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Thread: Informality

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    Backwoods Presbyterian's Avatar
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    Informality

    While I have heard many words against the type of formalism one might see in American Reformed circles I wonder what the point is of confronting our God with a sort of "Jesus is my bro" type of front that is put on by many. Do they really think the God the Holy of Holies is into their hipness?
    Benjamin P. Glaser, M. Div, Licentiate, Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church
    Ruling Elder Fairmount ARP Church
    Pittsburgh, PA


    "I am as happy as perhaps creation can make me. I enjoy all the necessaries and most of the conveniences of life. I have a peaceful study as a refuge from the hurries and noise of the world around me, the venerable dead are waiting in my library to entertain me..." --Samuel Davies

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    This bothers me sometimes, as well. But God isn't "into" either. He's not into "Jesus is my bro," and He's also not "into" expensive style. Issue of balance. Culturally, this is a tough one as I travel a lot and so encounter the perils of both extremes.

    In the US, I end up dressing quite formally, as a church musician. Even when not playing, I dress formally. Sure, I'm meeting with a Friend, but He's a Friend Who deserves the greatest of Honor. But I don't mind those who tone down somewhat. Once again, an issue of balance.
    Pete
    Missionary
    The Free Presbyterian Church
    I'm often in different countries...
    but my home base is Pennsylvania
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    Less than formal attire does not necessitate an attitude of "Jesus is my bro..."
    Pergamum


    "If a commission by an earthly king is considered a honor, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice?"
    -- David Livingstone
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    Of course not.
    Pete
    Missionary
    The Free Presbyterian Church
    I'm often in different countries...
    but my home base is Pennsylvania
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    It bothers me as well. But, not nearly as bad as the "Jesus is my boyfriend" music.
    Dennis E. McFadden, Ex Mainline Baptist (in Remission)
    Atherton Baptist Homes, CEO
    First Baptist Church of Alhambra, Member, Transformation Ministries (CA)

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    I have been dwelling on this issue for a while, actually. I grew up as a pastor's kid so I would dress nicely but then as I came into my teenage years I strayed from the Lord a lot and my concern for honoring Him was so minimal that of course I wasn't even thinking about what I was wearing as I was dragged to church. However, since I have come back to Him and progressed so much in my relationship with Him apart from formal attire, I can't in my heart connect "formal dressing" and "honoring God." They just don't feel related to me, although I understand how others certainly feel differently. I think it has to do with the fact that to me formality seems almost exclusively related to behavior, attitude, etc. rather than anything external. Don't get me wrong, I don't think that the Hooters T-Shirt or sweatpants with "Hottie" printed across the rear should be worn to church because it is immoral but likewise I'm just not sure if a suit and tie brings any more glory to God than blue jeans and a T-Shirt if one's heart is the same either way.
    What do you all think? I'm sure that everyone would agree that a proper attitude is necessary but is there really an issue with "informal" clothing? I suppose there might be an issue if wearing "informal" clothing is somehow a stumbling block for a someone else, although it would seem that such a person is rather immature. Or am I completely wrong?
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    Quote Originally Posted by DMcFadden View Post
    It bothers me as well. But, not nearly as bad as the "Jesus is my boyfriend" music.
    I think it was Horton who referred to it as "Christian Prom Music."

    BTW, I also had a friend who was highly insulted when he saw someone wearing a t-shirt that said, "Jesus is My Home Boy."
    Kevin Guillory
    Pastor
    Redeemer Christian Congregation
    Baltimore, MD

    I don't interpret Scripture. Scripture
    interprets itself. And in the process ...
    Scripture interprets me!
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    Is this thread about how we address God or how we dress to go to worship? I'm confused? Of course, I have opinions on both to offer.
    Donnie MacLeod
    Crossroads Presbyterian Fellowship (PCA), Maplewood, MO
    MDiv Student Covenant Theological Seminary

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    when grain and wine abound.Ps 4:7, Sing Psalms 2003
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    How we address God. At least that is what I meant but you are welcome to speak on both...
    Benjamin P. Glaser, M. Div, Licentiate, Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church
    Ruling Elder Fairmount ARP Church
    Pittsburgh, PA


    "I am as happy as perhaps creation can make me. I enjoy all the necessaries and most of the conveniences of life. I have a peaceful study as a refuge from the hurries and noise of the world around me, the venerable dead are waiting in my library to entertain me..." --Samuel Davies

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    Is "Abba Father" an address of formality or informality?
    Pergamum


    "If a commission by an earthly king is considered a honor, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice?"
    -- David Livingstone
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    Quote Originally Posted by Pergamum View Post
    Is "Abba Father" an address of formality or informality?
    Are we addressing informality or disrespect?

    For my earthly father: a respectful, loving "Daddy" is okay; "Old Man" is not.

    For my heavenly Father: a respectful, loving "Daddy" is okay; "the Man Upstairs" is not.

    Kim G
    Non-denom church (holds to the WCF)
    Zion Community Church, Greenville, SC

    Teach me Your way, O LORD;
    I will walk in Your truth;
    Unite my heart to fear Your name.

    Psalm 86:11
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    Backwoods Presbyterian's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Pergamum View Post
    Is "Abba Father" an address of formality or informality?
    Depends on what you believe "Abba" to mean.
    Benjamin P. Glaser, M. Div, Licentiate, Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church
    Ruling Elder Fairmount ARP Church
    Pittsburgh, PA


    "I am as happy as perhaps creation can make me. I enjoy all the necessaries and most of the conveniences of life. I have a peaceful study as a refuge from the hurries and noise of the world around me, the venerable dead are waiting in my library to entertain me..." --Samuel Davies

    Deo Vindice
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