Ellen Chat Conversation

The practice of abstaining from jewelry among Seventh-day Adventists is rooted in the principle of Christian self-denial and the desire to maintain a character consistent with their faith. Choosing to dress plainly and avoiding the display of ornaments of any kind is considered a fundamental Christian duty (CG 423.4). This commitment to simplicity serves as a safeguard against the extravagance and folly often seen in worldly fashions, which can distract the mind from spiritual priorities (3SM 245.5). Furthermore, the use of jewelry and expensive array is viewed as a form of idolatry that fails to add any true value to a person's character (6MR 159.2).

Instead of focusing on outward decoration, believers are encouraged to seek the "imperishable ornaments" of a meek and lowly spirit, which God considers of much higher value than gold or pearls (CG 423.4). An emphasis on external display is often interpreted as a sign of inward spiritual poverty and a lack of true wisdom (6MR 159.2). Adopting worldly styles of dress can also hinder the influence of those who claim to bear a solemn message for the world. When believers follow fashions to the point where they are indistinguishable from the world, it can lead to remarks from unbelievers about the inconsistency of their profession (3SM 243).

Maintaining a distinct, simple appearance is intended to represent the truth accurately and show that the heart is focused on the life to come rather than the pride of this world (Ev 269.3).

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Ellen White explicitly stated that believers should abstain from wearing jewelry and ornaments of every kind as a matter of Christian duty (CG 423.4). She taught that dressing plainly and avoiding outward display is a requirement for those whose faith is consistent with the gospel (3SM 245.5). This instruction is based on the idea that time and resources are too precious to be spent on adorning the body with gold, silver, or costly apparel, especially given the shortness of time before Christ's return (9MR 117.1).

The use of jewelry is described as a form of idolatry that provides an incorrect representation of the truth (6MR 159.2). According to this perspective, external ornamentation does not add any value to a person's character; instead, it often signals a lack of spirituality and a heart that is destitute of inward grace (BTS May 1, 1908, par. 4). Those who have such items are encouraged to practice self-denial by removing these "idols" and using the proceeds for the Lord's work (9MR 117.1).

Rather than seeking gold, pearls, or expensive array, believers are directed to focus on the "imperishable ornaments" of a meek and quiet spirit (CG 423.4). This inward adorning is considered of great price in the sight of God and is the only decoration that truly promotes happiness and reflects the spirit of Christ. Following worldly fashions in dress and jewelry is seen as a hindrance to one's influence, as it makes the believer indistinguishable from those who live only for this world (3SM 245.5). In her personal ministry, she applied these principles by advising new converts to lay aside gold bracelets and rings in favor of the biblical standard of modesty (9MR 118.1).

She maintained that the teachings of the apostles Paul and Peter regarding gold and pearls were clear instructions that these things must be laid aside by those professing godliness (3SM 246.4).

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