Tattoo or Taboo?

    Ok!  Here Goes.  I'm diving right in to what is a very sensitive and controversial subject, even among my own family members.  The question is: should christians get tattoos?

    Let me preface my remarks here.  This is a blog featuring my humble opinions and is not meant to cast judgement one way or another on the decisions of others who have tattoos.  This post is mainly meant to help others who are counseling kids, friends, or relatives about this issue or are struggling with the decision themselves.  

    The Bible says in Leviticus 19:28, "Do not cut your bodies for the dead, and do not mark your skin with tattoos. I am the Lord."  It is important to point out, however, that the context of this verse is toward the Israelites not participating in pagan religious rituals being practiced by the people groups around them, thus leading them into idolatry.  It's interesting that the verses before this forbid eating un-kosher meats and cutting the hair of ones temples.  Most anti-tattoo folks have no problem with either of these practices.  Ha!

    The only scriptural way to evaluate this issue is as explained in Romans 14, as a disputable matter.  God has given us a means to judge our individual motives and weigh our decisions in life.  Romans 14:23 states, "...everything that does not come from faith is sin."   So I think the best way to deal with the idea of tattoos is to ask what is right for you and those you are in authority over based on faith and your relationship with God.  Let others do the same.  

    As you evaluate your own heart about this decision you may want to take a brief self-inventory:

1.  Does my conscience convict me over this?  

2.  If I don't have the freedom of conscience myself, am I judging others unfairly who do?

3.  Will my actions cause a weaker brother or sister ( or future child) to stumble due to my influence?

4.  Do I want this tattoo in order to tease or entice sexually those to whom I am not married?

5.  Do I want this tattoo because of an image I want to project that does not bring glory to God?  Who am I copying?  

6.  Do I want this tattoo because of rebelliousness in my heart?  Is it "anti" anything?

7.  Is this the best way for me to spend my money?  

8.  Can my tattoo bring honor to God?  Will it help my witness?  

Will I still be glad I have it when I'm older and my body changes?

9.  Do those in authority over me give their blessing?  Will my future mate be glad I have it?

10.  Will my tattoo harm my professional image in the future?  Is it in a location that let's me cover it if desired?  Will is close doors or open them?

Many friends I know with tattoos use an image that expresses their love for The Lord.  Others got their tattoo to commemorate a special event or loved one.  Others just wanted to express their individuality with beautiful artwork.  If your desire for a tattoo can pass the test of conscience and wisdom and submission, then I can not find a biblical reason to discourage you.  Just remember to use a reputable artist who practices a safe and sterile application.  And, be ready to live with it as long as you live.  Be careful...

Comments

[Margie]

Love this.
Last summer we were at the pool and my oldest daughter was very intrigued by a tough looking guys' very large tattoo of a cross in the middle of his back. She asked him all sorts of questions, like how he got it, if it would ever come off, if it hurt, etc. (I mainly had him talk about how much it hurt because admittedly, I was trying to discourage her from ever wanting one.) After she was finished with the interrogation she just shrugged and stated, "Well, at least it's Jesus." :D

[Lori frank]

Margie! So cute! What a teachable moment. Sounds like she has a great head on her shoulders. Thanks for sharing. ;)

[Sheri Byers]

I appreciate your opinions on controversial issues so much Lori. I thought the one about Christians and alcohol hit the nail on the head in every way, and you've done it again with this one. What a wise woman you are and I'm so thankful for your boldness in taking up these controversial issues. I know that they help so many people. I will pass this along to my 21 year old daughter who is in college and wants a "Philipians 4:13" tattoo on her foot. I tell her that as long as she we support her (and we do while she's in college) that she cannot get one. This blog has helped me have peace about whatever she decides later on and maybe help her to make the right decision. Again, thank you.

[Lori frank]

Sheri, I'm right there with you doing the mom thing with this issue. Love wrestling it out together. Glad my posts have been helpful. Thanks for commenting. <3

[Julie Morris]

I have struggle with this in my own family. My son now has two-a cross and the Chi Ro symbol from Constantine shield. I appreciate his love of Christ but have struggled with forever tattoos. We asked our children to wait till they were adults. We are grateful that they honored this.
Great thoughts. Thank you for this. I could have used this years ago. Keep up the good work for Christ. It is greatly appreciate by the ladies of your church.

[Lori frank]

Thank you Julie. The forever aspect is well worth your concern. Thanks for the comments. We moms just want the best for our kids. :)

[Megan Lindley]

Good word, Lori! I have 9 tattoos, most of which I would remove if I could, but I knew it all in my late teens and twenties!
I would also add, if you do get a tattoo, don't put it anywhere on your body that stretches. Even butterflies and roses can look worn out and haggard. ;)

[Lori Frank]

Megan, You are a treasure. I love the trophy of grace you have become! I LOL'd about the stretchy tats! Thanks for your comments and for just being YOU!

[Words4FaithPeep]

We find your musings thoughty, thoughtful, and well-scribed. A young Latin woman came to Connect Group with a recently retired serviceman a few years ago. Both were well adorned with tats, one of which colored her calf with the symbol of an Aztec god we recognized. As it turned out, the lesson from Corinthians included a segment on honoring idols and other gods. They made an exit before we finished, obviously upset. That was the last we saw of them, but we had no intention to offend. We made one other point that may be a worthy addition to this conversation. Pride drives many choices like whether or not to have a tattoo. If so, that would make it taboo too.

[Lori Frank]

Thanks for your comment, Words4FaithPeep. I appreciate your stopping by the blog. Agreed, pride is never a good guide in decision making. I pray the Lord will guide this couple you mentioned and that our church will get another chance to love on them in Jesus Name.