Is God against women wearing make-up, jewelry, or other adornments? I was told that 1 Peter 3:3 stresses this fact.


Let's examine that particular verse:

Whose (wives) adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;

But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
(1 Peter 3:3-4)

As I read this verse in its context, I cannot support the fact mentioned in your question. Understanding the word "adorning" will help us interpret this Scripture.

Adorning comes from the Greek word "kosmos," which is translated throughout the New Testament as the English word "world." It's used to refer to the order or arrangement of this natural world. One of the strongest definitions of this word is "orderly arrangement."

Wives should emanate beauty from a godly inner source - not just an outward beauty. It's more important, and will be more of a blessing, for women to have a godly spirit and attitude, rather than to put their emphasis on clothing, make-up, or jewelry.

However, it is possible for women's beauty to issue forth from a godly source, as well as for them to be as attractive as they desire to be.

The Bible is telling the women not to put the outside before the inside. What we develop on the inside will never decay, but what we buy to wear, as well as our bodies, will grow old.

The most important area of emphasis must be our spiritual development.

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