Les Feldick teaches informally without a suit and tie because he and his viewers prefer a homestyle, non-denominational, layman-led Bible study.
Les repeatedly emphasizes the 'informal Bible study' nature of his programs, describing himself as a layman and rancher rather than a pastor or theologian. He reports that many viewers explicitly ask him to never wear a suit and tie, and he happily complies because it was one of his initial stipulations when the program started. This informal approach also aligns with his goal of reaching people across all denominational lines without airs.
The transcripts provided do not contain any direct Bible verses or teachings concerning attire or formality in teaching. Therefore, from the available evidence, the Bible itself does not explicitly address whether a teacher should wear a suit and tie. The practice of informal teaching is rooted in the personal preference and context of the teacher, not a specific scriptural mandate.
Les Feldick consistently emphasizes that his Bible study is informal, and he repeatedly stresses this to his television audience (Clip 0, Clip 1, Clip 4, Clip 7). He states that many viewers write to him saying, 'don't ever put on a suit and tie,' and he assures them not to worry because it was a stipulation he made when the program began (Clip 0). He also identifies himself as a layman, rancher, and teacher rather than a preacher or pastor, further reinforcing the informal, homestyle nature of his teaching (Clip 5, Clip 6). He explains that this informality helps him reach people across all denominational lines without putting on 'airs' or being 'theological' (Clip 2, Clip 3).
Les wants to create a relaxed, classroom-like atmosphere where viewers feel like they are 'sitting right on the back row of your class' (Clip 6). He views himself as a teacher, not a preacher, and aims to keep the teaching on a 'rather low level' (Clip 6). This informality also reflects his desire to reach folks 'wherever they are, across all denominational lines' without compromising his teaching (Clip 2). He is 'totally independent' and free to teach as he feels the Holy Spirit has instructed him (Clip 1).
Les reports that he receives many letters from viewers who request that he never change his informal dress or style. He specifically mentions that people write and say, 'don't ever put on a suit and tie,' and he reassures them that they need not worry (Clip 0). This feedback confirms that his informal approach resonates with his audience.
Stipulation for No Suit and Tie
Les explains that when he was invited to the TV station, he stipulated that he would not wear a suit and tie, and that viewers write to thank him for it.
Informal and Independent Study
Les emphasizes that his study is informal and that he is totally independent, freeing him to teach as the Holy Spirit leads.
Informality to Reach Denominations
Les stresses informality to reach people across all denominational lines, and he made it one of his first requirements.
No Airs or Theologizing
Les says he doesn't claim to put on airs or be theological, but simply teaches the Word as the Lord has revealed it.
Informal Bible Study Reiteration
Les reiterates that the program is an informal Bible study, reinforcing the theme.
Layman, Not Pastor
Les identifies himself as a layman and rancher, not a pastor, and requests not to be called reverend or doctor.
Classroom Setting, Not Preaching
Les explains he wants a classroom setting and prefers to be a teacher rather than a preacher, keeping the level low.
Informal Class Invitation
Les invites the television audience to be part of the informal Bible class, emphasizing its casual nature.
No, Les has stated that when he was first invited to do the television program, he stipulated that he would not wear a suit and tie. Viewers have also written to him saying, 'don't ever put on a suit and tie,' and he assures them not to worry.
Les emphasizes the informality of his study to create a relaxed, classroom-like atmosphere where viewers feel like they are on the back row. He wants to reach people across all denominational lines without putting on airs or being theological.
No, Les identifies himself as a layman and rancher, not a pastor. He specifically asks not to be addressed as reverend or doctor, and he prefers to be called a teacher rather than a preacher.
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