A Fool's Coat

In the scriptures Paul reminds us that we are not to be conformed to this world. Translation, we are not to compromise ourselves with the corrupt customs of our culture. We are to be different, or as Paul likes to say, “in the world but not of the world.” This is a task even the most dedicated believers struggle with.

The Puritan Minister, William Gurnall, echoed Paul’s reminder saying, “The Christian must not be such a complaint tailor as to cut the coat of his profession according to popular fashion.” Gurnall’s words are on target, even more so when we consider they were penned 1600’s.

“The coat of our profession” is a wonderful phrase. It’s like saying you are what you wear. It shows that we are not of this world but citizens of heaven. We therefore should be clothed in the garments of truth and not dressed in what is popular or the most current fashion. Popularity and fashions change about as often as the direction of the wind in Kansas.

It is difficult at times to stand out. Nonconformity is never trendy or popular. It is a difficult task to take a stand for truth, to choose to make decisions based on the word of God instead of what is popular. Yet many people struggle to stand up to the pressure to conform. They do not want to be labeled fools by those whom they view as more knowledgeable in worldly matters. They are afraid to be seen in what the world might call the fool’s coat. They choose, what we might describe as a self-tailored, yet fashionable, coat of conformity. A coat that is more stylish and colorful, more attractive to their pride. But in doing so, they turn their back on plainer yet more costly garment, the coat of truth. They have exchanged the truth of the scriptures for the praise and customs of the world. As Gurnall would say they “lose heaven because they are ashamed to go there in a fool’s coat.”

Truth is not always popular or fashionable. Truth is often difficult to discover and even more difficult to embrace. Individuals or our culture may seek to redefine truth based on their perceived needs, what is comfortable for them, or the opinion of a specific group.  However, truth is not based on the opinion of an individual or the group, or even a custom or fade. Truth is found in and based upon the word of God. To many this might be “a fool’s coat,” but to those who have given their lives to Jesus Christ it is, and will always be, in style. 

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