Garments

Nowhere in the New Testament do we see any indication that Christians are to dress in a way that would set anyone apart, especially in an elevated status. You see it in the Old Testament with the High Priest and in the New Testament with the Jewish religious elite. And of course, those of nobility and wealth would always dress lavishly.

46Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts; 47Which devour widows’ houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater damnation. Luke 20:46-47

Those in preeminence want to set themselves apart and the garments they wear, especially on religious occasions, does just that. The most effective are the white Roman collars, special robes, ceremonial hats, and an array of religious jewelry. Many garbs tend to lend an otherworldly religious aura especially when they hold some symbolic meaning that few understand.

In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; I Timothy 2:9

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Philippians 4:5

When equality is a predominant theme of the Bible, the verses on moderation and modesty reflect exactly that. Every attempt to set a person apart from others in a preeminent capacity should never be tolerated within a true fellowship.