Biblical Perspectives on Wedding Rings and Simplicity

The Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy teach that the wearing of a marriage ring is an unnecessary custom that does not provide evidence of one's faithfulness to the marriage vow7LtMs, Lt 2b, 1892, par. 14+1. While the outward adorning of gold is discouraged, the true "golden link" for a Christian is the possession of a pure and holy character and a spirit of meeknessSpTA03 6.1+1.

The Standard of Simplicity

• The use of jewelry, including gold rings and showy earrings, is often a display of vanity that dampens the joy of those seeking to follow the example of JesusLS88 146.1+1.

• Scripture explicitly counsels that a woman's adorning should not be the outward wearing of gold or costly apparel, but rather the "hidden man of the heart" 1 Peter 3:3-4.

• True followers of Christ will have conscientious scruples regarding their dress and will choose to use their means for the advancement of God's work rather than for personal displayMYP 345.3+1.

• Instead of spending money on a "circlet of gold" to testify to a marriage, believers are encouraged to manifest the Spirit of the Master through patience, long-suffering, and kindliness7LtMs, Lt 2b, 1892, par. 14+1.

Instruction for Different Regions

• In America, the position of the church should be made plain: the custom of wearing a marriage ring is not regarded as obligatoryTM 180.2+1.

• Americans do not need to wear this sign because they are not untrue to their marriage vows, and a ring is no proof of fidelity7LtMs, Lt 2b, 1892, par. 14+1.

• However, in countries where the custom is considered imperative or legally required, there is no burden to condemn those who wear a marriage ring if they do so conscientiouslyTM 180.2+1.

• Even in such locations, missionaries and ministers' wives should not feel that wearing a ring increases their influence; their true influence is secured through a Christlike character7LtMs, Lt 2b, 1892, par. 14+1.

The Danger of Worldly Conformity

• There is a concerning "leavening process" where the church begins to conform to worldly fashions and customs7LtMs, Lt 2b, 1892, par. 14+1.

• The wearing of a gold ring, even a plain one, is considered a useless practice that can exert a wrong influence on othersT30 154.1.

• This conformity to worldly demands is a step toward yielding to greater powers when the final test of loyalty to God's commandments arrives5T 81.1+1.

• Believers are called to separate themselves from the world and its "tinsel," focusing instead on the inward adorning which God pronounces to be of great price5T 81.1+2.

The True Adorning

• The "heavenly adorning" consists of a meek and quiet spirit, which is far more precious in the sight of God than the gold of Ophir2T 593.1+1.

• The apostle Paul also emphasizes that those professing godliness should adorn themselves with good works rather than gold, pearls, or costly array 1 Timothy 2:9-10.

• By focusing on soul-culture rather than the preparation of the outward appearance, the youth can qualify themselves for positions of trust and meet the expectations of JesusMYP 345.3+1.

• Ultimately, the only garment that will grant entrance through the pearly gates is the robe of Christ’s righteousness4LtMs, Ms 17, 1885, par. 13+1.