Teaching the Fundamental Principles of Dress
329
fessed followers of Christ have disregarded those precepts which en-
join self-denial and humility, which require modesty and simplicity
of conversation, deportment, and apparel. The result has ever been
the same—departure from the teachings of the gospel leads to the
adoption of the fashions, customs, and principles of the world. Vital
godliness gives place to a dead formalism. The presence and power
of God, withdrawn from those world-loving circles, are found with
a class of humble worshipers, who are willing to obey the teachings
of the Sacred Word. Through successive generations this course has
been pursued. One after another different denominations have risen
and yielding their simplicity, have lost, in a great measure, their early
power
God’s Word the Standard—All matters of dress should be
strictly guarded, following closely the Bible rule. Fashion has been
the goddess who has ruled the outside world, and she often insinu-
ates herself into the church. The church should make the Word of
God her standard, and parents should think intelligently upon this sub-
ject. When they see their children inclined to follow worldly fashions,
they should, like Abraham, resolutely command their households after
them. Instead of uniting with the world, connect them with God
[431]
[432]
42
Messages to Young People, 354
.
43
Testimonies For The Church 5:499
.