thank you for this article, i have just started doing a study on tattoos, and body piercings this article is conformation that God wants me to continue.some of the stuff i have been reading about like the origin and meanings of tattoos disturbed me a little and i thought that i should stop,but your article encourged me . thank you

4/27/2008 4:08:41 PM - anonymous

I have a tatoo myself and i did not get it done for the dead. I do not agree with ppl getting things that are vulger put on their bodies but i think that it can be used as a tool for witnessin to ppl that thinks all christians look down on them for havin tatoo's.. Somtimes when someone does something when they are younger that they regret, such as tatoo's or piercings, they let it hold them back from going to church and learning.. Christians need to remember that they should not be judgemental of someone based on apperance alone.. thank you for listening

4/30/2008 3:46:41 PM - anonymous

What if my tattoos are christian based? If they read "Power for Christ" and " Strength in Him"?

5/2/2008 4:03:50 PM - anonymous

I myself have many tattoos, I believe the subject was covered fairly, I thank you for your comments.

5/3/2008 2:03:36 PM - anonymous

I do think that it is important to remember that it was a cultural issue... Not that we should be marking our body with signs of false idols... But that it can be a witnessing tool!!! That point was well made by someone previously. So to those Christians that will judge re-read your Bible... And to those that are not yet christians, remember that times have changed tremendously!!!

5/6/2008 1:14:34 AM - anonymous

I believe people should really evaluate the reasoning behind getting a tattoo. Our bodies doesn't belong to us, but to God. If a friend leased their beautiful home to you, would you draw on the outside of it?

5/7/2008 12:55:01 PM - anonymous

I am a Christian, born and raised, and I too have large tattoos on both arms in honor of family relatives that have passed on to be with the Lord. I agree with the author in that my tattoos may cause someone to mis-judge me and doubt the seriousness of my walk with the lord, and perhaps had I been serving the lord (in spirit and in truth) prior to my getting the tattoos, I would have not gotten them. But, I too see where people who have tattoos can use them as tools to witness to those in the world, as they may be more incline to accept us that have tattoos, rather than a "squeaky-clean looking" person, not to say anything bad about the latter. I think God overlooks a lot, and we probably should follow the example he sets before us, and simply accept one another regardless as to how we look, and just share the good news with unconditional love with out judging one another for how we may look. God Bless!

5/9/2008 2:55:22 PM - anonymous

I have been thinking about getting 1 cornthians 13:4 tattoed on my forearms.It would be reminder to me,and a wittness to others.God looks on the heart of men not on the outside.The only one we should listen to is the holy spirit,it may be a sin to some and not to others.In all things we should bring glory to him.God bless.

5/19/2008 2:53:03 PM - anonymous

A relative regales others with his belief that anyone who has tattoos is going straight to hell. He also believes that if anyone has any "holes pierced in their skin or body parts removed" they, too, are going straight to hell - this includes a hysterectomy or appendix operation, body piercings and even amputations. This used to upset his children but they are now biblically astute enough to put these scriptures into context. Thanks for your insight. Anonymous in Texas

5/21/2008 3:40:16 PM - anonymous

Anonymous in Texas, Whenever I hear someone say some variation on, "going straight to hell", that is a powerful warning that the person has not truly understood the meaning of grace and mercy. Isn't God alone the judge of who loves Him and is deserving of His mercy? How can any man know the heart of another man? Is it possible that we can know for certain than anyone who has a tattoo has turned their back on God? Of course not! It's ridiculous. A tattoo is just a tattoo - it's not a one way pass to damnation. My feeling is that, in general, God would prefer that we not plaster our bodies with tasteless ink (I think He might be indifferent to small, tasteful tattoos). If we choose to do so anyway, God may feel some disappointment, but He will not loves us any less, and He will not abandon us as long as we love Him. Would any human father throw his son into a fire because he got a tattoo? Never, and God is a much better father than any of us. Anyway, that's my rant about people who go on about how God casts people into hell for insignificant sins. It's very insulting to God. I'm glad you were able to keep your perspective about it, and I'm glad his children can see from the scriptures how loving and amazing God really is. Thanks for your comment.

5/22/2008 7:00:11 AM - Michael Lane, Executive Director, Delve Christian Ministries

Several people have asked about faith-based tattoos. I think that one person's comment above hit the nail right on the head - listen carefully for the calling of the Holy Spirit. Personally, it's not my style to get a tattoo, even one with a Christian message. However, if someone got a Bible verse on their arm and they can tell me that, through careful prayer, they could feel the Holy Spirit leading them to it, I would not give it a second thought. I will also concede that depending on whom you associate with, it can draw attention to the Gospel and could be a powerful witness, but again, it has to be the desire of the Holy Spirit. We should not try to guess the will of God, we should ask Him and seek it in prayer.

5/22/2008 7:06:01 AM - Michael Lane, Executive Director, Delve Christian Ministries

This article and the comments help a lot. For a couple years, I have been contemplating getting a tattoo "James 5:16" under a cross on my shoulder. The subject came up with reference to a Christian friend of mine who is a Marine and was telling me about the historical significance behind "Don't Tread on Me." My parents flat out refused. I feel that if I do get one, they will disown me or shun me from the family. This article clarifies a lot of things for me. They are not against piercings at all, my mom has 4, I have 3 and both of my younger sisters have 3. They wouldn't give me a chance to explain the my reasoning behind me wanting the tattoos.

5/25/2008 10:34:50 PM - anonymous

remember that times have changed tremendously!!! was posted above. Does this give us the right to just go with the flow?? To disregard what the Bible says because after all God did not know that times would change!! This makes no sense to me, just an excuse to do what "WE" feel like doing and have a reason for doing it. When God inspired the prophets to write the Bible, He knew from day one to the very end how we would live and the changes of the seasons and all. He did not say, "this is not for the people living in the 21st century" and so on. Thank you and may God give each one of you the answers to all of your questions. Have a Blessed day :.)

5/29/2008 5:22:52 PM - anonymous

God is the same now and for ever, He does not change. From age to age He is still the same. So if your battling with a question about hair, tattoo, how to dress or any other question we should remember this fact. In the bible the only clear cut exception to the rule of men growing hair was Samson other than that no man was given authorization for growing hair or having a tattoo and for women there is no exception. Some people would say they have permission from the Holy Spirit to do things but you have to remember that the Holy Spirit does not go against the bible. So if you have a feeling that God is leading you to do something that is not in the bible you should question the spirit speaking. Remeber that the devil can appear as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Be careful my brothers and sisters of the faith and God be with you on this journey

6/2/2008 2:45:27 AM - anonymous

My older brother is a christan and so is my whole family and i and. Robert has a bunch of tatoos and i told my cousin that i wanted to get two. and she gave me the worst look in the whole world and told me that i wasnt going to go to Heaven if i got a tattoo. This Article really helped me clear things and i will get my two tattoos because they are about god and how he has influenced my life in so many good ways that i can't even imagin. well thanks again for the article

6/2/2008 1:03:43 PM - anonymous

perhaps it is our motives to getting tattoos and piercings which are the most important? to honour god or to honour oursleves? were christians instructed then in this passage not to get tattoos so they would be set apart from others for God? if so, then surely it is the content of our tattoos which does that?

6/2/2008 2:18:35 PM - anonymous

When we look at leviticus 19:28 we have to look at the whole chapter.In verse 27 it tells us not to cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard.These were laws given to the jewish people.Read acts 15:19-20 concerning gentiles.We are no longer bound by law but saved by grace.Jesus said,I did not come to do away with the law but to fullfill it.So if we are wraped in christ we need not worry.God has allowed me to be a part of leading many to christ with my tattoos and all.In fact,I was able to wittness to the man who gave me my last tattoo.God cares more about the inside than the out.I do not beleive that the devil would want you to get the word of God tattooed on your body.Remeber the law is fullfilled in what christ has finished.Thank God for his Grace,none of us could live by the law.God bless all.

6/5/2008 2:54:12 PM - anonymous

Hmmm Very well placed article. I personally have 1 tatoo and have 2 more on the way. Before i got my first one ( a celtic cross on my right arm) I did an indepth study on biblical teaching. I was now however as concerned with the passage in leviticus because well I am not under the law. Paul clearly states many time we are no longer under the law so unless your Jewish and haven't accepted Jesus Christ as your saviour the old testament law has passed away and the new covenant of Jesus Christ remians. I understand thatpeople will judge you cause well think of how far off people are who don't know the peace of God :) I respect your end desions not to get tattooing . Oh and I am glad you didn't have anyone stating the ignorant opinion using 1 Corinthians talking of your body being the temple of God ( reading the entire beggining one will notice the entire passage deals with abstaining from Fornication and now defiling your body with a whore)

6/5/2008 5:21:11 PM - anonymous

My fifteen and a half year old daughter wants a Christian tattoo so that she can use it to bring attention to Christ!!! At first I said "NO!!!" Then I began to study and pray about it! My daughter is a very strong Christian that witnesses every single day at school and I believe that the Holy Spirit would convict her if this was a sin!! I also began to see the contradictions in our theology...the verse in Lev. also talks about piercings and yet woman have been getting their ears pierced for years with no one thinking anything about it!!My daughter explained that people in High school will see it and doors will be opened to questions about her LORD and SAVIOR!! She will never regret it because she will never regret her relationship with Jesus Christ!! I am truly considering it! I am a youth director and I have seen many totally sold out Christians with tattoos!!! Remember the bible also says that "Man looks at the outward appearance, but GOD looks at the heart!!!"

6/6/2008 10:23:13 PM - anonymous

Ehpisians 2:15 says, christ has done away with the law and commandments.I am not sure I would let my fifteen year old daughter get a tattoo.I personally would wait until she was eightteen.I am glade my parents did not let me do something like that at fifteen.If she truely is a servant of christ,she will obey you as a parent and wait.I pray you make the right decision.May the God of love and Grace Bless you all.

6/8/2008 6:56:39 PM - anonymous

I think this whole tattoo thing is more about obedience to God. If God wants it like that then He should have it like that. Too bad if you like it and you think tattoos is a great way of witnessing. Youre not God. Just be obedient like Abraham when he was ready to sacrifice his son. He just followed and did what God asked him of it. Instead of asking a lot of questions. Or saying why Lord and saying that he can instead raise his son to grow up and preach The Word to others. Thats one thing we sometimes as Christians bypass and its obedience. And also is it just me or am I reading that verse wrong. Cause as I recall it the verse goes like this. You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh FOR THE DEAD, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord." Lev 19:28 NKJV According to my understanding the first part before the comma is for the DEAD. Basically its saying dont cut your self for the dead. Then after the COMMA it says NOR TATOO ANY MARKS ON YOU. It does not say do not tattoo any marks on your self for the dead. Its speaking in general DO NOT tattoo your self AT ALL. Even if its witnessing or what even sounds like a great idea. Just be obedient to God and stop trying to do things the way "you" think is best.

6/13/2008 9:57:07 PM - anonymous

Does a tattoo put your salvation in jeopardy? I think not. However i see no evidence that a tattoo is being obedient to Gods will. Malachi 3:6 For I am the Lord, I do not change. Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. That might help with Leviticus 19:28. Tattoos were a pagan ritual many times with names of idols and gods on them. Ezra 10:11 we are to separate our selfs from sin. I find in my walk with the Lord that if the world is going one way and quickly as is the craze to be tattooed, by going the exact opposite way I find much more peace and connection with god then going with the flow of the world. Remember Matt 7:13 Enter by the narrow gate; wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are mamany who go in by it.

6/16/2008 12:30:04 AM - anonymous

You can look good on the outside,but inside you are full of dead mans bones.If we still lived by the old law you could not wear clothes with two kinds of cloth. I know people struggle with tattoos,unfortantly they are still bound by law.People need to not quote scripture out of context,thats what they do with lev 19:28 God bless

6/17/2008 1:03:18 PM - anonymous

There are many people who are always waiting for the next thing to react against, to feel annoyed or disturbed about-and it never takes long before they find it. Religion can open doors or close you off altogether. (Eckhart Tolle) GOD's love for us is so much deeper than any of us can imagine. The bible tries to explain it, but HIS love is so AMAZING (and I'm getting excited just thinking about it) that words cannot describe. I just cannot see HIM loving us any less about a tatoo! Yes, I have 4 tatoos that I think are beautiful. Does GOD love me any less? No! The GOD I serve is a loving and forgiving GOD and looks past those things. I did get my tatoos when I was younger, but I don't live with regrets. Life is a learning experience and I keep moving and don't look back. Nor can I worry about how someone else feels about it especially when I know only GOD's judgement counts. So if you want to be hung up about it, so be it. I'll be praying for you. "Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?"

6/26/2008 9:50:18 AM - anonymous

is there any way that you can provid more bible verses that talk about tatoos?? i have one, but i got one before i knew that it said it in the bible and i dont have enough money to get it removed. so what should i do about it??

6/28/2008 5:34:52 PM - anonymous

My niece has been contemplating having a tattoo and that has sent chills down my spine. We have been brought up to honor the word of God and now because of various perceptions of what is acceptable for christians and what isn't our young people are being miss guided. The word of God NEVER changes. More now than ever we are to test every spirit to know if it is of God. If Christ was tempted by satan using scripture who are we that he will not use some profound reasoning for the acceptance of tattoos or body piercings. Brothers and Sisters be sober, be vigilant, for your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion walketh about seeking whom he may devour.(1 Peter 5:8) Let us stand out from the croud. Let us stand and be counted. We have been bought with a high price so that we can be "Christ like". Before we do anything let us ask ourselves: WHAT WOULD CHRIST HAVE DONE? WHAT PRINCIPLES OR GUIDELINES HAS HE LEFT FOR US IN HIS WORD? Remember we are fearfully and wonderfully made! .......Have a blessed day.

7/4/2008 9:52:57 AM - anonymous

The key idea to remember is that all scripture should be taken in context. We often quote a verse alone to make a point or offer an encouragement. The verses regarding long and short hair were about looking like a man or a woman. A woman is not to present herself as a man, and a man not as a woman. My understanding of the verse about tattoos is about not following pagan rituals in honoring the dead/idols. The piercings were about rituals too. Unless our point is to honor somebody other than our Lord Jesus Christ, where is the harm? Every person is going to have a different story about why they choose to get their ears pierced or a tattoo, the fact of the matter is we all agree to disagree when somebody says they've prayed about it and come up with a different answer than I/you did when we prayed about it. It is ultimately a personal decision one must live with... regrets or no.

7/10/2008 12:11:10 AM - anonymous

I haven't decided what I believe about this particular subject yet, but I am in the process of looking into Truth for myself on the topic. I believe that the religious people of this world will always judge others until Jesus comes back....... whether it's for a tattoo or something else. God looks at our heart and our motives. He wants to keep our hearts and motives pure. It's all about the heart.

7/12/2008 10:49:31 AM - anonymous

Wow, after reading all of the comments, i'm more confused than before... I'm a cross country and track runner and I was contemplating getting eagle wings tatooed on the outside of my ankles(for the verse we shall rise on wings as eagles, we will run and not grow weary, walk and not faint). I have pierced my ear, but i don't know about the tattoo. I agree with God's word never changes, but what about all the other laws that we no longer abide by? 1 Cor. 10:23-24 Paul says "Everything is permissible for me, but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible, but not everything is constructive. No body should seek his own good, but the good of others(this is not the one talking about sexual immorality). I think the person should really pray and ask God what would be best for them. As for me, I want to be in the very center of God's will for my life, and I only want what God wants for me...I do know that God is using my running to prepare me for my ministry. I would like to honor him with the eagle wings, but is that out of my own selfish desires or for His glory alone? Everyone should spend time asking God what He wants for them...and I don't believe any of that mess that you will be going straight to hell for a tattoo or a piercing. God is a forgiving God, and through Jesus, we are enabled to spend eternity with God, no matter what we have done in our past, as long as we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior and we are living for him. Run2Win 1 Cor. 9:24

7/24/2008 4:53:37 PM - anonymous

For me I believe that conviction by the Holy Spirit is personal. Life is a growing process. We are all like children we have to grow and learn for ourselves. There are growth stages in our lives. Of course God speaks to us and all of us one time or another go the other way, but that doesn't mean He loves us any less. The bible says "we ALL fall short to the glory of God". Does it say that he will not love us. Of course not. He says for us to keep our eyes on the prize. People are always making things complicated. WE are to love one another. Instead of showing in words, let's show in action. Many look at the wrongs of others, so they will not have to look at themselves. Every one has a cross to bear, let us carry our crosses and allow the Holy Spirit to deal with us, in Jesus Christ. Remember there's POWER in the blood. Be blessed and enjoy life the right way. God speaks to those who want to listen. It's a personal relationship we are to seek.

7/25/2008 1:39:51 PM - anonymous

Before we become Christians we live in the world as pagans and do what ever is popular. Tattoos are permanent and very costly to remove.When we grow in our new found faith in Christ we want to let people know how much we love Him. Therefore we are limited by these markings. I know of one person who is sold out to Jesus but has a tatoo of satan on his chest. It is hard for him because it reminds him of his ugly past.When he goes out to talk to people about Jesus he has to hide his tattoo.But God is good because He does not see this person as ugly,but a child of His and a new person.

7/26/2008 11:44:53 AM - anonymous

Appearance and attraction is important... so is cleanliness. I agree that my body is the God's temple and like someone said above... You do not paint permanent paint outside of someone's beautiful home the let you live in. I believe it is very important and probably the most important thing in our Lives to remember is to keep God first. Seek first the Kingdom of God and the Holy Spirit will lead you and guide you to do God's will in your life. I have to get up each morning and say "Good Morning to my God and meditate, pray and read with Him before I speak to anyone else or do anything else". This keeps more focused in my walk with Christ than anything. I do not believe Christ condemns those who did this before they knew or were saved but I do believe that once you KNOW... and are SAVED... You have to put off the OLD MAN .. and Put on the NEW MAN... It may not happen all at once for everyone to do this... It has not with me... But I am learning that the closer I draw to Him... the closer He draws to me. The more I seek Him for all I do ....the more I do things right... The more I do things right... the better I feel about myself... PEACE. It is not between all of us and each other. It is between each one of us individually with God. No one can walk your walk with Christ and change your heart and mind to love HIM and to know HIM but YOU! God bless you all with your walk with Christ tatoos, piercings and all and may the Holy Spirit guide your hearts and minds to KNOW how GOD feels about this and not how you yourselves feel... and you base your decision on living your life on the Holy Spirit leading you and guiding you in each and every decision you make in and with God's will for your life.

8/1/2008 8:17:24 AM - anonymous

i am seroiusly confused because i want to get a temporary tattoo that would last a week or maybe a month but as the bible says do not tattoo yourselves this could include real or fake which really confuses me. a tattoo is a tattoo it doesnt matter real or fake and some people say we dont follow the old testament anymore and this brings my confusion even futher.

8/3/2008 2:17:23 PM - anonymous

Scripture is Scripture and a commandment is a commandment. You are most likely feeling this way because the Holy Spirit is dealing with you not to do this. Above all else, please obey His Spirit. He is only looking out for you. Messiah said that if you love Him, obey His commandments. He is the Creator of this world, therefore, He is also the giver of the commandments to Moses upon Mt. Sinai. So, when Messiah said, if you love Me, keep My commandments, He was speaking of all of them, not just the ones we want to keep.

8/11/2008 6:46:29 PM - anonymous

wow, I've reed all those comments and i personally think TATTOOS ARE NOT BAD!!! yes the bible says ' don't tattooed ourselves ' but the bible also says ' do no lie ' and we still lie sin is a sin, maybe tattoos are a sin, we sin EVERYDAY! i have 2 tattoos and want more, i don't believe is wrong but thats just me. God loves us IN EVERY WAY! i did mine being a christian and i still am, i live my live for Christ and only for him, yes i have tattoos so what? he knows it wasent for the bad, it just the way i am and i look. he knows my hear clearly and when i die my body does not go to heaven is my spirit so my tattoos and piercings will be left behind. GOD LOVES US HOW WE ARE , US AS CHRISTIANS SHOULD NOT JUDGE ANYONE IN ANYWAY!!! thank you and of course GOD BLESS YOU ALL.! - i love my tattoos and piercing but not as much i love MY LORD! ;)

8/21/2008 9:15:11 PM - anonymous

Hi All!!! In Leviticus Cahpter 19 God speaks to Moses about "marks on the body". So many good Christians take this out of context. Gods speaks of "cutting yourself for the dead and marking your skins. You have to understand God was talking to the Nation of Israel because they just began to take over Canaan. He did not want them picking up any of their worship practices which included tattooing false gods on your skin. Also study Revelations you will see a lot of references that God will "put His mark on you". I have been thinking about tattoos for years but i wanted them to be faith based. On 8/23/08 I had "Solus Christus" tattooed on my right forearm....big and bold. In Latin it means "Christ Alone". which is one of the five "solas" of the Protestant faith (google "reformation"). I prayed about it for a long time and then i was moved by the Holy Spirit to do it. First of all because I felt that if He could go to the cross and get His hands pierced to save me I could take a 2 hour tattoo to give Him glory. When Christ reappeared to the disciples after His resurrection He proudly showed them His "marks". He received those marks because He loved us so much. i have gotten so much attention and questions about my tattoo that it has already leads to several withnessing situations and it is only the 3rd day i have had it. I've done more witnessing (without even trying) because of questions about my tattoo than I've done this whole year. To me it was a way to confirm to the world who i belong to and a way to give honor to God....he has brought me so far. God is like a parent....ANYTHING you do to bring HIM glory is alright. Whether your a believer that is ok with faith tats or not you can not down someone for doing something to bring Glory to His name. Great subject...i have been reading into this for a whole year. god bless u anyway you receive it!!!!!! Much Love!

8/26/2008 6:13:10 PM - anonymous

Hey there... I'm Derek... Ok first of all... I want to say that I agree with most of what the writer of this article says here... People do judge our appearances... God's laws never change... We do have to be culturally sensitive... But I DO NOT agree with a few things... I'm not angry, just speaking freely... -------------------- *statement 1: "As Christians, we need to avoid doing anything that would cause others to be uncomfortable with us." -------------------- The gospel makes people uncomfortable, and if we are going to live it out truly, we are going to make people uncomfortable sometimes... We are going to challenge them, encourage them, and teach them... Christian or not... We shouldn't worry too much about "not offending" people... Jesus offended tons of people... --------------------- *statement 2: "However, if I dress this way, there will be some people who will never be able to get past the image. There would always be some that would see that "look" and think I must be a criminal or a devil-worshiper. They probably would not listen to a word I had to say." --------------------- There are so many times when punks, skaters, fashion designers, etc. won't give any christian the time of day because they don't dress like them or have no sense of fashion... I think its a good witness to be creative and different... That's our human quality that reflects God the most I think, creativity... We are His creation... We can't live our lives under fear of man's approval, as it says in proverbs... The complete obverse is true as well, that if criminals or devil worshipers saw you dressed all nice and happy or "good" as you called it, they wouldn't listen to you at all... And don't we want to reach them? Show them the light? Shouldn't we give up our images to God and let Him dictate how we should look individually? He gives us the freedom of choice... As long as we glorify Him, we can do whatever we want style-wise... -------------------------- *statement 3: "If our appearance, in any way, presents an obstacle to anyone knowing we are a Christian or allowing us to lead them to Christ, then we have an obligation to set it right." -------------------------- (this one I agree with more than disagree... I'm still trying to figure out my own questions...) I really don't think it matters if anyone "knows" we are a Christian based on looks... Jesus totally taught against that... God also said that Man judges by the outward appearance, but God judges the heart... Implying that judging the heart is what matters... Jesus wasn't beautiful... He was homeless... Barefooted... John the baptist probably smelled like crap, and wore crazy animal skins and ate bugs and stuff... The point is not if someone "knows" we are a Christian or not, the point is if we can share Christ with them... I think it is very possible to share Christ with someone through style, be it evangelical tattoos, clothes, or piercings...

9/11/2008 3:57:46 AM - anonymous

ok look i'm against tatoos sorry guys i just am but if u want to get one go ahead but i hate it when people say well whats wrong with getting one of a bible verse or a cross or a crown of thorns well heres the problem 9 times out of 10 that person is just using God as an excuse to get a tatoo if your going to get a cross get it so when u see people and they ask about your tatoo there is a chance to witness but please don't use God as an excuse by saying well it's a christian tatoo

9/21/2008 4:58:28 PM - anonymous

ok the person who commented on 8/26/2008 at 6:13 says anything you do to bring him glory is alright ...what if i kill a person who is disgracing God is that alright?

9/21/2008 5:01:31 PM - anonymous

the dude above him says maybe tats are a sin so what so is lying but we do it so my question to him he knows getting a tattoo is a sin so why not strive to not commit that sin the bible says for he who knows the good and does not do it sins...think about that

9/21/2008 5:04:01 PM - anonymous

So the two kinds of tattoos that have been addressed are 1. You shouldn't get something that would affect your image. Something that people would make judgements about. 2. A source of witnessing. So i'm just curious as to what people think about tattoos that people get, that aren't visable. Maybe one that a woman would get for her husband, or vice versa. If a tattoo is in a spot that is covered it is not affecting your image or being used as a witnessing tool, do you think that it is alright to get?

9/25/2008 2:03:23 PM - anonymous

My 31 year old daughter has been a Christian since about 8 yrs. old but has been acting strange this last year. She is embellishing on events of her childhood, trying to cause others to dislike her mother, (who taught her of the Lord and loved her so very much), she has now changed her narrow, fairly-hidden strip of fuchia-colored hair by the nape of her neck, to a band that stretches from one ear to the other and wears it up so that it is anything but disreet, she wears clothing that does not fall into the category of modesty by any means, she flipped out so bad a couple of times this last year when her car had some slight trouble...(you'd think she had hit & killed someone or something) and I just noticed today, (as she was wearing a top that was quite low-cut in the back), that she has had an original poem of hers tattooed on her back. I didn't ask what it said or inquire as to how much of her back is covered with the tattoo. It would appear, however, that it covers the whole back. It made me sad, especially considering everything else that has been going on lately. My comment is that, all-in-all, I think she is in inner turmoil and it is being expressed outwardly in several ways....tattoos being one of them. I see it as a sign that something is terribly wrong, spiritually and/or mentally. She knows what the Bible says about tattoos. If there s a question for some as to whether or not it is now ok to get a tattoo, wouldn't it be better to err on the side of obedience? If a Christian gets a tattoo, even though they are well aware of God's words against it, even if there is a matter of doubt about it still being relevant to God, I would ask; "What is the point, anyway?" It draws attention to ourselves, just as the brightly dyed hair does. It reminds me of the youth of today who choose to draw attetion to themselves by wearing their pants' croth at knee-level, or dress in goth style with their hair standing straight up, etc., etc. just to make SURE that people will take a second (or third) look at them. It seems to be "all about them", doesn't it? Where is true respect, admiration, adoration and honor to God in all that?

10/6/2008 8:55:30 PM - anonymous

Thank you for the article. It has me thinking. I have a number of tatoos, many I got before coming to the Lord. However the 3 largest are since coming to Christ 1 being a custom cross. All are not obvious unless I wear shorts and tank top. I had plans to finish color the latest addition in 2 weeks. However I must really think and pray about it, or any additions. Again thank you for the insight.

10/30/2008 9:21:23 AM - anonymous

I am a diciple like everyone else who has chosen to accept the lord in thier heart. I will not lie, and I say I want tattoos. Sometimes what i want isn't what my spirit needs. To me, my spirit is more important. Now, the bible is filled with nothing but the truth. The truth isn't supposed to be pretty and it isn't what we want to hear. We still have to deal with it. The article stated that society changes, but God never does. So, if society says it ok to get tattoos, that's fine. Yeh times change, no arguement there, but we still need to ask ourselves W.W.J.D? Would he wear tattoos if he lived among us today? Until god himself tells me in a vision, which I doubt, tattoos are ok, then I will. The word of God tells me we can't even give the appearance of sin. I'm sorry, but we live in a world that is judgemental. If I attract more friends because of the way I look, rather than wisdom God places in me so be it. Luke 21:15, tells me I don't need tattoos; he gives me a mouth and wisdom, so that no man can resist or contradict his words. Amen?

11/2/2008 2:13:35 AM - anonymous

Good article! Outward appearances have been the bug-bearer in my church life. I have 9 tattoos, 8 from before I was saved and some of them are evil looking as I was into rock music and motorbikes, however I look upon them as my "battle scars" and they show people where God saved me from. I intend (God willing) to have them covered with Christian ink. In this day and age many people have a tattoo and many have piercings, I have always thought it wrong and "vanity" to wear a designer suit costing, well more money than my entire wardrobe put together including my footwear! God showed me this was also judging by outward appearances and I was just as bad as those whom judged me. In summary: God uses us, as we are (some friends quote "stay as you where called" as in circumstance) one of every kind and He will use the punks to reach the unsaved people who are punks, He will use the suited business man to reach the unsaved people who are business men and women... we are a new creation and Jesus saved us and He is concerned with our heart and our mind not what we wear, I have not much money so I buy clothes from charity shops and have my own fashion and that is that -- I do not concern myself with it I just get on with it. On showing cleavage and midriffs, well yes obviously be modestly dressed, we are a temple of the Holy Spirit and showing your cleavage or midriff is not ok not because of "fashion" but because it does scream "sexual immorality" which is an attitude and sin -- not a fashion but the end result does show itself in ones outward appearance not just in low cut tops etc but also in attitude and action. Jesus does not care what we wear but let us keep our eyes on Him and our nose in the Bible and if we are walking with Him dressing jezebel like will not happen as we, well we do not want to nor do we do it.

11/2/2008 2:58:32 AM - anonymous

To the anonymous who's daughter is acting strangely... sounds like she needs some love. We are in the times of great apostasy and many are falling away from Jesus, satan is very real and it trying his best to wreck the church (as in the people not the building). A tattoo does not make a person evil or sin... I fell out with people as they judged by appearance and let Mr nicely dressed get away with sexual immortality just because he was nicely dressed whilst I got in trouble for my outsides? Honouring God is from the heart and mind and soul and body, if people could stop being the fashion police (which works both ways) and start seeing things as Jesus does. A suit does not make a person Holy, only being born-again of the spirit makes a person Holy, praise Jesus! Try speaking to her in love and not judgement, she might be really hurting over something, she might really like her tattoo and see it as honouring God with her body by permanently inking it with a dedication to Him but feel upset she has been judged because if it and then she might walk away... there is NO condemnation in Christ! Tattooed or not, does it really matter what matters is this "To love the Lord our God with all our heart and soul and mind" and to "love one another" this is in attitude and worship, let us not get above ourselves sir, we are ALL sinners and filthy rags made righteous by the blood of Christ Jesus! PRAISE JESUS! I pray you all get it sorted out... it's a relationship NOT a religion. 1 Samuel 16:7 "But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.""

11/2/2008 3:09:39 AM - anonymous

I've placed a comment of here before on what the Lord has revealed to me on my views concerning tattoos. I will say again; I wish there wouldn't be any doubt in my mind about getting tattoos, but I have to be honest with myself. I love tattoos. I love admiring them. I want tattoos on my body because I love the art style. I am an artist myself. I've even seen some of my work on someone else's skin. It is amazing that my work is appreciated like that. Tattoos are not what my spirit needs right now, and we can't forget we are embassadors of the Lord in this strange world who must set an example. I've touched that subject not with my thoughts, but with the Lord's words and his words only. Now, I will share my own thoughts, and mine only. Appearance, I've read some views that say they use tattoos to attract more people for Christ, and I agree we need to attract thier attention in some way. This is just me. I attract a lot more people with my behavior, more than with the talent God has given me. I am probably one of the most happy go-lucky persons you will meet. It freaks and draws people out just how positive I am. We all know where all that comes from, right? I've been stripped to nothing, beatened, betrayed, robbed, and spat on, yet the people react and draw themselves near as to why my very famous smile never bends. They want to know why I am so ripe when everything around me is so rotten? That's when I take the oppurtunity to share that Luke 12:22-33 tells me, "Hakuna Matata!" Our light stands out more than any banner or cross we place on our bodies. Here's a joke, its just a joke. Don't take it personal. Jesus always keeps an eye on his flock, doesn't he? Do you really think he enjoys seeing a cross, or a crown of thorns all over our bodies? Again, its just a joke. If you have any such markings, don't worry just love the Lord and worship him as your savior. Marked or unmarked, he loves us all.

11/4/2008 1:27:34 AM - anonymous

I am soon to be 21 and have personally chosen not to get anymore piercings (other than my ears when I was 4) or tattoos. I don't judge, but I think that if the Bible also says that your body is not your own and you were bought for a price, then that shouldn't be taken so lightly either.

11/10/2008 5:23:36 PM - anonymous

In response to Nov. 2nd, 3:09 am, anonymous: I appreciate some of the helpful responses from some of the writers, but I feel that you are accusing me of being jugemental and unloving, when in fact, you do not know me. Therefore, wouldn't that be a judgement call (or pre-judgement call) on your part? The daughter mentioned is very, very loved by many, many people. I did not imply that she is evil or a sinner because of the tattoos. You say that honoring God is from the heart, mind and body, but the question, then, would be; How are we honoring God by tattooing our body...especially when God's Word tells us not to? You ask if it really matters. Again, God apparently thought it did when He had it put into His Holy Word. You mention that it is a relationship, NOT a religion. Again you presume and are wrong in doing so because we are all about relationship...with each other AND with God! I am sorry that someone apparently had judged you in the past for your appearance. Please, however, do not assume that it is the same in all circumstances. In love, I ask you to guard your words more carefully. And please trust that I am laboring to guard mine, as well.

11/12/2008 9:12:59 AM - anonymous

I have always wondered if it was right or wrong to get tattoos; however, after careful review of this article I have been enlightened and inspired. I know that our body is the temple of God and it should be pure and righteous just like Christ; on the other hand, if a person has tattoos and ask for forgiveness God can use them as a witness to people that I could not normally reach. A persons discrepancy, is Gods key to opening all hearts of men.

11/12/2008 12:41:26 PM - anonymous

Thank you 6/05/08 2:54:12 PM Read acts 15:19-20 concerning gentiles. We are no longer bound by law but saved by his grace. This verse brought me to tears. I for one, will be standing praising God with all my Brothers and Sisters, whether they have tattoos or not! I love them all, above all Jesus .

11/22/2008 3:22:25 PM - anonymous

I have randomly read many of the comments above...Has anyone read REVELATIONS 19:16 ??? Maybe its out of context but I recently received an email questioning whether Jesus himself has a tattoo...It reads...On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. It can clearly be a witnessing tool, if done for the GLORY of God. My son is in a band that some Christians would say sounds like "devil music" has some singing but also screaming...hardcore Christian music...but I feel like it brings them to people who don't know Christ and people that would not ordinarily ever come into a typical church atmosphere...So who is to say whats right or wrong...If people are reaching non-believers by their tattoos, or by music.......................... that sounds like God at work to me... E. Newbern

12/3/2008 9:02:16 PM - anonymous

I am a devout Christian. I have no tattoos but, as a teenager I had my ear pierced. Although now I have long transcended the phase of wearing earrings; the holes still remain to remind me. Saddly enough, I personally see nothing wrong with this diplay of accessories within moderation. Especially with the ever evolving cultures around us ; but who I am to judge? For the most part I was judged more harshly by fellow christians. Thank God that this fad was not a true reflection of my salvation that of which could have hindered my walk with Christ or that the One True Judge would blot my name out for my short-coming.

12/7/2008 1:16:10 PM - anonymous

In interpreting the Bible, remember that text out of context is error. Father God did not want His young, chosen nation, Israel, to fall back into pagan practices of mourning the dead by marking their bodies to appease the pagan deities. Similarly, do not take 1 Corinthians 3:16 out of context. Remember Who has the Greatest mark of all on His thigh: "On his robe and on his thigh he has a name inscribed, King of kings and Lord of lords." -Revelation 19:16 We have liberty in Christ and are under His Grace and if one, doctrinally or otherwise, tries to compel one NOT to get a tattoo then see if that person, who is trying to get you back under the Law has an untrimmed beard or has not cut his/her hair or is wearing any makeup at all or observes God's Holy Sabbath ... afterall, if one is putting himself/herself under one part of the Law; one must follow all of it according to the Word. I would add that if one is considering a tattoo; I would ask these questions of them: 1. Is the potential tattoo any form of worship to pagan gods or evil, i.e., satan? 2. Are you doing it to glorify yourself or God? 3. Essentially, what is your motive behind getting a tattoo? All that being said, when I received His Holy Spirit, I was excited to evangelize for Him. To that end, after much artistic study and prayer, I designed a 3-point cross with the words "King of kings" written through the cross and had it tattood on my upper right shoulder. Living in FL and being a beach person, I cannot tell you how many witnessing opportunities this tattoo has offered me and His Holy Spirit that indwells me. To that end, I say: Hallelujah! + Maranatha!

12/10/2008 12:21:22 PM - anonymous

Yeah, I really appreciate this article. It was left open, and not harsh towards either side. I myself have two tattoos, and are both christian based... I believe whole heartadly that while our goal is to minister to everyone, our appearance should generally appeal to those whom we are more "geared to" evangelize to. Tattoos, or no tattoos should be based solely on the area of your ministry.

12/17/2008 11:16:25 PM - anonymous

It was stated above that since we have becme Christians that the Old law has gone away and the New one has begun under God's grace and that if anyone wanted to get a tatoo then we would be covered by the grace of God - this may be true but I still believe that does not give us the right to break these laws - if that would be then the Ten Comandments would not be any good today either but we as Christians still fight for these to be displayed in public - As mentioned befor the Spirit will not go against the Word of God so I too do not believe that it is right to get tatoo's weather Christian based or not - I have not read anywhere in the Word of God where Paul, Peter or any of the other Apostles had to have any kind of tatoo to witnesss to the different cultures they faced - their actions spoke for them - if you want to be different then let your actions speak for God

12/19/2008 7:11:43 AM - anonymous

Would you take a can of spray paint and mark the outside of a Church (Temple )? Is your body a Temple of God? We are not talking about birthmarks, which by the way are placed by the Almighty. I'm sure most will agree that defiling a Church (Temple) with images is an insult to GOD.

12/28/2008 12:10:11 PM - anonymous

I have 3 tattoo's & I truly don't believe that they are an insult to God. Since some people feel that tattoo's are bad because the Bible says not to defile the Temple of God, I would like to know how those people feel about gluttony or people that smoke or anybody else that does something to defile the Temple of God. To me, my tattoo's are representative of who I am & who/what I care the most about. I honestly don't think that God will punish me for that.

1/7/2009 10:45:14 PM - anonymous

Hey all. I'm a youth pastor and a student recently asked me if Christians may have tattoos or not, and so I read the article and all the responses posted so far. I really appreciated what Derek (comment: 9/11/2008 3:57:46 am--anonymous) had to say about the article itself, basically that Jesus and the cross are offensive to the world and therefore it is starting us on a slippery slope to say that: "As Christians, we need to avoid doing anything that would cause others to be uncomfortable with us." Unfortunately the author of the article didn't talk too much about the Leviticus passage, which is what most people have been fighting over it seems. Basically I think that looking at the context of Leviticus (written to a people who are going to take over a land filled with pagans) and the context around this specific admonition (pagans would inscribe images of their gods or the names of deceased loved ones on themselves as a cultic practice) I don't really think that this admonition is binding on Christians today. If you disagree with this conclusion because you think that all OT law IS binding on Christians today, I would ask whether or not you follow the advice from the verse immediately preceding the one in question (Leviticus 19:28)--do you trim your side burns or 'mar' the edges of your beard? Or for that matter do you put to death anyone who commits adultery (Leviticu 20:10)? or when (and if) you go hunting do you immediately pour out the animal's blood and cover it with earth (Leviticus 17:13)? The fact is that almost all of us, as Christians, have come to believe that not all of the OT law is binding on us today. I think the admonition concerning tattoos is one such law. I am not saying that tattoos are fine and dandy period. I resonate deeply with the author of the post from 12/10/2008 12:21:22 pm in questioning motivations for tattoos. If your motivation is to simply draw attention to yourself, you probably should think and pray about this a little more. I have some other thoughts, but for brevity's sake I'll just share one more. This is not so much on the Biblical side of things, but more on the practical/logical side of things. Tattoos are permanent and bear permanent consequences. If you are seriously thinking about getting a tattoo I would suggest (in all seriousness) just sitting with your idea (and praying about it) for at least 3 or 4 years. If you still love your idea, then maybe you should go for it. But probably you will find your tastes have changed substantially just within that short time span. The fact is, if you get a tattoo, you will have it for not just three or four years, but the rest of your life! Think of how much your tastes might change in that span of years?! These are some of my thoughts--if you disagree, great. I think a lot of people who have posted are coming from different faith traditions that interpret the Bible differently. That is a hard issue to deal with--but I respect you all for facing it anyway. Thanks for reading, God bless you.

1/8/2009 7:08:04 PM - anonymous

Appearances do matter but, it also depends on the situation and person. What God really cares about is what is going on in my heart. Circumcision is a good thing. It reminds me that I am set aside for God but, it could aslo be bad if I miss the spiritual aspect to it and count myself more holy than a new born christian who hasn't been circumcised. See what I'm sayin? The true you is what is on the inside.

2/5/2009 5:06:03 PM - anonymous

Thank you for elaborating on that subject,it provided clarity for me.

2/10/2009 1:14:58 AM - anonymous

what prompt me to look up 1 Corinthians 11 is that my daughter just got another tattoo with letters about 3" high on her lower back. we are a christian family but she is 19 and live out side the home. How can a person knowing GOD deface his temple (our bodies), and not feel any remorse? Yes I have tattoos but I got them when I was walking in the world. If I could I would have them removed.

2/27/2009 2:33:15 AM - anonymous

I have sveral tattoos that i have recieved before and after i came to Christ. I have been trying to figure out if they are "ok" to continue to get for some time now. This article and many others all seem to come to the same conclusion. Ask God. Simple as that. Let the Holy Spirit convict you as he sees fit for each person. Thank you for this article. God Bless.

3/4/2009 2:17:11 PM - anonymous

I think that tattoos are perfectly acceptable as long as they're not vulgar or over the top. For example, the snake man, that's just not okay. but getting a belly button pierced and a little dragonfly on your ankle isn't that big of a deal and i think you can talk/learn/listen about God just the same. Ultimitely it is up to you, but God won't be mad. You're not destroying "his temple" just adding some pizzazz to it :)

3/5/2009 2:35:07 PM - taylor.ross11, Member of Delve into Jesus since 3/5/2009

We are working on a debate at our church concerning body piercings and tattoos. Reading this helped my team a lot thanks! selinsgrove church of christ.

3/11/2009 7:53:15 PM - anonymous

What happens whith Tattooed Non-believers? They won't feel comfortable with a preppy looking guy on Hollister shirts. just think about it. Tattoos are a great way for bringing the gospel God still loves us and looks into our Hearts. blessings

3/16/2009 5:09:09 AM - anonymous

Lets all put graffiti on our bodies. Yes, that sounds intelligent?

3/22/2009 9:51:27 PM - anonymous

Being a non-tattooed person I have studied this subject for some time (years) and came to the conclusion that is not within God's will. For anyone. I think the arguments made for them being okay are truly a justification of what the individual desires or wants. It becomes a selfish act as opposed to an act of obedience or submission to God. No different than me justifying why I may want a new car. The desire for the car may very well be greed which is sin; so it is still wrong even though the Bible doesn't mention cars. I have to recognize it as sin, though. Most people I know who have them get very defensive about them when the subject of Christianity is brought up. That alone should be a warning and a wake up call. Even reviewing some of the threads here suggests the same. To the pastor who posted on 1/8/09....trying to dismiss Leviticus (or any O.T. commands) in the message above as you did places you are on a very slippery slope. While I sin daily, without tattoos, I know having them won't bring me closer to God. In the end that is what we are required to do, bring ourselves closer to God, then we can worry about witnessing. I think the passage of Leviticus should be read clearly, carefully and with detail. There are two commands regarding the cutting of the skin and marks. While the pastor may suggest that portions of the O.T. are not applicable today, the argument is hollow. Following your logic we (you, me or anyone else) are free to decide which portion is applicable to us and which isn't. I don't believe that is what God intended either. Whether I adhere to the law(s) Pastor does not make the law valid or invalid. It simply means whether I have sinned or not sinned. Sin is transgression of the law. Paul spoke that in the N.T. For he would not have known sin had he not known the law. So Pastor you have a big dilemma, Paul's message were written have Christ was crucified, yet he acknowledged the law. The argument "question the person condemning the act to see if they obey all the laws" (or one similar) that some try to make is errant and dangerous. No one I know, including myself, suggest we are sin free, but it doesn't stop us from acknowledging sin. To use their argument is to say that a prostitute can't condemn the act of murder. Sorry, they are both sins, but because its a prostitue that says it is a sin to murder doesn't negate the fact that murder is sin. Some where in the above posts, a writer made an interesting comment...God knew what the 21st century was going to be like, He is the same yesterday, today and forever. I think we are living in an age and time where we are afraid to confront the wrongs that society has said is "okay". I admit before each of you that I sin daily and require repentance daily, but I recognize it. Nor do I defend it. However, I stand not in judgment of anyone, for that is God's alone. But suggesting that cutting ourselves, making marks on ourselves or anything similar are acts of obedience to God is stretching the bounds of the Bible. I personally think if any deeply devoted Christian were to study the origin and practice of tattooing thoroughly they would run from it Just the views from a sinner like all others. Several people have commented that God looks into the heart and not the outer appearance...that is true and that is what should wake us up. He knows the depths with which we will go to justify our actions, he pierces our heart and searches us to find the intent that we often mask even from ourselves in the form of justifications. Please study this subject with truly open hearts. Know why God said No to begin with. Know why that we are still required to honor the law, but no longer under the punishment of the law. Christ's blood was shed to save the entire world, tattooed or not, but obedience is what is required and expected from God. Ignoring His laws and commandments is not obedience. To all be blessed, in Christ's name.

4/7/2009 3:47:11 PM - anonymous

I'm a 35 year old student of holy gospel truth who embraces the gospel as the absolute truth and word of God. To my christian brothers and sisters, I read each and every single article and after reading them all, the main messages I read from many people justifying getting tattoos was that it was okay because: 1. Its okay if I am going to honor god and witness or evangelize someone. 2. Its okay because God looks at the heart and not the exterior. 3. Its okay if I pray & the Holy Spirit tells in my prayer to get a tattoo. 4. Its okay if I get a small inconspicuous tattoo with a faith based message. 5. Its okay if I get a tattoo since its not a sin, since God will still love me. 6. Its okay because the old testament isn't binding on us anymore. 7. Its okay if I glorify God and not glorify myself with my tattoo. 8. Its okay because it doesn't really affect my image, nor should it matter. 9. Its okay, and we should accept each other regardless of how we look. 10. Finally best of all, Its okay because, "I love tattoos. I love admiring them. I want tattoos on my body because I love the art style. I am an artist myself." --"I attract a lot more people with my behavior, more than with the talent God has given me." Brother and sisters, I do not profess to be a scholar of the bible, a priest, a pastor, philosopher nor theologian, but rather a humble servant of the lord who lives in sin and seeks the truth from scripture. Most of the justifications of getting a tattoo from these threads were meant with the intention to evangelize others with their tattoos. I am firm on scripture as it holds this truth about tattoos. Lev 18: vs 3 & 4- (NIV) says "Do not follow their practices. 4 You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the LORD your God. 5 Keep my decrees and laws, for the man who obeys them will live by them. I am the LORD." This passage below in Leviticus, including the surrounding text, is specifically dealing with the pagan religious rituals of the people living around the Israelites. Gods desire is to set his people apart from other cultures. Let's ask ourselves why? Lev 19: vs 28- (NIV) " 'Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD. ( Notice hear that God does not specify what kind of tattoo, faith based or not.. He specifically indicates DO NOT PUT For some Christians some areas of our faith are weak and in some we are strong. Each person is accountable to Christ: "... each of us will give an account of himself to God. But for me, the hardest part about being a christian is accepting gods law as an absolute, and not as a recommendation, not as a direction but rather a specific instruction. His laws and decrees here in particular of leviticus are not asking us to pick and choose which ones we like, but more so being extremely specific by saying "DO NOT" and says "YOU MUST".. I don't see where the confusion lies or what would make anyone deviate from such specific instruction if they are seeking the truth and still pondering whether or not to apply a tattoo on your body. Your body is not a canvass or paper to receive permanent ink. It belongs to GOD your creator, not you.. Many of you explained that getting a tattoo was okay because as a Christian you can communicate Gods character to the world and obtain the chance of evangelizing. But how can you even begin by evangelizing others when you can't even evangelize yourself by obeying basic rudimentary scripture which expressly and clearly says DO NOT and MUST NOT... No where in the scriptures have I read that to evangelize you should advertise and get a tattoo on you body that will make people curious about your faith and have the opportunity to witness or evangelize. Isn't it because our depraved minds as Christians that we turn to the bible in the first place. Then when we read the truth , we do not want to embrace it for our own convenience. Why? Brothers and sisters we can evangelize in so many other ways as Jesus and his disciples have done. As millions without tattoos have done by sharing the gospel. A tattoo observed on your body by others should not be a primary way or catalyst to evangelize. The key point of Leviticus 19:28 is: God did not want his people to be idolatrous. The emphatic theme of Leviticus is God calling his people to holiness. Since tattooing was a sign of ancient pagans as a sign of ownership and devotion to their gods.. God made it very clear not to be engaged in this idolatrous behavior... Scripture also tells us the following: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV) Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 -you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. Brothers and sisters how many times do we fade away and feel hurt and pain because our friends and family tells us our truths. For me, they are unbearable to hear and absorb, but after a few days of reflection I realize that most people who rebuke me are the ones who love me, just as God loves you. Many times Christians base their moral judgments on opinions, society evolutions and personal dislikes, rather than the Word of God. It is better to let our relationship with Christ and his Word regulate our convictions. Do not be mistaken and and be deceived by saying to yourself that it's okay and justified to get a tattoo when in fact scripture tells us not to. Example: Why, when you drive do most of you stop on a red light? We do have a choice.. We can run the red light and risk hurting ourselves in a crash or simply stop and obey mans law so we prevent simultaneously an accident and avoid getting an expensive ticket..Right? So why wouldn't you obey Gods decree when he says you "DO NOT..put tattoo marks on yourself s". You are defiling your beautiful body that God gave you.. You were certainly not born with a tattoo. Another valid point to ponder is that GOD of course is sovereign creator, designer and artist himself of you and this universe. Do you not think that if he wanted you to evangelize other people by having tattoos drawn on your body, he would have provided clear instruction through scripture that doing so was suggested, recommended or instructed as his command. And he did not!!!!... I haven't heard or read anything of such evidence from scripture. Jesus however in the NT does affirm his disciples how to evangelize and spread the word of the gospel and it doesn't speak of tattoos as a body medium. In short, I believe this belief of tattooing christian art or messages on your body is mans shortcomings and depravity in a modern 21st century world attempting to find new ways to adapt and evolve with today's diverse society. We can share the lords message through email, hardcover holy bible, internet, and best of all orally and one to one bible study, but not necessarily through a medium of tattoo invitation using your sacred body as a bill board that says: check me out, I'm a christian with nice artwork on my skin, allow me to introduce myself and evangelize you. God bless everyone, Student of gospel truth

4/11/2009 5:25:13 AM - Rick-Apologist, Member of Delve into Jesus since 4/11/2009

i know many Christians that have tattoos and piercings and they think it not wrong, i don't have any tattoos or piercings because it is distinctly written in the bible that we temples of the holy spirit and not to tattoo and pierce our bodies. So if God commands us in the bible not to do something then why do these so called "Christians" go against Gods Will for us

4/27/2009 12:47:28 PM - anonymous

There are some Christian today that wears tattoos and pierce their bodies even though the God says we should not. Our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and we should not use our bodies in that form. If God says do not, I believe that do not means do not. Why do we seek to discredit and add to God's Word? What... God don't know what He is talking about? When God says "do not" He means do not. God says... do not lie, do not steal, do not kill and He meant exactly that. So, if He says, do not tattoo, do not pierce our bodies, do not.... etc. let's keep it that way, okay! Do not means do not. Thank you.

5/14/2009 11:26:25 PM - anonymous

As far as the Christians who are considering their first tattoo, I think this article is a clear description of our biblical teachings, by discouraging it for the Glory of God and His temple; however those Christians who have tattoos should never be judged by other Christians. All fall short of the Glory of God and who are we to judge others as if we are blameless. It breaks my heart that Christians can be more judgmental than the "world", and it reflects on all Christians. I think once God has delivered us from our sins, we can reach others who has experienced the same situations and we can minister to them without being judgmental.

6/8/2009 6:54:57 PM - anonymous

In Leviticus it says "Do not tattoo your bodies or cut yourself for the dead." Sounds pretty explicit to me.

6/17/2009 3:34:58 PM - anonymous

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