Are Tattoos a Sin?

Is it a sin to get a tattoo? In today’s episode, Jeff responds to this very common and sometimes controversial question. Jeff offers Scriptural references, Church teaching, and great points to ponder concerning the topic of tattoos.

Snippet from the Show
Tattoo your heart with the love of Christ.

Scripture References

“‘Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:28).

“Henceforth let no man trouble me; for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus” (Gal 6:17).

“God adorned Israel with bracelets in jewelry” (Ezekiel 16).

“God chastises Israel for their self-centered adornment” (Isaiah 2).

“Women should adorn themselves modestly and sensibly in seemly apparel, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly attire but by good deeds, as befits women who profess religion” (1 Tim 2:9-10).

“Let not yours be the outward adorning with braiding of hair, decoration of gold, and wearing of fine clothing, but let it be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable jewel of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious”(1 Peter 3:3-4).

Considering Getting a Tattoo? Here Are Some Things to Think About

1. There is an inordinate focus on self in our culture. A radical individualism. There is a focus on “my truth.” Think about this before laying down the ink.

2. Tattoos are permanent. Very different than applying makeup or a cologne. Caution regarding numbers, names and political movements or causes. Will your future spouse appreciate the meaning?

3. Is this message a permanent message in your life?

4. You will change. You will not look the same in 40 years as you do today. You will change and the culture will change as well.

5. Tattoos for the most part do not make you more beautiful or handsome. They typically become less desirable as they age. When your future spouse asks why you didn’t get a tattoo, you could say, “Because I was saving this body for you.”

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