Is religious jewelry something a Christian should wear?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The Bible doesn’t specifically address wearing religious jewelry, but it does provide principles that can guide us. Jewelry can be meaningful, but it should not become an idol or draw excessive attention (Genesis 24:22, 53; Isaiah 3:18–21; 1 Peter 3:3). Religious items cannot replace a relationship with God, and if jewelry leads to pride or idolatry, it may be wise to avoid it (1 Corinthians 10:14). Ultimately, the heart’s intention and whether it glorifies God are what matter most when deciding whether to wear religious jewelry, or jewelry of any kind.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• The Israelites made a golden calf from their jewelry, which became an idol (Exodus 32:2–4). Objects (even religious ones) can lead to idolatry if our focus shifts from God to the item itself.
• Jewelry was used by Abraham’s servant as a gift to Rebekah to honor her and signify her connection to Isaac (Genesis 24:22, 53). Jewelry can serve as a meaningful symbol, not of worship, but of relational value or covenant.
• In a rebuke of Israel’s vanity, God calls out their excessive adornments, including jewelry (Isaiah 3:18–21). While jewelry is not inherently wrong, its use should not stem from pride or self-glorification.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• First Corinthians 10:14 teaches, "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry." Religious jewelry, such as a crucifix or cross, should not be worn if it is used as an object of worship. We serve the Lord, not a necklace.
• First Peter 3:3 teaches, "Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear." There is nothing inherently wrong about a cross on a gold chain, but there could be something wrong if your entire focus is in causing people to look at the religious jewelry you are wearing in order to gain attention. We do need to be cognizant of our motives as well as the appropriateness of our apparel to our surroundings (1 Timothy 2:9–10).
• Paul wrote in Romans 14:13, "Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother." If our jewelry causes other people to sin or stumble, we should reconsider whether it is appropriate to wear it.
• Children should honor their parents regarding the wearing of religious jewelry. In some cases, a parent may oppose the wearing of certain jewelry. A child is called to obey his or her parents: "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right" (Ephesians 6:1). Colossians 3:20 says, "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord."
• Caution should be used in work contexts where there may be restrictions regarding jewelry. We are to submit to governing authorities (Romans 13:1). However, we may also need to sometimes take a stand (Acts 4:19). Consideration of the principles of submission, honor, truth, and genuine love for others are important. In any such situation, going to God in prayer for wisdom is the first step (James 1:5).

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

From a practical perspective, we can also ask, "Does wearing this particular piece of religious jewelry help me to serve God and share my faith? Does it glorify God?" If so, then it is likely a good thing for you to wear. If not, there is nothing wrong with refraining from the wearing of certain religious jewelry. God looks at our heart and knows if our desire is to serve Him. We must also realize what we wear can impact and influence others and use what we wear to give an appropriate view of our faith in God and help us in communicating Christ to others.

UNDERSTAND

• There is no command forbidding or condoning religious jewelry.
• Religious jewelry can be idolatrous.
• Religious jewelry can point others to and remind ourselves of our relationship with God.

REFLECT

• When you wear religious jewelry, does it help you feel closer to God, or does it risk becoming more of an accessory than a symbol of faith?
• Have you ever felt conflicted about wearing religious symbols, and if so, what guided your decision?
• How do you think your heart’s intention affects the impact of wearing religious jewelry?

ENGAGE

• How can we ensure that religious symbols we wear, like jewelry, bring glory to God rather than becoming sources of pride?
• How could wearing religious jewelry open up opportunities for conversations about faith? How might wearing religious jewelry sometimes create misunderstandings?
• How can we balance the personal value of religious jewelry with the biblical cautions about idolatry and appearance?