Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Tattoos - Should Christians Get Them?

Tattoos - Should Christians Get Them?

It is significant that the Mosaic Law forbade God's people to tattoo themselves. Leviticus 19:28 says:

"(You) shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am Jehovah." (ASV)

Even though Christians today are no longer bound to the Mosaic Law, the prohibition it laid on tattooing is worth considering. (Ephesians 2:15; Colossians 2:14, 15) Additionally, if you are a Christian, the Bible counsels that you certainly would not want to make markings on your body—even temporarily—that has any trace of paganism or false worship. (See 2 Corinthians 6:15-18.)

Another thing to consider is whether choosing to get a tattoo would enhance or undermine your claim of being a Christian. As many react negatively, one could ask themselves, "How may others feel about my wearing a tattoo?" (1 Corinthians 10:29-33)  Could it be a "cause for stumbling" others? (2 Corinthians 6:3)

One who seeks to please God should also keep in mind that becoming a Christian involves the offering of oneself to God. The Bible says that our bodies are living sacrifices presented to God for His use:

"And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice – the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?" - Rom 12:1 (NLT)

For much more, see:

What Does the Bible Say About Tattoos? (JW.ORG)

Should I Get a Tattoo? (g03 9/22 pp. 25-27; Watchtower Online Library)

The Bible’s Viewpoint - Body Decoration—The Need for Reasonableness (g00 8/8 pp. 18-19; Watchtower Online Library)

Tattoos (INDEX; Watchtower Online Library)
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