I was once again asked the question, what does the bible say about tattoos? And as usual I responded back with the question, why? The young man explained that he had been told that if he was going to be a Christian he could not get a tattoo (mark his body). As the nice guy I am I quickly pulled out “The Book” and showed him what God’s word says specifically about tattoos. Boy was he surprised when I showed him Leviticus 19:28. He thought that the person that told him was a total nut case (in his words). Well maybe they were, lets look further.
But knowing me I couldn’t let it go. I asked him the read a few passages above and below Leviticus 19:28.
“26 “Do not eat meat that has not been drained of its blood.
“Do not practice fortune-telling or witchcraft.
27 “Do not trim off the hair on your temples or trim your beards.
28 “Do not cut your bodies for the dead, and do not mark your skin with tattoos. I am the Lord.
29 “Do not defile your daughter by making her a prostitute, or the land will be filled with prostitution and wickedness.
30 “Keep my Sabbath days of rest, and show reverence toward my sanctuary. I am the Lord.
31 “Do not defile yourselves by turning to mediums or to those who consult the spirits of the dead. I am the Lord your God.
32 “Stand up in the presence of the elderly, and show respect for the aged. Fear your God. I am the Lord.”
After he read, I asked him if he understood what was written and he said yes. Prompting me to ask him to explain. He stated, “These appear to be rules that God gave us to live by and that we shouldn’t break any of them. But if I’m not to break God’s rules shouldn’t I know them?, …for the most part I’d never heard of these rules before. So what gives?” And I cheerfully replied, “Now that’s a good question”.
I dug deeper with the lad and asked him if his father was clean-shaven and of course he said without hesitation, “Yes”. So I asked him to read verse 27 and if he would kindly explain it to me. He was completely speechless. Not believing what he had just read, he asked if it was a sin to shave and I answered (short answer), “If you lived as a Jewish man back then”.
Then I followed with the question, How many ear piecing are OK? One, Two or Six! A hole in the ear is a hole in the ear. And he agreed that putting a hole in your ear is a form of marking the body. He eagerly jumped in stating that both his mother and grandmother had pierced ears. So what’s my point?
The point that I was making to the young man was this. First, we need to understand how to read scripture. Second, we must realize the; When and Why it was written. That means keeping it in the context of its original purpose. And third, finding how to applies to our lives today.
The passages we read were specific laws for those times. They were specifically given to the Israelites to help separate them from the practices and superstitions of the heathens of that region in those days. Not to impose unnecessary rules for the sake of control.
So as I said as the third point, how do you apply these passages to our lives? Easy, we are to refrain from those activities that would associate us with pagan activities. Let me explain further, in Jesus’ day it was common for men to have long hair. Just fifty years ago if a man had long hair he was marked as an anti-American, draft dodging, drug freak. And guess what? That was a pretty accurate description for most the part. Yet today hair length is pretty much irrelevant as long as it does not effect ones job or safety. POINT: Cultural differences and pagan practices very through out time and the world.
Look at 1 Corinthians 11:5-6, Paul urged the church to enforce a new law, the wearing of head coverings on their women. Think for just a moment, women do not typically cover their heads today, do they? Is that law void now? The reason women were required to cover their heads (short answer) was to separate them from the temple prostitutes of that community in that time period. I hope we don’t have temple prostitutes running around today.
Lets get to the root of the question? Is it a sin to have a tattoo? I do not have any tattoos, yet that does not make any difference to whether it is a sin or not. So before I answer, lets look at some more scripture for a deeper understanding of God’s desire for His children.
1 Corinthians 3:16-18, 16 Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
18 Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world’s standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise.
Romans 6:12-14, 12 Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. 13 Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. 14 Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God’s grace.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20, 19 Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, 20 for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.
After reading these scriptures we can clearly see that God does not desire us to do anything that would harm the body or give the appearance of sin. God’s temple is holy (set apart) and we are that temple. Does that mean we shouldn’t get a tattoo? Based on all this and Leviticus in context, I believe that is yes. But (BIG BUT) wait there is more to this.
What about the person that has a pagan symbol on their person and now is a child of God. Should they leave the mark, remove it or ink over it (changing the design)? If it’s OK to remove or cover it, then it’s OK to get another tattoo. Sin is sin! Damaging the body is damaging the body.
Think about this, keeping the holy (set apart) thing in context also means that if we consume; Twinkies, cigarettes, alcohol, soda beverages, and yes even three musketeers, or any other product filled with dyes, preservatives and other unnatural byproducts; we are just as guilty of harming the temple.
Please don’t get the wrong idea; I do not encourage or endorse the practice of tattooing. But if a person has one, I, just a Christ must look at the persons heart. I do not know their circumstances or level of spiritual wisdom (milk or solid food) to pass judgment on their appearance alone.
So what does this all mean? I pray that the Grace of God will forgive my short sightedness and that His Grace will suffice. If you have a tattoo, you have a tattoo. You cannot change that. If you are planning to getting a tattoo, that is between you and God. If you are a believer, take some serious time to pray and ask for His direction and wisdom on the subject. I assure you He will open your eyes to His desires if you allow Him too.
And no, a tattoo in itself does not separate you from God. Just remember, we are to be in the world not of it.
Grace and peace to you.
Monday, 12. May 2008
I like how you word this, but it still leaves the decision in the hands of the reader. It is a sin period all you’ve done is help people justify what they want to do. Shame on you, seriously
Monday, 12. May 2008
Just John, I concur, Larry is giving people excuses to sin with what they think is biblical approval (justification). He will one day answer for his words.
Monday, 12. May 2008
I think both of the responses show some ignorance. The Bible says as much about making marks upon yourself (the NLT translates it as tattoos) as it does about not shaving your beard. It says 5 times more about not eating pork. Hermenuetically speaking (that is the art and science of interpreting scripture) the Levitical laws were abolished when Christ sacrificed himself. The laws of Israel are not the Laws of the New Testament Church, our law is Christ. For example New Testament people did not have to be circumcised like the Hebrews did(which in fact is cutting your flesh.) Paul says its better to be circumcised of heart than flesh. The temple, whether it was a perishable tabernacle or a grandiose temple in the 1 century, it doesnt matter to God. He dwelt in it, the same way with our hearts. Our flesh is unimportant, our lifestyle is the key to pleasing God. So as for your Just John shame on you for your judgmental attitude toward something that you disagree with on a personal level. And for you Ricky, please for the sake of people being misled by Christians that preach a gospel with rules superimposed by human standards that were never purposed by God you too will answer for your words one day.
For those of you getting a tattoo ask, what does it benefit?
Why change your body?
How will it affect my future, including my future ministry towards brothers and sister as well as unbelievers?
And please know the scriptures before writing things about them. twinkies are not evil, cigarettes are probably not evil (they are gross but that is a different topic) tattoos are not evil. None of those things are listed or even implied in the Bible. Instead of wondering who else we can nail new rules on lets think about how to serve, how to better people for Christ’s sake. If your heart motivation in getting a tattoo is right, tattoo away.
Monday, 12. May 2008
Just John and Ricky L, by your two post you have just drawn the line for those that can come to Christ. I have ink on both of my arms. Does that mean that I cannot come to the Father?
God meets (accepts) us where we are in life. I had gotten the tattoos when I was 18 years old, but I don’t regret them, they are a part of me. That doesn’t mean that I’m gonna run out and get more.
Again it all goes back to one’s spiritual maturity. Having a tattoo or getting a tattoo is not necessarily a sin. However, if you are a mature Christian and or cause another believer to fall, due to your actions, then God says that you will answer for it.
Study God’s word, seek His wisdom and (if you allow) He will guide your desires.
God bless
Monday, 12. May 2008
Everyone, I’m a tad confused. I like my tattoo of my master Yoda and if you’ve seen my figure twinkies and ho ho’s also make my list of indulgences. I also love the Simpsons, does this have any effect, good or bad? Do you feel that I can make the grade. To show my great devotion for God I even placed Him and the Holy counsel across my back. And Hermenuetically speaking (Ricky see Mikes post for definition) God will look upon my heart and see that my actions were not in vain, but out of PURE love for him. Everything else is water under the bridge.
Just John, I don’t want to leave you out dude’O. I hope you’ve kept all the laws (dotin’ the i’s and crossin’ the t’s) Because you bound yourself to that standard.
May you all find the peace and joy that comes from Christ Jesus.
Live it, read it, breathe it
By the way I just saw the a sinning twinkie down the street heading south to your church. RUN!!!!
Monday, 12. May 2008
Ricky & Just John, I am appalled at your statements, look to God His word and reflect in the mirror gentlemen. I promise you this, the way you speak yells loudly your lack of understanding and your ignorance (or arrogance, maybe both). I seldom become upset and you two have done it. Don’t be pleased, by saddened.
I’m sure you’ve caused countless children of God to stumble in their faith. While prevent even more from coming to know the living Lord. Repent please and submit yourselves to the Lord.
Tuesday, 13. May 2008
JJ, your an idiot, and I say this as loving as one can. Wake up from your sleep.
Rick, your right Larry will one day answer for every word he has thought and spoke, but so will you. And from the looks of things I’d much rather be in Larry’s shoes. No that I could ever fill them, but I know God has a very special place for this man.
Mike, are you not also being somewhat narrow-minded by expressing your understanding of scripture as absolute. Not that I don’t agree with you for the most part (I’m to new to argue with anyone). It just seems like your a bit harsh, lacking in love and patience for those two others mentioned above. Extend them the same grace that God has given to all of us. They just might learn to understand
Jim, well your Jimmy. Hi!
Jedi 12, your just a crazy God follower and it’s cool to see. Thanks for the genuine heart of laughter.
Beverly, you are always so patient, I want to be more like you in your appearance on this blog. Certainly a woman of God.
Me, I can’t thank all of you enough for helping me see that Christianity is not a simple formula or a list of do’s and don’t. And that none of us have it all nailed down perfectly. We all will have differences and that’s what makes the body so beautiful (Larry point). As Larry also pointed out in Justified by our sins, it’s going to be messy and I am very thankful for that. With my history as some of you know, messy is an understatement.
Yes I have accepted Christ and a special thanks to you Larry for being patient and listening. You didn’t need to, there was nothing for you to gain from it, yet you did. I hope someday to come to Arizona and visit with you and your church family.
And a very special shout out to Joe Joe of Miami (Florida that is) for sharing your life-story (witness) with me. I can only be me and that’s enough for God. My father asked me if I would do it all over again (life as I had it before) and I said yes, because it was the only path (as horrific as it was) that I found Christ on.
I praise God for giving up His son for me
Please be patient as I learn how to live my life for Christ at the age of 44. I foresee some real growing pains.
Tuesday, 13. May 2008
ex:HimerusStar, welcome home I’m glad we kept the light on for you. My encouragement for you is to never forget where you’ve been and tell your story often. And last but not least God loves you and always has, you just didn’t realize it for awhile.
God Bless
Tuesday, 13. May 2008
Ex Him,
So glad your an “ex” now. You have made this such an amazing day for me (sounds selfish), but you’ve always touched my heart in a special way. You are such a gift, such a blessing to my life and I don’t even know you all that well. It IS a reward, believe it or not, to seek someone out, share the good news and see God change and mold them into who they were always meant to be. It helps us “so called” mature Christians feel the power of the Spirit once again alive and working. It needs to be continuous in our lives. I thank the Lord for you and I will continue to pray for you in your new walk with Him. I’m so excited for you!
That would be awesome if you could visit us someday!
Tuesday, 13. May 2008
Welcome to our awkward little family Ex: H. That is so cool. Keep your head up sometimes the road ahead will get tricky I say this from personal experiences. Have a good day and have FUN on your new walk. God Bless
Thursday, 15. May 2008
ex:Him This is such good news. I am so happy for you. And you are right there will be growing pains but as with every pain in life it will soon ease. But remember,as Larry is always saying, just because you’ve accepted Christ doesn’t mean life will be a bowl of cherries. There will always be some pits (ok maybe he never put it quite like that). But we must accept the good with the bad in order to mature in our spirituality. I hope you will continue to talk with us and know that we are all here to help you if you need it. WELCOME!!!!
Thursday, 14. August 2008
I became a christian later in life & I have tatoos from my misguided youth ( i call them the scars of the old man). but tell me did this stop the Lord from loving me and showing me his mercy? heavens no… he took me just the way i am.
Does this make me any less of a christian in the Lords eyes? because when i was saved they didn’t disapear.. No.
For those who say different, i say ‘let he who is without sin cast the first stone.’
Thursday, 14. August 2008
Bill, well worded, thanks for sharing with all of us. Be warned, I have plenty of stones to throw, you should see the mountainous pile I’ve collected over the years from people slinging them at me. But instead of throwing back I’ve learned to keep them. lol
Just doing my part in keeping the stones off the street. Do you have any idea how much damage a loose stone can cause in the wrong hands.
I welcome you and look forward to a great conversation.
peace-Out, Larry
Thursday, 21. August 2008
Larry.. thanks for your kind words, collecting stones isn’t a past-time of mine. people chuck em’ they bruise for a while, but the bruises always fade. picking up a stone to throw it back is like cocking a gun..if you use it its effects are deadly!, and permanent.
my response was that the people of the early threads of this topic above who may/ may not call themselves christians, by writing their comments are sinning, they’re being judgemental.
the bible says we should live in the world but not of it.
I used to live of the world…but now i have a different view of after the Lord showed his grace and mercy upon me. but it does not mean that i become judgemental of others with tattoos it gives me a common ground for introduction to talk about the gospel. same as a saved person who used to be an alchoholic can speak to and understand the rational behind those who are practicing alchoholics.