I currently own over 40 Christian T-shirts and wear one almost every day. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the impact they have on my witness for Christ. Although the general response from other believers is positive, many still find it difficult to wear them. Some feel embarrassed, thinking it might seem forced or preachy, while others doubt its effectiveness altogether. Let’s explore whether, as a Christian, you should include some Christian clothing in your wardrobe.
The Purposes of Christian Clothing
Firstly, we'll explore the three main purposes of Christian clothing. From there, we'll gain a clearer perspective as we evaluate how effectively it serves as a tool for the Kingdom.
1. Put your faith on display
Christians aren’t always easy to identify. Occasionally, you might encounter someone who is exceptionally joyful or kind, and recognise the work of the Spirit in their life. But beyond that, there’s no typical 'Christian outfit' that reveals us. This is where Christian clothing becomes useful: without waiting for the right moment, those around us can see that we believe in Jesus, which is the first step in most faith-based conversations! This makes it much easier to naturally share our faith wherever we go.
2. Reach beyond speech
Our impact for Christ usually begins when we speak, and that's perfectly fine. Conversation is a wonderful (possibly the best) way to share the gospel! However, the great advantage of Christian apparel is that it maximises our gospel influence at all times, whether or not we are in conversation. We have a voice even before we speak, and we can easily inspire spiritual thoughts and discussions. Who wouldn't want that? And since faith comes by hearing the word of Christ (Romans 10:17), a short Bible quote could even lead to salvation!
3. Encourage believers
Christian clothing isn't just for outreach! On many occasions, I've been built up in the faith and filled with joy through another believer's Christian T-shirt or hoodie. And it doesn't stop there—the wearer is also encouraged to be a fearless witness for Christ! As a young Christian, I was very nervous walking into school with a bold Christian message for everyone to see. But over time, as my faith in Jesus became more visible to other students, opportunities arose. All of this has helped me to be unashamed of Jesus Christ and His good news—at least more than before, by God's grace!
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The Impact of Christian Clothing
Let's honestly assess how effective Christian clothing can be. We'll examine three common objections to its impact in the real world.
1. Aren't we called to speak up for Jesus?
100%! Christian clothing should never be used as an excuse to avoid starting gospel conversations. Instead, it serves as a helpful tool to make it easier to naturally discuss your faith. If your faith is already prominently displayed, it becomes much simpler to bring it up, and others are more likely to show interest and ask questions. Additionally, you can share your faith with countless passersby whom you might not otherwise have the chance to engage with, provided the design is clear enough. A good example of this is Billboard Chris, who amplifies his message by wearing a billboard. Countless heads are turned and thoughts provoked while he interacts with individuals, maximising his impact by both wearing and sharing his message!
2. Isn't it better to blend in and be 'all things to all men'?
While blending in can be wise (in appearance not behaviour), we're primarily called to be set apart. If Christian clothing had the effect of repelling and annoying unbelievers, it might be wise to avoid it. Yet, not all designs and messages do this. Wearing a T-shirt that says "Turn or Burn" might be a little extreme! But compare that to one that says "Saved By Grace" or showcases an illustration of the empty tomb – they are bold enough to show your faith without being overly preachy or heavy. So, it's important to be wise. But Christian T-shirts don't bite! It's very rare that they hinder as much as they help!
3. Will people even notice?
If the design is clear enough, most definitely! Take a look at the three people below and consider what would catch your eye if you met them.
...Ok, you can hardly see anything other than the T-shirt in the central picture, but you get the idea! 😁
The majority of people opt for plain, neutral or understated clothing, aiming to blend in. According to Woven Insights, black clothing is by far the most popular option. There are many reasons for this, but one is that it avoids the attention-grabbing effect of brighter colours. Since most of us want to blend in, we avoid wearing clothing that screams "Look at me!". This causes clothing with bold designs and messages to stand out in a crowd. Ultimately, it comes down to how eye-catching the design truly is, but if you choose carefully, people will notice!
In short, Christian clothing helps us to speak up, stand out, and point people to Jesus. It certainly maximises our impact for God's glory and offers far more benefits than anything else!
Is Christian Clothing For Me?
It's time to focus on you and your wardrobe. We'll go through three questions to help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages and decide for yourself.
1. What does the Bible have to say about Christian clothing?
The Bible has a lot to say about clothing, especially when it comes to modesty, but doesn't have much to say about its design. However, we do find biblical insights that hint at God's heart for Christian attire. Observe how God calls us to the radical declaration of His Word because He provides faith and salvation through it.
First, we see again and again the call to publish His Word without reservation:
- God's people were commanded to publish the Word everywhere: 'You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.' (Deuteronomy 6:8-9)
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Jesus told His disciples, “What I tell you in the dark, speak in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops.” (Matthew 10:27) This is a clear call to share the message loudly and openly! He isn't literally telling them to stand on rooftops with megaphones, but we are to spread the word — our main concern is that Christ is preached (Philippians 1:18) and disciples are made (Matthew 28:19-20).
Then we see the reason, and it isn't that a particular method is powerful but the message and the word itself. Notice these verses:
- 'For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.' (Romans 1:16)
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'So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.' (Romans 10:17)
Piecing this all together, it is clear that God's Word is powerful and that we should proclaim it whenever given the opportunity. Now that printed clothing is so easily accessible, we face a choice: do we wear a Nike tick or Adidas stripes, or the Word of God? While it is not essential for Christians to wear Christian clothing, there are strong biblical reasons to consider it an honour to God in all things, including our wardrobes.
2. Is it your style?
This may seem irrelevant to some Christians. They believe we should disregard appearance as we seek to honour God. However, God is the Designer. If we are to take clues from His creation, it appears that He cares very much about appearance. That isn't to say it is the most important thing. You would be right to see outward appearance as insignificant compared to more meaningful matters, such as pleasing God. Yet, if we are to represent Jesus, we should do so well. And that means Christian clothing designers like myself have a duty to do our very best, aiming for excellence with every design!
So, what if you feel Christian clothing isn't for you because it doesn't match your style? First, I encourage you to take another look. Consider my Christian clothing brand, 3rd Day, as a random example (😁). There are currently over 700 items of Christian clothing to choose from... with many more coming soon! You're likely to find something that suits you. It's worth exploring other Christian brands such as Elevated Faith, Kerusso, and Stay Lit Apparel. Having said that, if you still can't find your style, maybe it simply isn't for you. You don't need faith-based apparel to honour God with your life.
3. Are you bold enough to show your faith?
The answer is yes! I was shy when I first started wearing Christian clothing. I wondered how I might look and didn't want to interrupt others with a spiritual message. To this day, when wearing big and bold messages like 'Jesus > Religion', I am a little cautious of offending religious Muslims in my area. Still, being bold is a decision. The more you wear Christian clothing, the more your courage will grow. It won't be long before it's second nature to wear a Christian T-shirt!
Where should you begin?
I'd recommend starting with something like this 'Good News (Cross)' T-Shirt. It's gospel-centred without being preachy and could inspire faith-based conversations among friends, family and colleagues.
Wherever you get your Christian clothing, I pray it helps you grow in faith, courage and your impact for the Kingdom, everywhere you go!
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