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she misinterpreted the words of the apostle, “The friendship of the
world is enmity with God, for whosoever will be a friend of the world
is the enemy of God”?
Mrs. D, a lady occupying a position in the institution, was visiting
at Sr. _____’s room one day, when the latter took out of her trunk a
gold necklace and chain, and said she wished to dispose of this jewelry
and put the proceeds into the Lord’s treasury. Said the other, “Why
do you sell it? I would wear it if it was mine.” “Why,” replied Sr.
_____, “when I received the truth, I was taught that all these things
must be laid aside. Surely they are contrary to the teachings of God’s
Word.” And she cited her hearer to the words of the apostles, Paul
and Peter, upon this point, “In like manner, also, that women adorn
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themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not
with broidered hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but, as becometh
women professing godliness, with good works.” “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.”
In answer, the lady displayed a gold ring on her finger, given her by
an unbeliever, and said she thought it no harm to wear such ornaments.
“We are not so particular,” said she, “as formerly. Our people have
been overscrupulous in their opinions upon the subject of dress. The
ladies of this institution wear gold watches and gold chains, and dress
like other people. It is not good policy to be singular in our dress; for
we cannot exert so much influence.”
We inquire, Is this in accordance with the teachings of Christ? Are
we to follow the Word of God, or the customs of the world? Our sister
decided that it was the safest to adhere to the Bible standard. Will Mrs.
D and others who pursue a similar course be pleased to meet the result
of their influence, in that day when every man shall receive according
to his works?
God’s Word is plain. Its teachings cannot be mistaken. Shall we
obey it, just as He has given it to us, or shall we seek to find how
far we can digress and yet be saved? Would that all connected with
our institutions would receive and follow the divine light, and thus be
enabled to transmit light to those who walk in darkness.