While I am sensitive to dress etiquette with respect to culture, I also recognize the intent of 1 Cor 10:23-24. While this passage speaks directly to meat offered to idols, Paul's point is that he will not allow his exercise of his liberty put a stumbling block in front of another believer. By now, most of us should be aware of the male sexual response cycles. If not, may I recommend the first couple of chapters of Steve Arterburn’s (?) Every Man’s Battle which gives detailed examples of what the normal male sexual response. It is surprising to me, that with the talk radio shows, advertisement, and the decline in the culture, that Christian women are surprised to know that 80% of all men struggle to maintain their sexual integrity (including their imaginations) even at church. Here is what I believe women should keep in mind regarding their dress: Most of the normal male’s sexual response is based on what he sees, not what he feels toward someone, not on the mood of the moment, not even if he intends to feel that way. In fact, many men are embarrassed that even in Church they struggle with visual stimuli that can arouse them sexually. This is exactly why over 90% of pornography targets men. I, as a man, and not saying this to excuse this behavior; I believe that we are to discipline our bodies, even with blows if necessary, to bring it into subjection to Christ so that I won’t be disqualified from the prize. But I wish to emphasize the point that women are rightly concern about what to wear and I thank God for you who given a priority to modesty while being fashionable.
I also thank God for your sensitivity to this issue for another reason. Lately, I have noticed a trend in women toward visual sexual arousal. Some advertising is now targeting women in sexual ways and the male strip clubs aren’t going out of business either. I think the time has come that men, like women need to be concern about what they are wearing. I am certain that it will take the experience of Godly women like you to help men understand there Godly responsibility to dress modestly and fashionably.
Blessings to my sisters and colaborers in Christ,
John
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This is the debut album by EXW friend Paul Langford. Paul is a Chicago based singer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and conductor. Paul has a career that spans 14 years. Paul's work includes arranging for groups like GLAD, Voices of Liberty, VoiceTrek, The Chicago based "Caroling Party" and Day of Discovery Singers. His arranging has appeared on recordings side by side with greats like Gene Puerling and David Maddux, and he has sung with Don Shelton, Bonnie Herman and Bob Bowker, among others.