Do Outward Standards Protect Inward Holiness?

[staysharp]

I recently heard a message by a high profile UPC speaker. If I called his name, all would know him.

He said this; I believe in our standards because they protect our inward holiness.

Now my question is this: How can outward fleshly standards of dress protect Christ within us? Can the flesh actually protect holiness?

I understand standards may protect our reputation or witness for Christ, but can they actually protect Christ?

Did not Jesus say it's not what comes from without that defiles, but what comes from within?

Should the flesh even be alive with Christ in us? Does not God's word teach us to mortify the flesh and its deeds? Romans 6?

I would appreciate your comments. God bless.