Call Us: 423 661-4734 | Email: requests@comeandreason.com      
The Wedding Ring: To Wear or Not To Wear

The Wedding Ring: To Wear or Not To Wear

Is it wrong to wear a wedding ring? My husband and I used to wear our wedding rings, but later took them off because of [statements from church founders] that church members had pointed out to us.

  I have recently started wearing my wedding ring because of returning to college and working outside of the home with our children being in school.  My husband and I don’t look at the wedding ring as adornment, but like wearing a watch.  We also feel that the wedding ring is cultural and isn’t violating any biblical principles.

Concerns have been expressed to us such as:  a) it is a pagan symbol for concubines to the sun god – symbolizing the loss of virginity and the ring and finger symbolizing a sexual act, b) the Bible says not to wear gold or be adorned, c) we are living in the anti-typical day of atonement and all jewelry came off.

We don’t want to be a stumbling block to anyone or do something God doesn’t want us to do.


Thanks for sending this question, because not only does it give us the opportunity to discuss the question of the wedding ring, it gives us the opportunity to explore a much more significant issue – how do we deal with symbols?

The issue of the wedding ring is on par with Paul’s counsel in Romans 14 regarding food offered to idols. Those of weak faith, who “believe” the food offered to idols will have some “power” over them should not eat because in doing so the “idea” or “belief” that the false god has affected the food and will gain some power over them will negatively affect them. But those of great faith, who realize the idol is nothing but stone or wood and cannot affect them, can eat whatever they want.

Paul’s counsel had nothing to do with the quality of food but with the quality of thoughts a person had when thinking about the food. Likewise is the issue of the wedding ring. There is nothing inherently sinful or wrong in a piece of metal, it all depends on the thoughts or meaning one has about the piece of metal.

If one wears a ring and that ring symbolizes rebellion from God, rejection of His methods, self indulgence, aggrandizing self, etc. the problem is not in the ring but in the attitude one has in purchasing and wearing the ring. Likewise, if one believes the ring to be a symbol of pagan gods and somehow represents a sexual act, the problem is not in the ring but in the mind of one who thinks such thoughts. And if such a person were to wear a ring it would cause them anxiety, worry, guilt and interfere with their spiritual growth, not because the ring has any inherent evil power, but because their minds have been filled with evil thoughts about what they believe the ring represents.

When the prodigal son came home, the father, who represents God, placed a ring on his son’s finger. The ring had no inherent power, but was merely a symbol of authority within the realm of the father’s estate. Likewise wedding rings have no inherent power, but are symbols of something – the question is of what? Does the ring represent the circle of never ending love upon which God’s kingdom is based, as symbolically represented in Ezekiel’s vision (chapter 10)? Or does it represent some pagan rebellion against God? Those with weak faith (believing the ring has some evil power or symbolism) shouldn’t wear it, but those of great faith (understanding the ring is just a piece of metal) and who realize it symbolizes God’s never ending circle of love can wear it with peace.

Some raise the issue of frugality and allege that we divert resources away from God’s cause to buy a ring. This argument is the same one Judas used when the woman anointed Jesus’ feet with an ointment costing an entire year’s salary. And Jesus rebuked Judas for such a position. The marriage is symbolic of God’s love and His relationship with the church and not many people I know spend an entire year’s salary on a ring. Those who raise the argument of diverting money from God’s cause to a wedding ring demonstrate their petty natures and judgmental attitudes.

Regarding the antitypical Day of Atonement, those who raise the issue of the wedding ring show their ignorance of the meaning of the symbols and the purpose of the Old Testament system. The OT system was all symbolic. Jewelry was not about literal jewelry but represented self-aggrandizement, self-promotion, and self-exaltation and thus, in the antitypical day of atonement, it is fulfilled through a character that is humble, meek, and selfless. A wedding ring is irrelevant to this point as one may be quite proud and self-exalting, while refusing to wear a wedding ring, whereas those who wear a wedding ring are quite often Christ-like in their character.

Finally, even one of the founders of the church, who is quoted by those criticizing the wedding ring, did not argue it should never be worn:

I feel deeply over this leavening process which seems to be going on among us, in the conformity to custom and fashion. Not one penny should be spent for a circlet of gold to testify that we are married. In countries where the custom is imperative, we have no burden to condemn those who have their marriage ring; let them wear it if they can do so conscientiously, but let not our missionaries feel that the wearing of the ring will increase their influence one jot or tittle. — Special Testimonies to Ministers and Workers, No. 3, pg. 6

The point is, just as Paul said in Romans 14:5, “let every person be fully persuaded in their own mind.” Our culture has markedly changed from when the above statement was written. Many persons in today’s society do find it imperative to wear a ring and those who understand Christ’s principles will not set themselves up as judge and jury to condemn and criticize those wearing a ring. When we judge others we reveal the condition of our own heart as critical, unkind, and unloving. Our responsibility is, not to spend our time looking at fingers for silver, gold or platinum, but to shine forth God’s character of love in everything we do!

Email me the blog whenever a new one is published.

Donate online, securely via PayPal using your credit or debit card (no PayPal account needed, unless you want to set up a monthly, recurring payment).


cancel recurring payment

 

Want to use zelle instead?
See how on our
Support and Donations page.

Upcoming Events

calendar

Testimonial Post Slider

Testimony 58

I have been watching your videos in The Power of Love seminar and I must say these have liberated me and have improved my relationship with the Lord. I am no longer terrified of him as I was before following your teachings.

Thando N., South Africa

 

Testimony 29

Thank you for all of your work to correct misconceptions about God’s character. So many people that my husband and I have talked to seem to be against the natural law construct and view it as “errant” and “dangerous.” Having learned more about it through your blogs and lessons, I don’t really understand why they view it that way, except that it means they have to relearn theology they have known for their entire lives. But I’m so excited to relearn this. For the past few years I have been questioning how I could trust a God who punishes arbitrarily and is full of wrath for those who don’t obey His commands. That view made me afraid to “mess up” or “not be good enough,” even within my relationship with God. I really appreciated the point you bring out about God not wanting us to serve Him because we are afraid, but because we love Him.

Melissa H., IN, USA

 

Testimony 25

I just want to say thank you so much for your conversations via YouTube. I regularly tune in to your lectures, “Let’s Talk” sessions, and many others. Through these I’ve found greater depth and meaning to God’s word. Thanks for all that you do and please continue. I’m currently working in the middle of Silicon Valley at Stanford University. I feel like God really has me in the right place right now and I’m sensing that your teachings might be part of it.

B. F., Silicon Valley, CA, USA

 

Testimony 2

I continue to enjoy your lessons every week. The more that I research your conclusions, the more I am convinced that the Holy Spirit has lead you to distill out the essence of human redemption. Thank you for your courageous stand for the truth.

S. G., TX, USA

 

Testimony 65

I have been tuning into your weekly study classes for a while now and wanted express my appreciation for the teachings that ha been a huge blessing in opening up the true message of the word. Viewing scripture under an imposed law theory always, without fail, raised more questions, concerns, and conflicting scripture interpretations that were discouraging at the very least. Looking at scripture through the design law lens has brought more truth to light for me personally and an understanding of our Heavenly Father that places Him “above all others,” where I am now more than thrilled to witness and serve Him.  I “stumbled” across this ministry a year or so ago and would only watch a few minutes at a time. But the more I listened and the longer I paid attention, the more my spiritual eyes were opened to the ever present truths of scripture. The comprehension of the great controversy and it’s origin by the lies perpetrated and perpetuated throughout the Bible on the attack of God’s character and government is truly priceless. Keep up the Good Work! Your servanthood is desperately needed in such a time as this!

Jeff D., Reading, MA, USA

 

Testimony 42

I am just writing to say that I have been so blessed by the teachings of Come And Reason Minitries recently. I watched last week’s bible study lesson on Youtube and am thankful that the error in the printed lesson guide you use was pointed out and this week’s study was of equal benefit, if not more so. My understanding of God’s nature has been very confused of late and I am so grateful for clarity in this matter. I have never really fully understood previously how a good God can cause bad things to happen and now I realise that He doesn’t, it’s a natural consequence of sin. May the almighty Father and His Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ, continue to bless your ministry.

Laura P., United Kingdom

 

Testimony 53

I was so blessed by a friend who gave me your book, “The God Shaped Brain,” while I was sitting in church asking God to please help me learn more about Him and help me not to be so confused and scared. That was about 2 years ago. Your books have helped me to love God even more. I’m not confused or scared anymore! I have listened to all of your bible study classes and feel like I know the wonderful people that attend every week. Thank you for all that you’re doing in spreading the true message about God and His law of love. God bless you and your whole class.

Elssy P., Modesto, CA, USA

 

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 49

I came into the church at 21, but that is as far as it went. I was so confused about what love is. I couldn’t find it in the bible, because I am not a person that can read between the lines. I have no logic. I have read many, many books; trying to figure out the crux of the matter. They were helpful, but something was still missing. I have become very frustrated to the point of crying out to God, “Where can I go?”  I needed some basics.

I found two books, written by Timothy Jennings, MD, to be very helpful. God showed me that I had lived my whole life in fear. I didn’t even see it. Now, I do. God is so good.  I discovered the “The Remedy”  Dr. Jennings new book, “The God-Shaped Heart!” Oh, I was so excited, I purchased them right away.

I can get rid of most of my books, because “The Remedy” brings the Love of God out so clearly, even I can’t miss it. Now, I want to sit and read my Bible. Wow, what a revelation! It is just simply Awesome! I am so grateful to Jehovah Almighty for hearing my prayer for more understanding! I am so encouraged!

Jackie S.

 

Testimony 61

I grew up in a prominent protestant church and had what I like to call religious anxiety. I’ve always had questions about God and Salvation that no one could seem to answer.  I didn’t know how to find resolution. During 2020, at the height of my anxiety, I fell to my knees and begged God to show me truth and light and to give me the hope that I’ve been longing for. Days later, I stumbled upon your online videos and it was like a veil was lifted and EVERYTHING made sense! For the first time in my almost 39 years of life, my religious/spiritual anxiety has lessened. I feel a sense of freedom and peace I’ve NEVER had before… and it’s all because my view of God has changed. Thank you!

Ashleighn C.

 

Testimony 37

Hearing Dr. Jennings’ presentations in person came at a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey that began about nine months ago, when the fault lines inherent in my belief system began to crack under questions that most reasonable people end up asking about God and His nature. These were questions I couldn’t find answers to, and they shook my faith. I was unable let it go any longer and be satisfied. My Christian experience became distant. I was afraid; the fear in me rose like thorns, pushing me away from Jesus. And then someone heard my questions and introduced me to this ministry, and my life has totally changed.

I can tell you that this new, “present truth” message is far grander and life-changing than when I shifted from being an agnostic and then a nominal Christian. It has radically altered my worldview, because it reveals a God that makes sense. It is a revolution. I believe that Dr. Jennings’ message is the final message that must go to the world. If any message could be called “righteousness by faith,” as abused as that term is by the right and the left, this is that message, because Jennings’ biblical message identifies a God who is different, whose character isn’t an impossible contradiction.

I walk this path now without fear. I see people differently, and the Holy Spirit burns in my heart. Many call Dr. Jennings’ message false and compromising, but it isn’t false, because I’ve seen the fruits within my mind and body. It is not compromising, because in this message is the only road to holiness that makes any sense. No longer do I behold a pagan god who is always angry and suspicious. Instead, I behold a God who is freeing and loving, always working for our good, and giving me every reason to love my enemy even to my own death, just as Jesus pleads with us. God is good.

Anthony L., CA, USA

 

Testimony 23

I would just like to add my voice to the many people who, I believe, must have contacted you to express their appreciation for the “Healing the Mind” DVDs. I’ve been listening to your Bible study class discussions for many years and I’ve been personally blessed by your research and teaching about the character of God.

L. G., Oakland, MI, USA

 

Testimony 22

I have found your Bible study class lectures to be very inspiring and useful as I prepare to teach class every other week. I subscribe to the podcast and download your notes on the weeks I teach. The audio and notes are such a great help in preparing. My own understanding of God’s character has grown as I teach the class. Commendations on the thought-provoking and well-prepared material Come and Reason provides. Personally, I get excited by the tie you make between the spiritual and mental/physical domains.

A.A. Corrales, NM, USA

 

Testimony 68

Your message of design law vs imperial law is so uplifting and makes so much sense- it is a game changer for me. The fact that Jesus’s death is not a big payment by an angry God is , quite frankly, a relief.

Laura G., London, Ontario, Canada

 

Testimony 28

I have been following your Bible study class for about a year now. I must say I am impressed with how your ministry has grown. I took it upon myself to listen to all your lesson podcasts from the past and they have both enriched me physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I have learnt a lot from this class. I have also noticed how the class has grown in spiritual strength. One of the things that benefited me is that now I am not afraid of God. I use to be, but now it has melted away. The second thing is that you helped me to have a real life relationship with God. Now He is my friend that was always there and I love having him with me all the time. Thirdly, because of this class, it inspired me to take over and lead a class. I have called it “Let Us Reason Together,” adapting your inquisitive style and creating a class of free thinkers.

T. Banda, Malawi, Africa