“Holy” simply means set apart. When God chose for himself a people, it was for the purpose of setting them apart, but not so they would feel special or superior, but rather to be a light for the nations (Isaiah 60:3).
This is why God had for the nation of Israel clear distinctions between them and the surrounding countries or people groups (or they were supposed to have them). They were to be different. The whole world could be known for one way of being, but God’s people were to be holy and set apart. When they let their light shine before others, the hope would be that the others would see their good deeds and glorify the father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
What does this have to do with Christian naturism? It is context for a discussion regarding the priestly garments God instructed to be worn. It helps set up this video…
It really doesn’t have anything to do with Christian naturism at all. It’s simply another objection that is raised when prudish Christians struggle to see the freedom we enjoy as permissible or beneficial. As with the other objections, a careful study of the text will exonerate Christian naturists from any guilt on their part for living “as God intended.” The perceived guilt is instead projected onto them, coming from a mind that has not been renewed on issues of the body. A friend pointed out in a youtube comment on one of these videos that those who make objections need “reNude” minds!
As the video points out, the issue isn’t the sight of simple nudity. Otherwise why would the priests be stripped bare to be ceremonially washed in front of the whole assembly?
The issue here was one of differentiation. Israel was to be an example of not just morality, but overall goodness. This is the reason idolatry was such an offense toward the Lord. When all the surrounding nations practiced sexual immorality as a part of their religious worship, God in no uncertain terms said, “Not so with you.” The invention of undergarments that went from the waist to the thigh would make it impossible to emulate and practice the pagan rituals that were commonplace in that time.
God wanted a marked difference between those who were his people and those who are on the outside looking in. He still wants that today. It’s a sad shame we often take our cues from the culture around us, instead of the other way around. We have a way that is more “holy.” I don’t use that term to sound religiously better than or holier than thou. God is still calling us to treat others with the respect and dignity they deserve as being made in His image. It’s time we opt for this higher view.
See all posts and videos in the “Objections” series here.
Aching for Eden 
“ The invention of undergarments that went from the waist to the thigh would make it impossible to emulate and practice the pagan rituals that were commonplace in that time.”
This may well be what your detractors think you are doing when you worship nude.
LikeLike
It may be. However, we are worshipping and not engaging in sexual acts. David also danced nude before the Lord. When Michal got onto him, that attitude of trying to stop him from doing this is what displeased God.
LikeLike
I know that, and you know that, but for one who is steeped in prudery, this is an enticing “proof text.”
LikeLike
Absolutely. That’s why we are creating this series of videos. Thanks for watching and expressing your thoughts!
LikeLike
God does not change, peoples thoughts are what changes! after all God told Abraham that His covenant would be circumcision, of all males as a sign to the world that they were His people! If the penis was to be hidden why would God make such a pact with Abraham?
LikeLike
Good point, Dwain. That’s the next video that is coming!
LikeLike
Another excellent article. I always assumed that some of the surrounding cultures were into phallic worship, and God didn’t want those cultures to think that His people were into the same.
LikeLike
We read with 21 century eyes don’t we?
LikeLike
I find it interesting that the main Priestly garments were made of the same stuff as the Holy Place. Blue fabric with gold thread and jewels. So when he came out the people would recognise him as the one who represented God. But on the day of atonement, when he be went into the Holy of Holies, his dress was plain. Maybe to remind him that he was going into the actual presence of God.
LikeLike