Monday, February 7, 2011

Who Says I Can't Wear Jewelry?

Some religious groups prohibit the wearing of jewelry and if the truth were to be told, I don't know why.  As a former Seventh-day Adventist, I would venture to say, and be about 99% accurate, that the members are advised against wearing jewelry because the less money spent on jewelry, the more money they have to contribute to the church coffers. That's my take, but more importantly, I am more interested in what The Bible Says. Is not wearing jewelry a church thing or a God thing? Let's see what The Bible Says (in context)....

The Wearing of Jewelry in the Old Testament

Abraham, God’s faithful friend, sent his servant to secure a bride for his son, Isaac. To make a great impression and presentation, Abraham sent many ‘good things’ on ten camels for the bride-to-be which included jewelry.  The Bible Says in Genesis 24:22, 52-53 NIV…

22 When the camels had finished drinking, the man took out a gold nose ring weighing a beka and two gold bracelets weighing ten shekels.
52 When Abraham's servant heard what they said, he bowed down to the ground before the LORD. 53 Then the servant brought out gold and silver jewelry and articles of clothing and gave them to Rebekah; he also gave costly gifts to her brother and to her mother.

Joseph, as second in command of Egypt, also wore jewelry.  The Bible Says in Genesis 41:41-42….

41 So Pharaoh said to Joseph, "I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt." 42 Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his finger and put it on Joseph's finger. He dressed him in robes of fine linen and put a gold chain around his neck

Just as Joseph had refused to bow to the Egyptian gods, he could have politely requested not to accept Pharaoh’s ring if it were violating God’s command, but he didn’t.  The ring, clothes and gold chain represented restoration, elevation and celebration. God restored Joseph from a slave to 2nd in command of all Egypt. Becoming a new ruler and husband almost overnight was cause for great celebration.

When the Israelites left Egypt, God commanded them to ask for silver and gold from the Egyptians. In fact, they plundered Egypt.  The Bible Says in Genesis 3:21-22,

21 "And I will make the Egyptians favorably disposed toward this people, so that when you leave you will not go empty-handed. 22 Every woman is to ask her neighbor and any woman living in her house for articles of silver and gold and for clothing, which you will put on your sons and daughters. And so you will plunder the Egyptians." 

Daniel, a servant of God and a bold contender for his faith, refused to eat from the king's table BUT he did not refuse to wear the gold chain. The Bible Says in Daniel 5:29..

"Then at Belshazzar's command, Daniel was clothed in purple, a gold chain was placed around his neck, and he was proclaimed the third highest ruler in the kingdom."

Daniel was dressed in purple (the color of royalty) and given a gold chain. These tokens came as a result of his restoration from being a captive and to his elevation as Prime Minister.

The prophet Isaiah also spoke favorably of jewelry.  The Bible Says in  Isaiah 61:10 NIV…

10 I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels

The Bible Says in Jeremiah 2:31-32 NIV…

"You of this generation, consider the word of the LORD: "Have I been a desert to Israel or a land of great darkness? Why do my people say, 'We are free to roam; we will come to you no more'? 32 Does a maiden forget her jewelry, a bride her wedding ornaments? Yet my people have forgotten me, days without number."

Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, obviously saw the wearing of jewelry as a thing of great beauty.  The Bible Says in Song of Solomon 1:10-11…

10 Your cheeks are beautiful with earrings, your neck with strings of jewels. 11 We will make you earrings of gold, studded with silver

God never condemned the wearing of jewelry, in fact, He equated it with beauty.  The Bible Says in Ezekiel 28:11-13…

11 The word of the LORD came to me: 12 "Son of man, take up a lament concerning the king of Tyre and say to him: 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: "'You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. 13 You were in Eden, the garden of God;
every precious stone adorned you: ruby, topaz and emerald, chrysolite, onyx and jasper, sapphire, turquoise and beryl. Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared. 


The Wearing of Jewelry in the New Testament

As New Covenant believers, has God changed His mind about the wearing of jewelry?  Some use a passage  Peter wrote to say that jewelry is forbidden for Christians.  The Bible Says in 1 Peter 3:1-5 (MSG) …

1 The same goes for you wives: Be good wives to your husbands, responsive to their needs. There are husbands who, indifferent as they are to any words about God, will be captivated 2 by your life of holy beauty. 3 What matters is not your outer appearance—the styling of your hair, the jewelry you wear, the cut of your clothes— 4 but your inner disposition. Cultivate inner beauty, the gentle, gracious kind that God delights in. 5 The holy women of old were beautiful before God that way, and were good, loyal wives to their husbands. 6 Sarah, for instance, taking care of Abraham, would address him as "my dear husband." You'll be true daughters of Sarah if you do the same, unanxious and unintimidated.

Take note that the patriarchs' wives or ‘the holy women of old’ wore jewelry. As we read from the Old Testament, Abraham was rich with silver and gold. When he sent his servant to look for a wife for Isaac, The Bible Says, "Then the servant took ten of his master's camels and left, taking with him all kinds of good things from his master. He set out for Aram Naharaim and made his way to the town of Nahor."  Genesis 24:10

When the servant arrived, his test for the bride-to-be was based on inner beauty. Abraham’s servant prayed and asked God to let Isaac’s future bride show him a deed of inner kindness.  When Rebekah came to the well, she not only quenched his thirst but she also watered all ten of his camels.  This was indeed the answer to his prayer and his mission was considered a success.
The Bible Says in Genesis 24:22 that the servant gave Rebekah some of the 'good things' Abraham had sent, "When the camels had finished drinking, the man took out a gold nose ring weighing a beka and two gold bracelets weighing ten shekels."

Even though Abraham’s servant recognized and admired Rebekah’s outer beauty, he was won by her inner beauty of kindness and humility. Her kind deeds and unselfish attitude spoke volumes to him. He only asked for water for himself but she took delight in fetching water for his ten camels until they were full. Only then did he enhance her outer beauty with jewelry as a direct result and acknowledgment of her inner beauty and heartfelt kindness.. She became the wife of Isaac, one of the patriarchs.  In this instance, the bestowal and wearing of jewelry was a sign of elevation (becoming the wife of a patriarch) and celebration.

All Scriptures referencing the wearing of jewelry speaks of it in a very positive light EXCEPT when the Israelites used it to make the golden calf. Peter is not saying not to wear jewelry, Peter is simply emphasizing the importance of inner beauty FIRST...just like the holy women of the past.

In contrast are people who are mean-spirited, judgmental, arrogant, unkind, unmerciful, unloving and on an ego trip.  Their 'inner' selves repel people.  Their expensive jewelry and fine clothing might initially attract but when time is spent with them their outer beauty fades and eventually disappears in the eyes of those who were once attracted to them.  When the ‘inner’ person is ugly, so is the outer. Our first concern should be the ‘inner person’ not the ‘outer’.

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself told the parable of the prodigal son.  When the father saw his wayward son returning home he bestowed on him the highest honor by placing a ring on his finger.  The Bible Says in Luke 15:22-23…

22 "But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.  23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate."

If the wearing of jewelry is forbidden, why would Jesus use ‘a ring’ in this parable as a sign of the son’s restoration (no longer a hired hand), elevation (a position of honor with the best robe) and celebration (the guest of honor)?

John saw in vision all manner of precious stones in the New Jerusalem.  The Bible Says in Revelation 21:18-21….

  18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth sardonyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of pure gold, like transparent glass. 

If our feet are destined to walk on gold, a decision made by God Himself, why do Seventh-day Adventists and some other religious groups forbid and condemn the wearing of precious stones and jewelry? Is it possible that the created now knows better than the Creator?
 
Lastly, I would like to share with you a few quotes from Ellen White, the Seventh-day Adventist prophetess, regarding jewelry:

“…Do not expend one dollar of God's money in purchasing needless articles. Your money means the salvation of souls. Then let it not be spent for gems, for gold, or precious stones."  Reflecting Christ by Ellen G. White, p. 266

“Those who have bracelets, and wear gold and ornaments, had better take these idols from their persons and sell them, even if it should be for much less than they gave for them, and thus practice self-denial. Time is too short to adorn the body with gold or silver or costly apparel.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 9, Chapter Title: Ellen White on Jewelry page 117, paragraph 1.

“We warn our Christian sisters against the tendency to make their dresses according to worldly styles, thus attracting attention. The house of God is profaned by the dress of professedly Christian women of today. A fantastic dress, a display of gold chains and gaudy laces, is a certain indication of a weak head and a proud heart.” Selected Messages, Book 3, Chapter Title: Dress and Adornment page 244, paragraph 1.
Mrs. White is making it clear that God is calling on the so-called remnant church, Seventh-day Adventists, to "put away their idols" of jewelry that are used "for display and parade".

Now let us compare what Ellen White says about jewels with what God instructed Moses regarding the precious stones the High Priest, God’s representative, was required to wear.  The Bible Says in Exodus 28:15-20…

15 "Fashion a breastpiece for making decisions--the work of a skilled craftsman. Make it like the ephod: of gold, and of blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and of finely twisted linen. 16 It is to be square--a span long and a span wide--and folded double. 17 Then mount four rows of precious stones on it. In the first row there shall be a ruby, a topaz and a beryl; 18 in the second row a turquoise, a sapphire and an emerald; 19 in the third row a jacinth, an agate and an amethyst; 20 in the fourth row a chrysolite, an onyx and a jasper. Mount them in gold filigree settings.”

The High Priest was instructed to wear not one or two but twelve precious stones and their attire included finely twisted linen of gold, blue, purple and scarlet yarn.  God is about inner and outer beauty and who does it better than He.

The choice to wear jewelry or not to wear jewelry is a personal decision but it IS an option that God gives us. The members of the Seventh-day Adventist church has permitted ‘Ellen’ to take  that option away. No man, woman or institution on earth can over-rule what The Bible Says unless permission is given to do so.

Reader, we are so precious to God that He calls us His jewelsThe Bible Says in Malachi 3:17...

17 And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him."

I’m reminded of a song we sang as children entitled, When He Cometh:

When He cometh, when He cometh
To make up His jewels,
All His jewels, precious jewels,
His loved and His own.

Refrain

Like the stars of the morning,
His brightness adorning,
They shall shine in their beauty,
Bright gems for His crown.

He will gather, He will gather
The gems for His kingdom;
All the pure ones, all the bright ones,
His loved and His own.

Refrain

Little children, little children,
Who love their Redeemer,
Are the jewels, precious jewels,
His loved and His own.


Refrain

After reading what The Bible Says, do you, His precious jewel, really think that God has a problem with us wearing jewelry? Unquestionably, it's an ‘Ellen’ thing.....

With much love,
Patricia Allen

70 comments:

  1. http://www.facebook.com/#!/note.php?note_id=10150393790700510

    be blessed!

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  2. I agree. I do think that jewelry isn't condemned by God. Yes, I do think that we shouldn't go too far with it, and that it is nice to spend more time and money on God's work than on fashion. Yet, I think that banning things completely isn't what God wants us to do. It's a personal choice and no church should make that choice for people.

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  3. God created jewels for our enjoyment. They are beautiful. Heaven is described with jewels of all colors!

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    1. Jewelry was created for the purpose of reflecting Christ's beauty and righteousness. We can go back to as far as heaven, as described in Ezekiel 28, when lucifer was cast out of heaven and stripped of the jewelry that he was adorned in. Then we look at the Garden of eden and see how it was decked with all these precious stones. Lucifer in heaven, adorned with jewelry would illuminate the light/glory of God when he would have come into his presence. When God came down physically in the Garden of Eden to meet with Adam and Eve the precious stones in the Garden would reflect its spectrum of colours. But, after the first couple sinned they were banned from this beautiful place. Because Jewelry was created to reflect righteousness and we have sinned it therefore becomes an act of professed self righteousness when we put it on ourselves. We are righteous through the merit of Christ and this is symbolised in the act of christ killing that first lamb and covering our fallen parents. It was during the intermingling of the children of God and the heathen nations that God's people began adopting the practice of wearing jewelry. Yes there are many accounts of God's people wearing jewelry but what we need to understand is that the bible gives an accurate account of historic practices but it doesnt necessarily condones such practices.

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  4. I am a Seventh Day Adventist who don't believe Ellen G. White is a prophet of God. She has twisted the scripture to profit her self. People need to allow the holy spirit to guide their thoughts when reading the Bible. I fully agree with the author of this article. She is spot on !! SDA members need to drop this Ellen G White mentality and stick to the Bible and the Bible alone. You cannot serve God and Ellen G White...you will either love one and hate the other or hate the other and love the latter. Its either God or Ellen White....my fellow SDA brethren please choose Jesus and Jesus alone. Have a blessed day !!!!

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    1. Wow, you truly haven't read anything written by Ellen White...

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    2. what do you say about Genesis 35:4

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    3. With regards to Genesis 35:4, my Bible has a footnote that explains that at that time, the earrings would have had symbols of foreign Gods on them. The foreign Gods on the earrings is why they handed their earrings over; NOT because earrings are evil.

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    4. One of the reasons I am no longer a SDA. I reject their prophet.

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  5. True Seventh-day Adventist believe that Ellen G. White was an inspired writer. And not wearing jewelry is for the purpose of modesty, humility, purity and simplicity.

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  6. Confusion is the trademark of the enemy. God above all is a God of order. When there's confusion, there's disorder. 2 Timothy 2:16 KJV says "But sun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness." The greatest commision in the bible is to be fishers of men and spread the Gospel throughout the world, in so doing we hasten the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.

    We are to focus on Heavenly things at all times, because that is our destination. the things of this world are vain and are subject to perish. There should not be any reason why any Christians should work themselves out about temporary things. Thank God, Salvation is a personal matter! No earthly entity can guarantee anyone into heaven, but the grace of God and our desire to let our lives reflect His character upon having made contact with Him. God is not coming back for the good but for the obedient. The moment one thinks they are good, they stop following instructions that will lead them to improve. Living in this world, there's always room for improvement. Therefore, we strive to cling and abide by the words of the One which is constant. He who was, is and remain the same forever! He is the epitome of Holiness! Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Daniel, David tried their best, but at the end of the day we are to emulate Jesus; He who is able to remove the sins of the world! Our Christian walk is not a walk of convenience. It is a walk that appears undesirable to the masses: Wide is the way which leads to perdition and strait is that which leads to eternal life! The Christian walk is not a human invention. It is a Divine prescription. Let God dictate how we should walk, not the Israelites!

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  7. am sorry to hear that u are a former seventh-day adventist. from reading this i can see why. We are all human and are bound to make mistakes, and one of those mistakes is when we put our focus on things which are not important. one of those things is wearing of jewelry. we tend to go too far with saying we arent supposed to wear it,and thats bad.but let me ask a few questions as to y u shud wear it. Are u wearing it for glory of urself or of God? Is the jewelry a hindrance of your salvation? if not go ahead and wear but when the church discourages it,it want all to be equal. not everybody can wear jewelry let alone expensive ones. so if i come with expensive ones and another doesnt,they will feel left out then there will be division in the church due to who has more and who has less. Think of this matter in that context and you will see why it is discouraged. I pray for all of you.

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    1. Soooo, should I live poor and not buy a good working vehicle because fellow church members can't afford it? Should I not buy a home for my family even if God has provided because other church members will.feel.left out?? That context makes no sense. The bible talks about helping the poor....well somebody has to have the means to help them...or should I become poor so the poor dont feel left out??? Then

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    2. I am glad to hear all these answer, the study of the bible should be precepts upon precepts, line upon line, a little bit there, and here. Brother and sister, the bible does not contradict itself, the Holy Spirit does not contradict itself. Exodus 3:22;" But every women shall borrow of her neighbors, and her that sejourned in her house, jewelry of silver, and jewelry of gold, and raiment,: and he shall put it upon your sons and daughters, and he shall spoil the Egyptian"
      According to this scripture only,,who are we to speak against God 's word?
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      Ellen White had been lying to the people, with all these doctrine of Men,and she taught her way,instead of teaching God way,behold, said the Lord, many false prophets will come and say this said the Lord, do not believe every spirit, but test it and see if it from God.
      If a prophet said he is speaking from the Lord? Watch and see if that prophecy will come true. What happened to the shut door Probation prophesied by Ellen White? It never came true, and the bible said clearly that none knows the day and the hour of the second coming of Christ, except the father.
      Those SDA WHO STILL BELIEVE IN ELLEN WHITE TEACHING INSTEAD OF FOCUSING ONLY ON THE BIBLE, WILL RECEIVE THE WRATH OF GOD ON THEM AS SHE.,FOR ALL THOSE WHO FOLLOW FALSE PROPHET, WILL BE TREATED THE SAME.
      FOR THOSE WHO HAVE AN EAR,THEY SHOULD LISTEN TO WHAT THE SPIRIT SAID TO THE CHURCH. YOU CAN REMAIN SDA,BUT TO BE SAVE,YOU HAVE TO FORGET ABOUT ELLEN WHITE, AND ONLY FOLLOWING THE BIBLE. WE CAN NOT SERVE2 MASTER, OUR LORD IS A JEALOUS GOD.
      NOW WHY ARE YOU SAYING IS BECAUSE THE CHURCH WANT PEOPLE TO BE EQUALLY YOKED.
      WHY DOES SOME HAVE A CAR,AND SOME NOT? WHY DOES SOME DRESSES EXPENSIVE, AND SOME CHEAPER? WHY ALL THESE DIFFERENT ARE ALLOWED IN THE CHURCH? THINK ABOUT IT. IF YOU REALLY THINK JEWELRY HAS TO BE REMOVED BECAUSE EVERYONE SHOULD BE EQUALLY YOKED, YOU ARE WRONG, BECAUSE ALL HUMAN BEINGS BEFORE GOD,BUT ALL ARE NOT EQUAL, FOR THAT IS WHY GOD ALLOWS SOME TO BE PRINCE AND KINGS, AND OTHERS TO BE SERVANTS. SO DON'T LIE TO YOURSELF, BROTHER. JUST REALIZED THAT THW WEARING OF THE JEWELLERY IS TO GIVE HONOR TO PEOPLE OF GOD,CONTRARY TOWHAT ELLEN WHITE TEACH.

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    3. So it's a question of equality then? So others won't feel left out. Then how come the brethren at my Adventist church are okay driving fancy cars while I take the bus? Why don't we just all take the bus to be equal?
      Nonsense! Focusing on the trivialities like wearing jewelry is gonna send ppl to hell.

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  8. I am a SDA and also question the wearing of jewelry, I have never understood the importance the church places on this, why should I be found to be less of a Christian because I wear jewelry than the lady sitting next to me that wears a pair of shoes that cost more than my entire outfit including my jewelry. I am not judging her, I am simply saying that the earrings a lady puts on is no different than the scarf, hair barrette or any other article each woman chooses to wear. We all dress to look our best, the pastor and elders choose a shirt, tie and suit they feel looks best on them. So modest jewelry is simply something we put on to look nice. It's not worshipping it and not a sinful act. Members in the church can own a car that cost more than my home, or a home that makes mine look like a shack. These members seem to be highly respected in the church, yet a woman that wears jewelry is just not quite a true Christian? People question why we are not able to give it up, they question where our hearts really are.

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  9. Well I am also a Proud Seventh Day Adventist. And I have heard and read many former SDA's or even SDA's say they don't see why they can't wear rings or any jewelry. Well I have a question. If it is something that God wants us to do, don't you think He has the power the makes be born with holes in our ears so we could wear ear rings? Another question. Why when the people of Israel had to go before God they had to take all their jewelry away to come in the presence of the Lord? Another thing. Are you wearing these jewelry to glorify God or yourself? And yes God says we are His jewelries. This is not give us green light that hey God is okay with jewelry but He uses common things to ustyo make us understand what He is talking about. He refer to things we know and find beautiful on earth to give us an idea of more or less what He is referring to. And regarding Ellen G White she is an inspired writer just as the bible writers. And yes at some point when you read her materials you might find that she contradicts herself, but she is not. Regarding some topics she might give different advice based on the person's need. However regarding some topics including jewelry she has one way of explaining what God inspired her to say. If you want to put Ellen G. White a side is fine but, God is very clear about jewelry. If you read Revelation you will see the distinction He makes between the pure woman and the adulteress one.

    My advice stop focusing and these little insignificant things and start reading the bible for preparation for what is to come. Because the devil wants us to be focusing on these things and miss the big picture.

    May the Lord give you wisdom and understanding of His word. And be open for what God has to say to you. and all that is written in the Bible are guidelines given by GOD to protect and guide His people.

    May God bless you all.

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  10. Well I'd like to get to the very bottom things. Such as why do we wear clothes? We obviously know that when our first parents sinned, their eyes were opened and they saw themselves naked. Clothes are a mean for its to be covered and be presentable before God. Also, if we as sinners wouldn't be wearing clothes, we would lust in craze after one another. Now jewelry, as must of you may know, since you may be or have been, seventh day Adventists, is a big common issue amongst the church people. I myself am just a person searching for more light and truth and so far I have been led to the sda church. Some people say it's becausE of former tradition and beliefs in all that eg white stuff. Others think it's a perspective and some just believe that the church has nothing to do with their personal lives. I think that this subject is tearing your church apart for some people. Pagan traditions and customs involved piecing the flesh putting on ritual attire To sacrifice to their pagan gods such as the sun, moon, star, wolf , etc... these pagan traditions and custom are in a manner devilish and ungodly due to their cutting off the flesh and bleeding for the satisfaction of their gods. I know from a biblical sense that God who is full of love does not require us nor would he ever enjoy to watch his own creatures mistreating his holy temple of the holy spirit. The apostles Paul and Peter give us in scripture a little insight on the verse that was posted above. If I'm not mistaken, due to the context of the verse, the apostle is only warning is against the luxurious and overlooked theme of outward appearance. I think that he is telling us to focus more on Christ than ourselves. I also personally believe that God considers us his precious jewels because of our value to him. And as someone said here on one of the comments, Jesus did use modern objects and vocabulary for people to grasp what he was saying in a manner that they could understand what the spiritual lesson would be. We are God's precious jewels because we are made in his image and he cares for our well being which is why he loves us so much and why we are so valuable to him. I do think Ellen white was a true prophet and as someone that's only looking for more and more light, I think that what she says is inspired and it all corresponds in sequence with the scriptures. If course she contradicts herself every now and then for it is her personal opinion and advice to different people on a different topic. As children of God I think we should show modesty and humility when we are witnessing to others the word if God. The bible does point out several times of characters who are issued as price, some reward regarding jewelry. The ring, chain, signet and clothes given to Joseph were a symbol of royalty and status, but would Joseph wear these things in the presence of God? Note that when his father came back to see him, Joseph showed humility as he fell before him and wept for a long time on his father's neck. In Egyptian custom it was not very appreciated for a royalty to be present with a shepherd or poor strangers. Though the bible may not have quoted this, I'm sure Joseph would have removed his fine attire in the very presence of his item father.

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  11. If he did it to his father would he had not done so with God? Also with Daniel, since God had given him such profound wisdom and had bless him in a strange and ungodly land, he became ruler of the great province and several times promoted gifts of gratitude towards him. The gold chain and purple clothes symbolized him as a royalty, but the bible never mentioned him wearing it after that. It was merely presents to him as a gift of gratitude. Also, Hebrew customs required one to wear a tzillit or prayer shall in the presence of God. Would Daniel, a man with deep committing and profound love for God, proud himself by wearing these articles of high status, when he,a God fearing man, recognized God as the highest and almighty being? I honestly don't think so. There are twists and turns here and there in the bible, but one must not take that one verse by itself, you must support it with a chain of other evidence embedded in the scriptures and in mere conscience and logic. Another thing, the high priests in the old testament, wore these stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel whom the Lord had chosen. The stones themselves were to represent God s chosen people before him through the atoning priest, but it was never worn by him always only for that special occasion and though it may sound contradicting with what I said earlier about humility in the presence of God, this is the priest whom we are talking about. The one chosen to represent the lamb Jesus. The role he played wearing the stones and the other apparel symbolized the sins of the people being transferred to him and carrying them before God to be atoned for. These precious stones were not jewelry hence the priest did not wear them as his personal attire, rather that he wore them for a purpose God had set forth. Also, the description of the heavenly temple and structure is to symbolize for us how much God has in store for us and the radiant beauty of the heavenly kingdom. I don't consider it as jewelry since it is showing the glory and majesty of God and it does not mean that God accepts or favors jewelry. On the other hand the bible doesn't directly say that God prohibits it. I think that the fact that it doesn't say much on either side, has something to tell us about God and that he wants us to focus more on him than on wanting to be at hand with the modern fashion. I also think that Mrs.white s quote prescribed above is accurate. I don't think we should be spending so much of the money God has provided for us on clothes and luxurious it expensive personal attire. The same goes for either jewelry or clothes. Personally, I believe that we should all come at peace with these topics by deeply discussing them, but concentrate on the work of spreading God s word more. Anyway, who am I to judge or say what is right for everyone. Let's all pray the right way, with surrender to God that he may show us the way should go. When you pray, don't have a bias prayer of your own with God, rather ask God what he thinks about it. Thank you.

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  12. Another thing, didn't Jesus say to follow him and be like him? If so, I don't think I should wear jewelry since the bible doesn't say if he did our not but we know by his character and actions that he must likely didn't. Done people think that there was no jewelry for men during the time, but indeed there was. Thank you anyway for listening and sorry if my messages were a little long.

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  13. I don't see any necessity for wearing jewelry. Clothes yes, but jewelry has no point but bringing glory to oneself and not God. I think that people also misinterpret what Ellen white is really trying to say.

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    1. but it's a choice. God has always given us free will so why do churches think it's ok to impose things on us.

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  14. Yes, very true. The bible also says that we should not pierce or make any cuttings in the flesh in Leviticus.

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    1. Actually, if you were to read it in context and look at the whole verse, the end of it says, " for the dead". That extra piece matters.

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  15. Below are bible verses about wearing jewelry, it's on you if you obey or disobey since God is the judge at the end of the day. By the way Patricia Allen, we church folk must also be careful of what bible we use, did you know the NIV bible omits over 65,000 words of the KJV? and the word God doesn't appear in it also. The publisher of the NIV bible is actually a homosexual. Here's the link: www.jesus-is-savior.com/Bible/NIV/why.htm

    King James Version 1 Timothy 2:9 - In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

    1 Peter 3:3,4 - Whose adorning let it not be that outward [adorning] of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
    But [let it be] the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible,, [even the ornament] of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

    Clearly the NIV version says differently to cause confusion, but that's the problem in today's churches. Too many people want something easy to understand but don't take the time to really decipher the word of God by asking in prayer for knowledge and understanding of his word. Perfect example, the NIV bible was made to appeal to different religions so there we have a problem church, no one wants truth. Too many people want everything sugarcoated, when was the last time God ever sugarcoated anything? He never has, goodluck trying to find that....Regardless, no one wants to obey God how he or she is supposed to, so people are gonna do whatever the ham and cheese they want. Appealing to the flesh rather than trying to kill the flesh spiritually by eating the word, praying and fasting. Not willing to walk the walk, just wanna walk sometimes. I shake my head in disbelief sometimes in the things i see and read. Gonna finish with the quotes below:

    Deuteronomy 22:5 - The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment: for all that do so [are] abomination unto the LORD thy God.

    ^^ Does this really need an explanation??

    Leviticus 19:28 - Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I [am] the LORD.

    ^^ Basically, don't mark your body with tattoos or pierce it with anything. you can't miss that. Again, this your choice if you decide to follow the word of God or the flesh instead.

    Have a blessed day, knowledge is power!

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  16. What is the difference between someone who wears the Jewelries on the neck or ears and someone who wears clothes and shoes designed with them. Almost every woman in my church (s.d.a) wear such clothes and rings in the finger but earings not. I did't leave sda because of such an issue, i left after i found out that some of their beliefs are wrong. e.gTrinity, the saved going to heaven, God's Holy days done away with(lev. 23), not talking about the changed calender etc. Sda is far from bein the reminant church.






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    1. You left because you confused yourself. You let the devil play with your mind. Keep praying.

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  17. The Seventh Day Adventist Beliefs, doctrines and teachings are all 100% Bible based, Ellen G. White was a woman used by God, she is a second source of information the bible is always first. The problem with people is that they go to church looking at other people. The church is a hospital, people go their because we are all dealing or working through something. I go to church because of God, but what I was thought as a child and what i now am teaching my children is 100% correct. I don't wear jewelry, wedding ring, go to movies, eat meat, pork, tattoos, clubs, parties, alcohol. Not because my pastor or the church tells me not to do it, it is my choice and the bible states it so. King James Bible from Genesis to Revelation, people use and choose what they want to fit their needs. If you or anyone else wants to wear jewelry, eat pork, drink, etc etc etc... Then do it God has given you the choice to do what ever you want to do. But talking about or being critical of the Seventh Day Adventist church as a whole is WRONG, and you become the JUDGE. And from what the bible states only GOD can judge. I educate my children once they are 18 they will make their own choices period I can only pray they make the right choices. God is not an unjust, evil God and the reason we have the bible is to use it as a guide. If your not happy being a Seventh Day Adventist it's okay choose another church, place, religion etc. But don't allow the devil to use you or your tongue to burn the Seventh Day Adventist Church. You have a Blessed Day, and I will pray for you. Your Sister in Christ

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    1. Your works are filthy rags. You are not better than a whore down in a corner. Pause and ponder your ridiculous self righteousness. You think you are good? Sinless? You need prayer yourself! Your religious spirit in on you not the Holy Spirit. Isaiah 64:6.

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  18. Jewelry - How Much Is Too Much?
    by Doug Batchelor
    I am intrigued by clever oxymorons. An oxymoron is a statement or pairing of two words that contradict each other, such as "pretty ugly." A few humorous, personal favorites are "military intelligence" and "rap music" (the rap I have heard does not even slightly resemble music). Some oxymorons are more serious, like "little sin," "innocent gossip," and "safe premarital sex."
    A few years back while wandering through a Christian bookstore, I came upon a glass display case with a sign above it that read "Christian Jewelry." I thought to myself, now there's another clever oxymoron-something like "Christian rock." The Bible clearly teaches that "Christian jewelry" is a conflict in terms.
    The Fruit, Not the Root!
    The power of the gospel begins on the inside, transforming the heart while unseen by human eyes. But then it will continue to flow and seep into every area of the life, producing obvious external changes. Just like a plant, the seed first comes to life below the earth. But if the root is healthy, the plant will soon become visible and bear fruit above ground. Jesus said, "By their fruits ye shall know them." Matthew 7:20.
    Notice that He did not say you will know them by their roots that grow underground. He said the fruit, not the root! Therefore we are commanded to be aware of the external evidence of our faith.
    When a person accepts Christ as Lord, the Holy Spirit begins impressing that individual to make dramatic adjustments. There will often be changes in what appears on the table during dinner and on the TV after supper. (For some people, it would be better if the TV disappeared altogether.) From the bookshelf to the closet, Jesus will penetrate the whole life.
    Even though the Scriptures plainly address the subject of a Christian's external appearance and adornment, many churches are strangely silent on this subject. No doubt someone is thinking, "With all the problems in the church, why would you want to focus on something so insignificant and widely accepted?" Well, friends, remember that Jesus said, "For that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God." Luke 16:15.
    I believe there are unseen and subtle dangers connected with the wearing of jewelry. So if you are a converted Christian who seeks to know how to better reflect the Lord in these last days, please keep your mind open as we reason together from the Scriptures.
    God's Ambassadors
    We, the Church, are the hands and feet, the eyes and mouth, and yes, even the ears of Jesus in the world today. We are the Body of Christ. Our Lord said, "As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you." John 20:21.
    We have been sent into the world to demonstrate who Jesus is and what He is like. Through the Holy Spirit we become His representatives-to reflect His image in everything from the way we talk and work to the way we eat and dress. In 2 Corinthians 3:18, the Scripture says that "we all ... are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord."
    A few years ago, scandals surrounded several popular TV evangelists in North America. Those opposed to Christianity rejoiced, mocking the immorality and hypocrisy exhibited in the lives of these men and their wives who professed to speak for Jesus. During this tragic time, the secular media often made reference to their flamboyant.

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    dress and gaudy jewelry as proof that these professed Christians were not genuine. The TV preachers even inspired one famous songwriter to write a popular ballad entitled "Would Jesus Wear a Rolex?" I'm sure angels wept as Christian leaders, due to their immodest appearance, became a deserving target for the lost. It is a sad day indeed when Christians win the medal for opulent external adornment!
    Wearing Our Wealth
    Let's take a look at the origin of jewelry. God made all the gold, silver, and beautiful precious jewels in the world, and He intended for them to have a practical use. Since even small amounts of these minerals are so rare and valuable, long ago they began to be used as money.
    Over time, people began wearing their money in order to impress others with their wealth. When shoppers went to the market to buy an expensive item, they would simply pull off one of their rings or bracelets to pay.
    After Rebecca had watered the camels for Abraham's servant, the Bible says that he paid her in this way. "And it came to pass, as the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden earring of half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten shekels weight of gold." Genesis 24:22.
    When the children of Israel brought an offering to the Lord to build the tabernacle, they used the jewels they had received from the Egyptians. It was their money. "And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing hearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold: and every man that offered offered an offering of gold unto the Lord." Exodus 35:22.
    There is obviously nothing wrong with having money. But the question is, does God want Christians to wear their money for all to see? "The love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith." 1 Timothy 6:10.
    Remember, just because we see something done in the Bible does not mean that God approved of it or condoned it. The Scriptures simply record a faithful history of God's people-including all their failures. Jesus did not come to lower the standard for Christians. He came to raise it!
    Why Be a Stumbling Block?
    One reason I do not drink any alcohol is because one person in seven who drinks later becomes an alcoholic. Even though I might be able to drink moderately, I do not want my bad example to cause another person's downfall-especially for something so unnecessary as intoxicating beverages.
    The same principle holds true for jewelry. We have all seen people who cover themselves with gold and precious jewels-gem-aholics, if you will. Most people who wear lots of jewelry do not sense their personal worth. They hope to feel more valuable by covering themselves with expensive articles. Others believe they are unattractive and hope to increase their perceived beauty by adorning themselves with beautiful gems. They can't control themselves. They think that if one is good, then 10 would be better. (Just for the record, I have never heard a man say: "Isn't she beautiful? Just look at her jewelry!") I'm sure everyone would agree that there is a point when enough is enough!
    Well, what is that point? If it's okay for women to wear earrings, then who is to say it's wrong for men? If one ring or earring is acceptable, then why not three or four? If the laymen can wear it, why not the clergy? If a ring in the ear is all right, then what's wrong with a bone in the nose?

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    And Jesus Himself commanded: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16. God's Word tells us to let our inner light (not our external jewels) shine that others might see our works (not our wealth) and glorify God (not ourselves).
    Poor "Investments"
    Christians are to be faithful stewards of the means God entrusts to their care. Some display gems on their bodies that, if sold, could build an entire church in the mission field. Our money should be spent to spread the gospel in a practical, effective way (see Matthew 6:19-21).
    No doubt you will find glaring examples among church members (and in churches) where money has been squandered on some needless extravagance. I confess I too have been guilty of this. But one inconsistency never justifies another. God's money should not be spent for parading diamonds and gold or even cheap costume jewelry. All the jewelry will melt when Jesus comes, and I would prefer not to be wearing any when that happens! Besides, in heaven the gold will be used for pavement and the diamonds for walls.
    James 5:3 declares the folly of such "investments:" "Your gold and silver is cankered [corroded]; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days." The only valuables going to heaven will be transformed people.
    Little Idols
    When I present the Bible truth regarding jewelry, I rarely hear complaints from those who are newly converted. But the folks who have been in the church for years will often pout and argue, "Doug, it is such a little thing!" My response is, "If it is such a little thing, then why is it so hard for you to take it off?" A little gold or silver can become a big idol.
    Perhaps the most striking demonstration of this fact was the experience of the Israelites with the golden calf. The Bible records: "And Aaron said unto them, Break off the golden earrings, which are in the ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them unto me. And all the people brake off the golden earrings which were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron. And he received them at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made it a molten calf: and they said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt." Exodus 32:2-4.
    When the children of Israel passed the plate, they had enough jewelry to make a small calf. I fear if we were to pass the plate today in the churches of those who profess to follow God's Word, we would have enough jewelry to make a whole golden buffalo!
    After the golden calf experience, God commanded the people to remove their jewelry lest they be consumed. "For the Lord had said unto Moses, Say unto the children of Israel, Ye are a stiff-necked people: I will come up into the midst of thee in a moment, and consume thee: therefore now put off thy ornaments from thee, that I may know what to do unto thee. And the children of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments by the mount Horeb." Exodus 33:5, 6.
    Notice the similar warning God gives to His people living in the last days: "In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; To go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the rugged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth." Isaiah 2:20, 21.

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    Dressing for the Occasion
    There was a time when God winked at the wearing of jewelry and other evils such as slavery and polygamy. It was not because He approved of these practices, but because His people had bigger problems to deal with at that point in time.
    Acts 17:30, 31 tells us: "And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent." Why? "Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness."
    We are living in the days just before the coming of Jesus-a time in which the church is being judged. "For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God." 1 Peter 4:17.
    As an illustration of the judgment process, God gave to His people the Day of Atonement. It fell on the tenth day of the seventh month in the Jewish year and was a solemn day on which the Lord would sanctify and judge the children of Israel. In preparation, the people conducted a thorough personal examination. They were filled with an attitude of confession, repentance, and humility. "For it is the Day of Atonement, to make atonement for you before the Lord your God. For any person who is not afflicted in soul on that same day shall be cut off from his people." Leviticus 23:28, 29, NKJV.
    Whenever the people of God were preparing to meet with their Maker, they were to clean and change their clothes and to separate themselves from all pagan influences. Here is one example from Genesis 35:1-4: "And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother. Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange [foreign] gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments: And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went. And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand, and all their earrings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which was by Shechem."
    We can learn two very important lessons from this story. First, notice that the foreign gods and jewelry were classified and buried together. Pagan worship and jewelry have always enjoyed a close association. And in order for Jacob and his household to commune with God, they had to get rid of all such influences. Thus Jacob ordered not a temporary removal of these articles, but a permanent burial.
    Secondly, the word Bethel means "House of God." We are now living in the time of judgment and are preparing to meet with the Almighty. Now is not the time to adorn our mortal exteriors. If we look like the world when Jesus comes, there is a good chance we will share its fate! "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you." 2 Corinthians 6:17.
    We Are God's Temple
    The most beautiful building of antiquity was the temple of God built by King Solomon. Its exterior was covered with precious, pure white marble stones. The gold was on the inside of the temple. The Bible says that this is a good pattern for living temples, as well. "Your beauty should reside, not in outward adornment-the braiding of the hair, or jewellery, or dress-but in the inmost centre of your being, with its imperishable ornament, a gentle, quiet spirit, which is of high value in the sight of God." 1 Peter 3:3, 4, NEB. Like Solomon's temple of old, our gold should be on the inside!

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    Friend, your body was made by God in His image. To try to improve human appearance by poking holes in the ears or nose from which to dangle lifeless minerals would be like trying to improve on the perfect beauty of Solomon's temple by releasing a street gang in the marble courtyard and telling them to express themselves with spray paint. "And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God." 2 Corinthians 6:16.
    I believe angels turn away their faces and weep when professed Christians pierce, scar, chain, mutilate, and tattoo their bodies as a sacrifice to the gods of fad and fashion. Leviticus 21:5, 6 plainly says: "They shall not make ... any cuttings in their flesh. They shall be holy unto their God." And if God says we should not cut our bodies, what makes us think that piercing the ears is somehow permissible?
    "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are." 1 Corinthians 3:16, 17. In essence, you should not poke holes in priceless marble. Our bodies are to be holy-not full of holes.
    First Appearances Do Count!
    Two symbolic women appear in Revelation chapters 12 and 17. They represent the two great religious powers that are in conflict throughout church history. Although neither of them ever speaks, we know that one is true and one is false. How? The primary way the Bible identifies who they are is by what they are wearing.
    Revelation 12:1 says, "And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars." The first woman, who represents God's church, is wearing natural light. God made the sun, moon, and stars, and His church is clothed with the light that He made.
    By contrast the second woman, who represents an apostate church, is bedecked with jewelry and fine apparel. Her beauty is external and artificial. Revelation 17:4 says, "The woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication."
    Obviously these things are associated with an appearance of evil, and we are commanded to "Abstain from all appearance of evil." 1 Thessalonians 5:22.
    Christ Is Our Example
    At this point someone may be wondering, "What about a wedding ring?"
    Very simply, support for the wedding ring cannot be found anywhere in the Bible. It is strictly a tradition that springs from paganism and has since been embraced and "baptized" by many churches. "And he [Jesus] said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition." Mark 7:9.
    I've also been asked many times if wearing a cross would be okay. Well, Jesus never asked us to wear the cross. He asks us to bear the cross. Taking up our cross and following Jesus is much more challenging than wearing a bumper sticker, tee shirt, or little golden cross as frivolous advertising. Jesus said that bearing the cross means a Christian will "deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." Luke 9:23.

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    The example of Jesus in the Scriptures is consistently one of practical simplicity and modesty. When He was crucified, the Roman soldiers divided his garments among themselves. Notice that they did not cast lots for His jewelry. His most valuable piece of clothing was a modest, seamless tunic (John 19:23, 24).
    Here is a message that bears repeating. When we love Jesus, we will want to follow His example. "He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked." 1 John 2:6, NKJV.
    Change of Ownership
    In the small town where I used to live, there was a house that was well known for its dilapidated appearance. Broken down trucks, garbage, and miscellaneous junk cluttered the whole yard. The peeling paint, broken windows, and hungry yard dogs were an embarrassment to the entire community. Then one day, after taking an extended trip, I drove back through town and was stunned by the dramatic change that had come over this infamous structure. The old, peeling paint had been stripped off, and a beautiful natural stain now covered the wood. Clean, new windows had replaced the broken ones, and all the junk and old vehicles were gone! The yard was clean and covered with new grass. I didn't even have to ask what had caused the change. Instantly I knew that the house had a new owner.
    All of us have at one time or another resembled that old, broken-down house. Sin reigned in our hearts, leaving us broken, filthy, and cluttered. But whenever a person allows Jesus to take over the heart, a cleansing process begins immediately. Jesus will remove those things that distract from the Christian's inner beauty, and people will notice the improvement!
    Jesus laid aside His heavenly throne and crown when He came to our world to save us. Then He surrendered His earthly garments when He died on the cross for our sins. Is He asking too much for us to lay aside our lifeless baubles and beads that we might better reflect His simple purity in this lost world?
    As we have seen in this study, there are many good reasons for Christians to abstain from wearing jewelry. But if I had to pick two of the best, it would be these-love for God, and love for our neighbors.
    "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." Romans 12:1, 2.



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  25. Can we not just believe in God. I was bought in a SDA household. I was given rules which I never kept. Even thought I was afraid I still broke the rules. I have never been baptised therefore I am not speaking has a member. I can see that there is a long list of don't,s I was told by my mum that I would burn in a very hot fire, this obviously wasn't enough to deter me. My mum asked don't I want to live forever, I pondered this question and the answer was no I don't. Therefore can I not just love and believe in God, without all the rules!

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    1. Hi Cam,

      You asked, "Can I not just love and believe in God without all the rules?"

      YES you can! That is exactly how we are saved. The Bible plainly tells to repent of our sins and believe in the gospel. Our focus should be on loving God and others - not on trying to earn our righteousness by keeping laws we can't perfectly keep.

      Mark 1:15 ESV
      [15] and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."

      What is the gospel?

      1 Corinthians 15:1-4 ESV
      [1] Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, [2] and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you-unless you believed in vain. [3] For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, [4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures,

      When we believe in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ as our substitute and sin bearer, we are accounted righteous by faith because of what He has ALREADY DONE FOR US! That is the Good News!

      Following is a YouTube link entitled Stay Free. It is AWESOME and based on your concerns, I believe it will be a blessing to you.

      The first 13 may seem a bit redundant or simplistic but the author is building a solid foundation for some Good News so please be patient. They are very short as you will discover.

      https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1C889ED74C82E57C

      If you care to, let me know what you think. May God bless you as you are affirmed in your relationship with God.

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  26. Question for you Patricia Allen: Didn't you create this blog in order to be saved? Don't you post comments on this blog and reply to people's questions in an effort to earn salvation? Do you pray every day? Do you read the Bible? Why are you working so hard to merit what Jesus has already done for you?

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    1. Jesus has already done ALL the WORKS needed for our salvation and I gladly accept His works for us by faith.

      So, No, this blog has absolutely nothing to do with works FOR salvation.

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    2. Patricia, I really appreciate this blog. I have a relative who is suddenly steeped in SDA and I am concerned as he told me that I am going to hell for worshiping
      on Sunday and not Saturday. When last I checked going to church was to fellowship with the saints and to keep our witness alive. I am the church!

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  27. As a seventh-day Adventist, it saddens me when these discussions come up. We are living in the great anti-typical day of atonement. Because of this, God asks something more of His people today. Please study what God required of ancient Israel in the typical day of atonement. Then you will understand the reason that seventh-day Adventists limit their diet, what they wear, and how they adorn their bodies. So many forget, we are in God's great judgment time. Every part of our lives should reflect that. God bless each of us as we seek to do His will because we love Him.

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  28. Patricia, I love your article. I completely agree with you that God does not condemn people for wearing jewelry. Jewelry making is an art form and a talent. People who create jewelry are artists, and the income they earn from their art puts food on the table and pays for the roofs over their hands. That same money contributes to our economy. I have always felt that Seventh Day Adventist Christians were wrong about condemning jewelry, and thank you for providing scriptural proof that God gives us all the personal choice to wear it or not wear it. God doesn't put labels on us, so why should we put labels on others based upon how they dress? I feel God delights when we take care of ourselves whether we wear jewelry or not.

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  29. In my previous comment, I meant to write roofs over their heads, not hands. :) Also, I find it strange that SDA Christians condemn wearing jewelry, but they have nothing against putting pictures on the walls of their homes and putting plants and flowers in their homes to beautify their surroundings. If it's okay to adorn our homes, why isn't it okay to adorn our bodies with whatever jewels/accessories that we want? My mother was raised a Methodist, and my dad was raised in the SDA church, but his parents were Sunday Christians for decades before they converted to SDA close to when he was born. As a result, the majority of my family on both my mother & father's sides (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) are Sunday going Christians. I never felt comfortable with many of the SDA beliefs with regards to judging people over what they wear and eat. I think we should focus on being Christians and understand that God gave us all different goals and plans. In Barbados where my parents are from, there are many different Christian denominations represented there, and the Kingdom of Heaven will be the same way; there will be Christians of every denomination in heaven. We need to learn to get along now and stop judging each other on petty things.

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  30. You're welcome, Patricia! Thanks for replying to me. :)

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  31. I currently attend church on Sundays and I have done so for several years. But I have noticed in recent years when I occasionally visit SDA churches here in Canada and in the United States, that times are changing. It's not unusual now to see several girls and women wearing jewelry and makeup in SDA churches. Years ago, that would not have been the case at all. There are SDA members who still shun people who wear jewelry, but there's an increase of SDA men and women who refuse to be discriminated against just because they don't give in to groupthink peer pressure. I think the SDA church will be forced to re-evaluate its stance on jewelry, Ellen G. White's teachings, and many other things. People are questioning things more, and I think that's a good thing. :)

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  32. Questioning is always good. I wish I had done it earlier. If the church doesn't reevaluate neutral items like jewelry they will continue to lose more and more members. It's like the church is trying to take the place of the Holy Spirit on things that people are free to make their own decisions on based on how they are convicted.

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  33. I completely agree with you, Patricia. There are many things that the SDA church should be honest with its members about. I posted a reply above to a poster who commented about Genesis 35:4. My Bible's footnote on that verse explains that earrings at that time had symbols of foreign gods on them and that's why Jacob asked his family to dispose of their earrings. The foreign gods were the issue, not the jewelry. However, I'm sure many SDA Christians interpret that text to mean that God doesn't want us to wear earrings when that isn't the case. God doesn't want us worshiping false gods or wearing their symbols on our bodies. Other than that, He gives us the choice about what we want to wear, jewelry included. The SDA church, in my opinion, should attempt to be more open about investigating scripture and understanding God's plan for our lives when he sent Jesus. Yeshua (Jesus) died to free us from the Law and bring us closer to God. Ellen G. White was NOT a prophet, as evidenced by many former Adventists who have discovered that and set up websites to educate people out of Adventism. I believe SDAs are Christians and I don't think the SDA church is a cult, but I think it's borderline to being one with regards to the way they do things. I own a worldwide dating site for Christians and there are SDA members on my site. While it's perfectly fine to only want to date someone who attends your church denomination, I hope that the SDA Christians on my site aren't automatically branding Sunday going Christians as devil worshipers and refusing to connect with them. The Kingdom of Heaven will include all of us Christians from every corner of the earth and every denomination. We who believe in Christ Jesus should unite in that belief instead of allowing Satan to cause division among us.

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  34. SDA folks who judge and criticize feminine pretty women who wax, who smell good, who wear beautiful jewelry given by their husbands, boyfriends, mothers even, women who wear make up and go to the salon to fix their hair.

    This is none of your freaking business! These are grown up adult women and nobody has any right to tell them what or to not wear. Do women come to the men asking them to show them their penis if it's circumcise or not? How long are the inches of their penises? Nope bc it's none of their business!

    Any church that requires a group of people to comply to clothes standards and police them is acting directly as a cult!
    Cults love to control people, their clothes, their choices of money expending etc.

    If you are a SDA men who love your plain Janes often fat with a hairy bush, mustaches, and men haircuts go ahead but don't be oogling the hot pretty Christian ladies who have nice fresh feet, smell fresh, who shave and possibly wax, who workout and are healthy. Don't put down beautiful women with long flows hair and juicy lip gloss. Don't get mad and called them whores bc you can't control your own friend down stairs. None of your business!

    What Ellen White said not said 200 yrs ago and who is extremely dead... doesn't matter she wrote for her times. She was a plain Jane, no beauty queen, wore dark colors thinking she was modest like that lol just like the nuns. Prophet or not it's not an issue. SDA need to follow Jesus anyways.

    SDA church has so much adulterious pastors who get with women who look like women. They get tempted bc their poor sweet plain jane wives dress like old ugly women with no sense of personal style as if having any is a sin??? Lol
    They let their gray hair grow, they don't invest in face wrinkle lotion looking like wrinkle rags before their right time, looking pale and sick getting fat...no wonder these men loose their sexual interest!!! These women starve to be touch and be passionately kiss all over no wonder some of them cheat with any men they can find around plumber, delivery guy, lonely SDA member. It's a sick and tragic gross reality in the SDA churches. These women repel their own men like the wife from the movie War Room with her funky smelly feet!

    Looking like a sick pale Puritan nun it's up to you SDA women. As a whole most of these women are pretty but look dowry, frumpy, plain Jane, nun like eeww.
    I hope they trim their bushes and shave. I hope their heels are soft and their feet not like ogres. As a whole I can't believe these intelligent women let an organization dictate their choices. Honey ain't God! Even Eve was full of sex appeal! Adam couldn't resist her! He ate more than an apple. You heard me. You are a grown woman not a child stop being ashamed of your bodies and beauty!

    If you are intelligent SDA get in touch with your beauty and re discover it. You don't need to feel ugly duckling to feel like you are sinless? Really wake up from the matrix of mind control over your own personal style
    https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=OiIxbBKvrp8 Learn from Steve Hassan
    Don't be deluded by cultish tactics. Stay SDA fight the cult culture stand up!

    Men who don't like ugly plane short hair Janes. Treat your woman to a spa package, but her nice jewelry or sexy perfume spice up her life cooking for her, rubbing her feet after you take her to get a pedicure. Compliment your woman let her wear nice dresses with nice shoes. Help her feel like a gorgeous adult women who is free to discover her feminenity. Your nights will become so great you will think of this message here and secretly thank me!

    By good standing SDA hot wife!
    Stand up planes Janes from your ugly duckling indoctrinations. I mean do you want to look like Ellen? No wonder you look drained down, depressed, with no spice in life full of doomed fears lol pathetic!

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    1. Um, okaaaay... You are not helping the cause here. You are talking about "sexiness". You are not celebrating femininity, you are projecting a rather extreme pornographic view on women. Men and women both need to take care of themselves to be healthy and well groomed.
      You are being crude and rude. You are being hostile and very judgmental, in effect, you are the opposite end of the spectrum. The utmost point here is that we have no right to judge each other, to be kind and respectful. The outside appearance should never detract from the person inside.
      I am a woman who loves God. I do my best to be a servant. I love taking care of myself, inside and out. I wear jewelry and get my hair and nails done. I enjoy spreading kindness and being devoted to my family.
      Name calling and shaming by saying someone is unattractive because of either being "adorned" or being "plain" is sad.
      I am a former SDA. What I learned from them was to study my Bible, which ultimately led me to find my own connection to the Holy Spirit. Knowing it is my job to focus on my own salvation and everyone has to find their path. How can we as sinners pass judgement on anyone While we all struggle with our own sins and inner ugliness. Religion is a tool for the ignorant. No living person can bring you salvation. That is a personal journey between an individual and God alone.

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  35. Today Jewelry becomes an idol not like before.

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  36. My mom takes this so far to the limit, no jewelry, no makeup, no fish or chicken or eggs & dairy. She detests the Catholic church and all Catholic people and is very pre-judging of anyone outside the SDA church. She loved her modest jewelry but won't even wear the 'Mother's' ring or birthstone ring she so proudly wore for decades yet she does dye her hair and gets it permed. The points is that just like all church's, I call hers or her beliefs to be more radical than it should be. Recently though she's shown signs of dementia and now is thinking her children are Catholics and won't talk to her older sister who (like my mom) was raised a Catholic. It's this weird way that some SDA church's seem to worship and radicalize Ellen White, or preach more Ellen White on Sabbath than Christ's words that makes me and the world think of the SDA church as a cult-it's the way the members act so overboard and better than others, that confuse us all. P.S. My family has been understanding, visiting her on OUR sabbath (Sundays) so we can take her to lunch etc, but we are seeing the results of this radical way of thinking, and in her dementia, it's looks like she may decide to shun us, her children soon, as she seems to only have a handfull of SDA friends and won't associate with anyone not in her church...Very sad that instead of love, her church is more obsessed with hating Catholics.

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  37. As I have read all these comments, one thing for sure who's happy now and enjoying to see us fall. . . The Devil itself, why? The devil loves debates, forgetting that what is much important is the words of GOD, but hey, all comments are regarding on jewelries. Keep on doing people. . . Let the devil rejoice in everybody's pride. This article said that SDAs banned not to wear jewelries so that they can give more money, maybe it was misinterpreted the use of more money to the church (SDAs).The more money the more work for God, but still there's no prefect church, and there's always a corruptions. Remember, the devil knows the time is very near and the devil will be more aggressive.

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  38. I looked st this for reasons as to why a friend of mine did not wear jewelry and went to church on Saturday. Wow...what a wake up call. I do not agree with everything said however I agree with a lot. I still don't understand why no jewelry or makeup or w whatevet, I'm not judging. Choose what you want, God allows you to do so. She is a lovely person. But like someone else said, she spends a lot of time not necessarily money shopping. I'm mean it's got to look perfect, got to be the best dressed, wears weaves and does so every week, long flowing curls et. I look at this like I look at jewelry...it's to enhance your appearance...yea, no? Again so super kind, good heart kind spirit, love her so much. I'm just confused where to get at because it seems so contradictory. I don't feel the need to talk about it because our general beliefs are the same and I don't want a heated conversation to mess up our relationship. Am I misunderstanding?

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  39. I, too, "can understand why you're not an Adventist" from this blog: You study and understand the Bible! I, too, left the "Church" when I began to understand their justification of their hospitals doing abortions (and no, I'm not going to discuss it. "Let God be found true.") Take the evil jewelry off and destroy human beings for profit..... Right. Stepping aside because of something so simple and obvious, the "forest" became more and more obvious. I am ashamed of the years of support, but more grateful for God's provision of forgiveness!

    The "Whore" that sells herself out (spiritually) will NEVER 'become' the chaste Bride of Christ - nor will he ever accept such.

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  40. Praise the Lord Michael. I, too, am so grateful for TRUTH! and God's mercy and grace. I was in for over five decades and never ever thought I would not be a Seventh-day Adventist. God obviously had a plan in motion and He led me to study for myself unaided by Ellen White. To say I was shocked at my findings is an understatement. The Spirit kept leading and I kept following which eventually led me out. All I can say is, God is good and the Holy Spirit can be trusted.

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  41. i'm not so sure the spirit you speak of is the holy One. the devil is cunning and knows the scriptures too.

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  42. i cant believe you just sat up here and wrote all that just to justify you wearing jewelry. sad! and the prediction is many will leave the true church\SDA and at the same time plenty will join taking the the place of those who left. so see'ya and i wouldnt wanna be'ya

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  43. A women on you tube has called women who wearing jewelry is a whores she keeps her comments to herself

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  45. Wonderful alticle! only that you miss understand what Ellen G white meant. we have to know that we are living in a time where jewelries are almost gods to many. Much time and attention is spent on it. At this point Ellen g white says, time is short to adorn the body with gold or silver or costly apparel

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