Prom and homecoming are popular events for many high school students. As fun social events, they provide opportunities to dress up, dance, and spend time with friends. However, for Christian teens, the decision of whether or not to attend prom or homecoming can be complicated. The Bible does not directly address school dances, so Christians need to carefully consider issues like modesty, alcohol use, and romantic entanglements when deciding if attending is a wise choice. Let’s look at some key factors.
The Heart’s Motives
As Christians, our actions should ultimately be motivated by bringing glory to God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Attending prom or homecoming simply because it’s a cool thing to do or due to social pressure does not reflect a God-honoring attitude. However, attending with the purpose of enjoying time with friends or serving others can be appropriate if done with wisdom. The book of Proverbs says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it” (Proverbs 4:23). Praying about your motivations and being honest about your reasons for wanting to attend is a great starting point.
Modesty in Dress
Most prom and homecoming events involve formal attire and fancy dresses. While not inherently wrong, some styles can cross the line into revealing and sexually provocative clothing. The Bible encourages women to dress modestly and avoid wearing anything sexually enticing (1 Timothy 2:9). When shopping for a prom or homecoming outfit, look for options that are elegant but not too revealing or sexually suggestive. Avoid dresses with high slits, plunging necklines, or bare midriffs. Dress to impress without compromising your Christian values.
Romantic Pressures
In today’s culture, prom and homecoming are very connected to romance, relationships, and premarital sexuality. Many assume dates, slow dancing, hotel parties, and sexual activity are just normal parts of these events. However, as Christians, we are called to honor God with our bodies and reserve sexual activity for marriage (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). Pray about who you should attend with, avoid getting into a compromising situation at after-parties, and set physical boundaries if you have a prom date. You can enjoy the event without compromising your values.
Alcohol and Drugs
Underage drinking and drug use are unfortunately common occurrences around prom and homecoming parties. The Bible warns strongly against drunkenness and mind-altering substances (Ephesians 5:18). For your own safety and Christian witness, commit to avoiding alcohol and drugs during prom/homecoming events. Make a plan ahead of time for how you will respond if faced with peer pressure in this area. Surround yourself with like-minded friends who will hold each other accountable.
Glorifying God
Ultimately, as Christians we want to glorify God with our lives, including entertainment choices (1 Corinthians 10:31). Attending prom or homecoming simply as a status symbol or to satisfy a craving for popularity does not align with this goal. However, attending with the purpose of building godly friendships, serving others, and enjoying the fruits of God’s creation can be done to His glory. Pray and seek wisdom about your motivations. Set boundaries ahead of time. Stay close to God and analyze your choices in light of Scripture.
Parental Guidance
Since you are still under your parents’ leadership as a high schooler, seek their guidance about prom attendance (Ephesians 6:1-3). Have an open conversation about their concerns, boundaries, and expectations. Listen humbly and share your thoughts respectfully. While you may not agree on everything, honoring their authority provides good practice for future obedience to God. He has placed your parents over you for your protection and growth in wisdom.
Financial Stewardship
Prom and homecoming can get very expensive with tickets, clothes, transportation, dinner, etc. While enjoying some special things is fine, lavish spending can easily get out of control. The Bible encourages financial stewardship and warns against greed and love of money (Luke 12:15). Pray about what expenses for the event are prudent and which ones can be cut back or eliminated. Be creative to save money, like borrowing a dress or carpooling. Use wisdom in your spending.
Safety Precautions
With all the glamour of prom night, practical safety issues can be overlooked. Use wisdom to stay safe (Proverbs 3:21-23). Only share your prom plans and location with trusted friends and family. Stick with your group and don’t go off alone. Have a specific pick-up time and place arranged with your parents. Charge your phone in case you need help. Avoid risky behaviors like excessive drinking, drug use, or late-night hotel room parties. Take precautions to protect yourself and your friends.
After-Prom Activities
Many prom and homecoming nights continue into the early morning hours with hotel parties, late-night dinners, etc. These activities can easily lead to unwise choices. Set a reasonable end time for your evening and stick to it. You may feel peer pressure to participate in late-night events, but hold your ground if they compromise your values. Thank your date and wish everyone well, then head home at a reasonable time. You can politely decline after-prom activities that are risky or unnecessary.
Witness for Christ
As Christians, our lives are always a witness – including at social events (Matthew 5:16). Attending prom or homecoming provides many chances to reflect Christ through your actions, attitude, and friendships. Be full of grace, mercy, and wisdom. Avoid gossip, crude language, or judging others. Look for opportunities to encourage classmates, serve humbly, and show God’s love. Pray ahead of time for chances to plant spiritual seeds. Let your life shine!
Examine Your Heart
More than just a list of rules, following Jesus means honestly examining our hearts and motivations continually. As you make decisions about prom or homecoming, bring your thoughts, feelings, and desires humbly before God. Confess any sins or unhealthy motivations (1 John 1:9). Ask Him to purify your heart and align your will with His perfect wisdom. Let the Holy Spirit guide your choices, not sinful peer pressure, spirit of fear, or selfishness (2 Timothy 1:7). Walk in freedom and joyful obedience.
Focus on Eternity
As fun as prom night can be, its pleasures quickly fade. Earthly events like prom, homecoming, or even high school last only for a moment in light of eternity. Keeping an eternal perspective helps us make wise choices each day (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Build your life around things with eternal significance: your identity in Christ, worship, godly relationships, righteous living. Hold prom loosely, but cling tightly to the Lord. He alone satisfies our souls fully, now and forevermore. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.
In summary, the decision about attending prom or homecoming is unique for each teen based on their specific circumstances. Pray and seek godly counsel as you weigh factors like your motivations, parents’ guidance, modesty, safety, financial stewardship, and your Christian witness. Set boundaries ahead of time and attend with wisdom. Ultimately, whatever you choose, honor Christ and focus on eternity. He will lead you to make biblically-wise decisions about prom.