Why Does Our Pastor Wear a Geneva Robe?

You have probably heard the idiom, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” The way we dress says something about our personality, character, and even our job. Imagine if you will, walking down Königstraße in Stuttgart. You see a young man in a full suit, freshly polished dress shoes, a nice Rolex watch, and carrying a briefcase. It would be abnormal to assume this man is headed to flip burgers at McDonalds, though perhaps that could be a possibility. Nonetheless, what we wear says something about us.

In the modern evangelical church, a pastor’s clothing has been a point of contention between those faithful to biblical worship versus a “modern” approach. For example, a popular Instagram account aptly named “PreachersNSneakers” (preachers and sneaker), has gained momentum in posting pictures of highly charismatic popular “preachers” wearing high-end attire. One particular individual, who will remain nameless, infamously wore a bright pink sweater one Sunday which retailed at $1,950! Often, these individuals proclaim what is known as the “prosperity gospel” (which is not gospel at all). The prosperity gospel hinges on generous donations from congregants to feed the financial prosperity of the preacher under the ruse of being blessed by God, a topic for another day.

Why all the fuss about dress and what people wear? This context helps shape one of the main reasons why the Geneva Robe is part of the Reformed tradition in worship. The focus of worship is upon God. Reformed worship has been principally aimed at the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Likewise, God’s Word is central to worship. The Word is preached, prayed, sung, read, and used throughout the service. Man is not center, God is. Therefore, the Geneva Robe covers the minister to speak a clear message, “The sermon, worship, or singing is not about the minister, but it is solely about God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.” A high view of God naturally leads to a high view of worship.

Another important reason for the Geneva Robe is a reaction against the Papacy (Roman Catholic Church). I recently attended a Reformed Colloquium in Budapest, Hungary. Prior to the conference, I walked to St. Stephen’s Basilica. Inside, there were side rooms dedicated to some of the former priests who had ministered there. They had their beautiful vestments behind glass, often depicted with the crucifixion, or a large cross on the back. The vestment, or “robe,” was interlaced with gold, gems, and colorful fabrics. Though I detest what Rome stands for, I was mesmerized by the design and care that went into crafting such beautiful garb. However, another thought slipped through my mind, “What if the money given by members of the church went into mercy ministries, or planting churches, or discipleship, rather than this gown?” Therein lies the fundamental disparity between Reformed worship and other forms, both Roman Catholic and modern evangelical, the focus is upon how the minister looks (though a stretch to call priests ministers of the gospel).

We do not wear the Geneva Robe to try to look more “Puritan-esque” nor is it to be traditional, per se. Rather, the congregation should be focused on consuming the Word of God, not the image of the preacher. The preacher should likewise not be troubled with frivolous temporal trepidations as what to wear, or how they should look (cf. Matthew 6:25-33). They should be concerned with faithfully expositing the Word of God and applying it to the hearts of those who hear that they may grow in maturity through the power of the Holy Spirit in them by conforming to the image of Jesus Christ, their only comfort in life and in death, to the glorious praise of God the Father.

For a longer and more in-depth treatment on the topic, check out Dr. C. Matthew McMahon’s article.