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Biblical to Modern Wear: What Would Jesus Don?

Fashion has long been a powerful form of self-expression. Clothing choices provide a unique way to wordlessly craft your outward identity, making a statement about who you are or what you stand for; revealing cultural heritage, personal values, or even your mood on any given day. 

Fashion trends have evolved dramatically over the centuries, from the flowing robes of ancient times to the sleek, to the fashion trends of today. Read along as we embark on a playful exploration that examines the cultural and symbolic significance of fashion in the Bible, and speculate what Jesus’ wardrobe might look like if He were here today. Would He opt for the simplicity of His time—a humble tunic and sandals—or perhaps opt for a minimalist, modern look? 

During the time of the Bible, clothing was practical, meeting the needs of daily life. Yet, much like today, garments were not purely functional, as different pieces often spoke to culture, status, purpose, or faith. 

Here's a look at some of the common clothing items worn during that period:

Tunics: Long, loose everyday attire worn by men and women, often made of wool or linen.
Cloaks: Outer garments used for warmth, draped over the shoulders, and essential for protection against the elements.
Sandals: Simple footwear made of leather or plant fibers, essential for walking in rugged terrain.
Head coverings: Worn for practical and religious reasons, they shielded from the sun and signified humility or reverence.

Now we will take a look at specific garments in the Bible that are imbued with value and meaning.

Each piece conveys a message rich with faith, identity, and favor:

The Tallit: A prayer shawl is worn by Jewish men during prayers, with its fringes (tzitzit) serving as a reminder of God’s commandments.
Sackcloth: Worn as a sign of repentance and mourning, sackcloth was used to express deep sorrow and humility before God.
Joseph’s Coat of Many Colors: Symbolizes Joseph’s favored status with his father, Jacob. However, it also sparked jealousy and resentment among his brothers, leading to his betrayal and eventual rise in Egypt. The coat represents themes of favoritism, envy, and how God can transform difficult circumstances for a greater purpose.
The Hem of a Prophet’s Garment: In the case of Elijah and Elisha, the hem of their garments often represented their prophetic authority and connection with God.
The High Priest’s Ephod: A richly adorned garment worn by the high priest, including the breastplate with twelve stones representing the tribes of Israel. It symbolized the priest’s role as a mediator between God and the people.
Esther’s Robe: Esther’s royal robes highlighted her transformation from an ordinary Jewish girl to a queen who used her position to save her people, illustrating themes of courage and providence.
The Robe of Jesus: This robe, worn by Jesus during His crucifixion, is a representation of unity and wholeness. Its seamless design was so valuable that Roman soldiers cast lots for it rather than tearing it apart. The robe reminds us of Christ’s unbroken nature and the spiritual significance of His sacrifice.

Imagining what Jesus' wardrobe would look like today is an amusing juxtaposition of ancient modesty with contemporary threads. Given His emphasis on humility and approachability, His wardrobe choices today would likely express these core principles while blending seamlessly with current styles.

Check out our best guesses at what l would fill His closet:

Minimalistic Basics: Simple and quality pieces like plain T-shirts and well-fitting jeans.
Reasoning: Speaks to His message of modesty and rejection of material excess. 

Comfortable Casuals: Comfortable yet stylish options like button-down shirts and chinos.
Reasoning: Embraces a laid-back and relatable demeanor that emphasizes His approachability. 

Eco-Friendly: Sustainable ethically produced garments.
Reasoning: Aligns with teachings on stewardship while expressing compassion and respect for all creation. 

Classic Elegance: Timeless pieces such as a tailored blazer or a simple dress shirt.
Reasoning: Respectfully honors inner virtue and grace without being ostentatious. 

Contemporary Traditionals: Adaptations of ancient robes with modern cuts and fabrics.
Reasoning: An honor to His earthly heritage. 

Demographically Inspired: Clothing that incorporates diverse cultural elements.
Reasoning: Communicates the inclusive universal application of His teachings. 

Ergonomic Footwear: Practical and humble sneakers.
Reasoning: For walking, connecting with, and serving others. 

Thoughtful Accessories: Scarves inspired by the tallit, and a necklace with a simple cross pendant.
Reasoning: Incorporating elements of His spiritual heritage while subtly acknowledging His spiritual eminence. 

While clothing can certainly be used to express ourselves, in the end, it’s not the clothes we wear but the heart behind them that matters most to God. As we imagine a hypothetical wardrobe for Jesus in today’s world, it is clear that whether He were to wear minimalist attire, or updated versions of robes from His time on earth, the essence of His teachings—humility, compassion, and connection—would shine through. Fashion may change, but the call to live with love and integrity remains forever timeless.

-Torrance Community Church of Christ

The Myth of Resolute Faith

With ample passages throughout the Bible referencing the significance of remaining steadfast in faith, there is no question about the absolute magnitude of this call. Irrefutably, having a solid foundation of faith 100% of the time would be ideal, but that is not reality. Life is full of surprises, and being humans, even the most faithful can fall victim to the emotions that arise from unpleasant and confusing situations; potentially causing our faith to falter temporarily. And that is okay. 

Faith is a Process 

We should always strive to nurture our faith and engage in daily practices that sustain faith and help it grow. However, holding yourself to the high standard of embodying unerring faithfulness is—ironically—a failsafe way to ensure failure in addition to many other unfavorable feelings. Faith, by its very nature, is marked by growth, setbacks, and moments of doubt. Expecting perfection can lead to frustration, guilt, and a sense of inadequacy when we inevitably falter. Instead, we must recognize that faith matures through trials, patience, and grace, allowing room for imperfection while trusting in God’s immovable presence and guidance throughout the process.

Biblical Accounts of Skepticism, Reservation, and Indecision 

The Bible is filled with stories of remarkable individuals whose faith in God shaped their lives and the lives of those around them. Even those closest to God, who witnessed His miracles and received His promises, struggled with doubt, fear, and moments of weakness.

Abraham: Abraham's struggle with faith is evident in two key moments where he doubted God's promises. The first occurs when he and his wife Sarah enter Egypt. Fearing for his life, Abraham asks Sarah to lie and say she is his sister, rather than his wife, to protect him from being killed by the Egyptians (Genesis 12:11-13), demonstrating a lack of trust in God's protection. The second instance is when Abraham agrees to Sarah's plan for him to have a child with her servant, Hagar, because they doubt that God will fulfill His promise of giving them a child in their old age (Genesis 16:1-2). 
Sarah: When she overhears the Lord's promise that she will have a child in her old age, Sarah laughs to herself, reflecting her disbelief given her advanced years and the improbability of bearing a child. When confronted by the Lord about her laughter, Sarah denies it out of fear, but the Lord affirms that nothing is too difficult for Him (Genesis 18:12-15). 
Gideon: When God first calls Gideon to deliver Israel from the Midianites, Gideon questions whether God is truly there. Despite being chosen by God, Gideon is deeply skeptical and asks for multiple signs to confirm God’s presence and promise. He first requests that a fleece be wet with dew while the ground remains dry (Judges 6:36-37), and then reverses the sign the following night, asking for the fleece to be dry while the ground is wet (Judges 6:39-40). Gideon's doubt and needed confirmation are commonly seen within the human experience of needing tangible signs to bolster faith.
Moses: Moses' struggles with faith are evident in several key moments in his journey. When God first calls him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses expresses doubt about his own abilities, questioning, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" (Exodus 3:11). His hesitation continues in Exodus 4:10-13, where he protests that he is not eloquent and pleads with God to send someone else. This reluctance exposes a lack of confidence in himself and God's plan. Later, in Numbers 20:10-12, Moses strikes a rock twice to bring forth water for the Israelites instead of speaking to it as God commanded. This act of doubt and frustration led God to tell Moses that because he did not trust Him fully, he would not lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. 
David: David's struggles with faith and morality are evident in several pivotal moments in his life. One significant instance is found in 2 Samuel 11:2-4, where David, succumbing to temptation, commits adultery with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah. Disregarding God’s commandments, this moment of weakness and self-indulgence subsequently leads to a series of sinful acts, including the eventual murder of Uriah. In Psalm 13:1-2, we find David openly expressing doubt and feelings of distance and abandonment when he cries out to God in despair, "How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?"
Noah: Noah's struggle with faith is subtly implied after the flood when he plants a vineyard, drinks the wine, and becomes drunk, lying uncovered in his tent (Genesis 9:20-21). While the Bible doesn’t explicitly state that Noah lost faith, his actions can be seen as a moment of weakness or moral lapse following the immense responsibility and stress of building the ark, surviving the flood, and beginning humanity anew. 
Samson: Samson's struggle with faith is most evident in his relationship with Delilah, as described in Judges 16:15-17. Despite being set apart as a Nazirite dedicated to God from birth, Samson allows himself to be worn down by Delilah's persistent questioning about the source of his strength. Prioritizing his relationship over his commitment to God, eventually, Samson reveals the secret of his strength—his uncut hair, a symbol of his covenant with God. 
Elijah: Elijah’s struggle with faith is vividly depicted after his triumph over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. Despite this great victory, when Queen Jezebel threatens his life, Elijah becomes overwhelmed with fear and despair. He flees into the wilderness and, in his distress, prays to God to take his life, saying, "I have had enough, Lord" (1 Kings 19:4). Elijah feels alone and defeated, Defeated and convinced that his efforts have been in vain, Elijah questions his purpose; failing to trust in God’s plan. In this moment of deep vulnerability, Elijah questions his purpose and struggles to trust in God's plan. However, reassuringly, God gently responds, providing Elijah with food, rest, and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Despite their close relationships with God, these figures struggled with uncertainty, fear, or impatience at various points in their lives; revealing that nobody is immune to lapses of faith. Notably, each of these figures also experienced restoration and continued to play fundamental roles in God's plan. 

The Bottom Line

The good news is that God remains faithful to us, especially during periods when we lack faith. Periods of uncertainty do not disqualify us from God’s love or His plan. Instead, they offer opportunities for us to rely more deeply on Him and experience His grace, rearranging our doubt into strengthened faith over time. Faith is not about perfection, but persistence. 

- Torrance Community Church of Christ

Sacred Scams: Part Two

Faith has inspired some of humanity's most meaningful realizations—but as we witnessed last week, it has also given rise to some of the most audacious deceptions. This week we will unravel more stories that have engrossed and misled the masses and get a greater glimpse into the intersection of faith, power, and the imagination. 

Fables and Fakes

The following examples highlight tales of trickery that have managed to dazzle, arouse controversies, and, in some cases, even influence the course of religious thought.

The Letter of Benen 
Written in the 5th century, the Letter of Benen was a letter written by Benen, better known as Saint Benignus, who was the successor of Saint Patrick as the Bishop of Armagh. Within the lines, Benen provided a first-hand dramatized account of Saint Patrick’s missionary work in Ireland, detailing his teachings, miracles, supernatural events, and interactions with the local pagan chieftains.

Adding to its appeal and value, the letter was initially presented as an ancient and newly discovered artifact. Excitement surged with the discovery of the letter, as it appeared to offer fresh insights about Saint Patrick and early Christianity in Ireland. Nevertheless, experts were skeptical of the letter's validity. Examination of the letter exposed blatant linguistic inconsistencies, confirming their suspicions that the letter was a forgery. 

The Gospel of Barnabas

^{"The Gospel of Barnabas - Frontispiece - Facsimile of Pages 1 and 734 of the Vienna Manuscript" is in the public domain. Available at Wikimedia Commons.}

The Gospel of Barnabas is a controversial and widely discredited text that has been the subject of much debate and speculation since its discovery. Claiming to be a missing gospel written by Paul’s companion, Barnabas, the written work debuts a version of teachings that glaringly deviates from traditional Christian teachings. 

The gospel appeared to draw heavily on Islamic teachings and themes, claiming that Jesus was not the Son of God, but merely a prophet, and that he foretold the coming of Muhammad-the true Messiah. It further states that Christ taught a strict adherence to the Law of Moses, and rejects the idea of Jesus' crucifixion, stating that Judas Iscariot was crucified in Jesus' place after being miraculously transformed to look like him.

The substantial correlation between the gospel and Islamic beliefs immediately raised questions about the gospel’s authenticity. Speculating that the text was created to either serve as a bridge between Christianity and Islam or assert Islamic superiority, experts got to work. Apart from the clashing message, the use of references to things that had not yet been invented during biblical times and the results of linguistic analysis determining that the text was likely written in Italian or Spanish during the late Middle Ages permitted experts to confidently debunk the text as nothing more than something designed to validate Islamic beliefs.

Even so, it has been used to support arguments that Christian Gospels were corrupted over time, and early Christianity was actually more in line with Islamic teachings. Others have used it to promote interfaith dialogue.

The Monkey Christ

^{"Ecce Homo" by Elías García Martínez is in the public domain. Available at Wikimedia Commons.}

In 1930, Spanish artist, Elías García Martínez, adorned the wall of the Sanctuary of Mercy church with a fresco (type of painting) depicting Christ wearing a crown of thorns. Titled Ecce Homo (Behold the Man), the painting was cherished by the local community. 

Unfortunately, time alongside excess moisture in the walls caused the artwork to deteriorate. By 2012, the severity of the damage had become critical. Donors contributed money for the restoration of the mural, including Martínez’s granddaughter. Yet, prior to collecting full funding, the painting had been seemingly defaced. 

The transformation is so drastic that it appears as if someone has intentionally set out to create a parody. The once fine and mournful visage has been replaced by broad, crude strokes. Almost cartoonish in its simplicity, gone are the gentle contours of Christ’s face that once captured the delicate play of light and shadow. Instead, there is a heavy, flat, careless application of a muddled array of gray and brown paint. His delicate mouth was modified to a thick sloping line stretching from cheek to cheek and the once-painted cascade of dark locks now resembles a smudged mass. 

The act, which authorities initially attributed to vandalism, was revealed to be the well-meaning restoration attempt of Cecilia Giménez, an 81-year-old parishioner. Saddened by the art’s continued pathetic state, Giménez took it upon herself to fix it. Defending herself, she rationalized that the clergymen and priest were aware of what she had been doing and that the painting had not been completed.

It didn’t take long for the botched restoration to become a viral sensation. Jokes and memes earned the painting the nickname Ecce Mono (Behold the Monkey). 

Despite the initial shock and embarrassment, as visitors across the flocked to see the painting, the “Monkey Christ” became an economic benefit for the small Spanish town.

The Mar Saba Letter/Secret Gospel of Mark

^{"Letter of Clement to Theodore" is in the public domain. Available at Wikimedia Commons.}

In 1958, Columbia University professor Morton Smith announced that during his visit to the library within the Mar Saba monastery (located southeast of Jerusalem) he discovered a letter written in the final pages of a 17th-century book. 

Penned by Clement of Alexandria, an ancient Christian theologian and Greek Philosopher, the contents of the letter address concerns about a provocative written work referred to as the “Secret Gospel of Mark.” Clement explained that this version of Mark was more spiritual and deeper, and intended for advanced Christians. Reportedly used throughout Alexandrian churches, Clement shared direct quotes from the secret gospel to describe additional accounts that offer greater insights into Christ’s teachings and His relationship with His disciples. 

Quickly gaining notoriety, one particular passage became the subject of a heated debate. The passage describes an account where Christ raised a young man from the dead, after which the young man "looked upon him, loved him, and began to beg him that he might be with him." Though widely contested, this, coupled with a separate reference to a "carpenter's son" initiation rite, provoked suggestions that the secret gospel conveys a more intimate relationship between Christ and His disciples. 

Since its reception, experts have remained divided on the letter’s legitimacy. Some believe the letter is a forgery Smith cooked up as some kind of joke, while others accepted the letter as a valuable manuscript that could provide a glimpse into the diversity of Christianity. However, the possibility of an official verdict has come to a standstill. Due to various complications and its subsequent misplacement, the letter never underwent any testing. Later colorized photographs that Smith took of the letter are the only evidence that remains of its existence.

Real or not, the letter has fueled discussions that explore the idea that Christian teachings may have been reserved for a more spiritually mature audience, the existence of beliefs and practices that were later abandoned, and the potential of the deliberate removal and suppression of early Christian texts. 

The Gabriel Stone

^{"Gabriel's Stone" by Talmoryair is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0. Available at Wikimedia Commons.}

The Gabriel Stone is a large stone tablet reportedly discovered near the Dead Sea in the early 2000s. Dating back to the late first century BCE or early first century CE, it features an inscription written in Hebrew that appears to recount a vision delivered by the archangel Gabriel. Within its 87 lines of text, it references “the Prince of Princes” and the command to “arise” after “three days.” 

The Gabriel Stone has generated a range of interpretations, particularly regarding its potential implications for early Judaism and Christianity. Particularly, some consider the cryptic references alluding to a figure who is expected to rise from the dead, drawing parallels to the resurrection of Christ as described in the New Testament.

However, the stone’s poor condition has caused the lettering to become fragmented. The incomplete message renders the text to be too ambiguous and speculative, leaving experts to caution against making any definitive assumptions. Still, unable to draw firm conclusions, the stone's precise significance and meaning are still debated today. 

Wrapping Up

Drawing attention to the ever-present tension between truth and belief, the stories we’ve shared over the last two weeks serve as cautionary tales.  Clearly, the allure of the enigmata surrounding religion makes fertile ground for deception. Inasmuch, they remind us to critically approach extraordinary claims, while simultaneously denoting our responsibility to safeguard God’s truth. 

-Torrance Community Church of Christ