Going to the Prom?

Are you going to the prom? Do you have children who are going? For many, the thought of not attending is unthinkable. “Everyone else is going.” “It’s a rite of passage.” “Young people who miss prom are scarred for life!” Peer pressure and fear of missing out can be powerful influencers, but before you purchase that dress or rent a tux, please give careful consideration. Should a child of God be involved in an event like the prom?

Magazines and internet blogs put out articles relating to the “rich tradition” of proms. They carry headlines which should give anyone pause: “Tonight Will Last Forever,” “Dresses So Hot They Sizzle,” “Your Hottest Prom Body,” and “Sex: It’s Your Call.” With this type of language so present in the way it is marketed, can anyone claim ignorance as to what drives this event?

One sure feature at any prom, there will be dancing. There are many different types or forms of dancing. Even in the Bible, dancing is not all the same (2 Sam. 6:14; Mt. 14:6; Lk. 15:25). I’m not going to tell you that all dancing is sinful. However, movements which promote lustful desire, involve close bodily contact, and in some cases were specifically designed to tease by closely resembling sex are condemned in God’s word. Add to that the indecent and promiscuous messages of many popular songs and the problem only grows worse. Christians must not give themselves over to wantonness and lewdness (Rom. 13:13; Eph. 4:19; 1 Pet. 2:11; 4:3). We must protect our minds and hearts (Prov. 4:23; Mt. 5:27-28). One of the works of the flesh is lasciviousness, the unbridled desire commonly accompanying illicit sexual activity (Gal. 5:19-21). Getting as close to sex as possible is no way to protect your purity!

Immodesty is also commonly present at dances such as the prom. In clothing stores, it would seem the distinction between a “dress” and a “prom dress” would be that the latter would clothe far less of the body. Prom dresses often feature low necklines, open backs, slits up to the thigh, and are made to be extremely tight. They are built to highlight a young woman’s sexuality. All this combines to invite young men and women to spiritual destruction. Astonishingly, schools seem happy to have their students wear dresses to a school event which do not come close to meeting their own dress code requirements for a normal day of instruction. Don’t be conformed to the world’s low standards (Rom. 12:1-2). God wants His people to dress in a manner professing godliness (1 Tim. 2:9-10), to be chaste (Tit. 2:4-5), to not put a stumbling block before others (Mt. 18:7; Lk. 17:1-2), and to always act in sincere love (1 Pet. 1:22).

Many young Christians have said, “I’ll go, I just won’t dance or dress immodestly.” Sadly, many Christian parents support them in this decision. Why would you choose to be exposed to this? Why support this? Why not take this opportunity to demonstrate how God’s approval means more to us than the acceptance of our peers? As you give these thoughts careful consideration, remember the support system provided to you in the Lord’s church. Many congregations have wisely and lovingly provided opportunities for their young people in the form of a “Prom Alternative” or a “Jr. & Sr. Banquet.” Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to enjoy formal attire, good music, fancy food, photos, and even a little bit of romance—all without involving yourself in or supporting anything sinful. Together let’s demonstrate our love for God and choose not to attend the prom, because we can do better!