why Christians must shun the works of the flesh he also said, “Those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” (Galatians 5:24).
In other words, behavior such as joy, peace, love, patience, goodness and faithfulness go well with faith in God. Idolatry, hatred, adultery, envy and murder do not. They are ungodly and contrary to everything Christian.
Whenever one evaluates a potential activity or characteristic, a good test is, “Does this adorn godliness?” In other words, will it help me to be a better Christian? Will it help demonstrate to others my faith in and submission to Jesus Christ? Does it fit with who I say I am?
The clothing of Asia feels good and looks appropriate in Asia. It may not be quite so acceptable in the U.S. Let us always remember that our true location is spiritual, not material. We are citizens and residents of God’s Kingdom, not just some earthly nation. May we always do and say those things which are consistent with where we are.