1 Timothy 2:9

Like manner. Paul now expresses his will concerning the proper attitude and conduct of women church members.

Adorn. Gr. kosmed, “to put in order,” “arrange.”

Modest. Gr. kosmios, “well-arranged,” “in good taste,” hence, “proper” in the sense of being conservative.

Shamefacedness. Gr. aidds, “self-respect,” “modesty.” Such an attitude shudders at the thought of shameful deeds, and holds a reverence for purity that prevents such deeds.

Sobriety. That is, soundness of mind, self-control. Paul here pictures the converted Christian woman as one whose every desire is to reflect the selflessness of Christ. She determines to fulfill her womanly tasks with grace and resourcefulness, without being a burden either to the church or to her husband.

Braided hair. Gr. plegma, something “woven,” “twisted together,” “braided.” In the context the word “hair” must be understood. Paul’s theme in vs. 9, 10 is feminine modesty and a high regard for moral purity. Any hair style that is designed to attract special, and flattering attention to its owner would be in contravention of the principle here set forth. However, hair that is carelessly done up may be equally conspicuous and in violation of Christian principles. Good taste is a part of good religion.

Gold, or pearls, or costly array. See on 1 Peter 3:3-6. The purpose of costly adornment, whatever form it may take, is to attract attention to oneself. It is always an expression of selfishness and sometimes, also, of a desire for improper attentions from the opposite sex. For the Christian, modesty, quality, appropriateness, and serviceability should determine what is worn and how it is worn. Expenditures that go beyond this ideal are incompatible with the principles of Christian stewardship. Such display reflects personal vanity and self-centeredness, which are not consonant with Paul’s plea for Christian self-respect and modesty.