Tattoos

[Simona25]

How do you mean?

There is a sense in which if a person anticipates that a faith based tattoo design (Christian fish sign <>< on arm, etc.) will lead to many witness conversations, then going ahead and getting it might be described as an act of faith.

From my own experience, whenever I meet a new person, we will talk at some moment about God, because both christians and non-believers love this topic. The shy young person that you was talking about in another post, should put her faith in God, not into a tattoo. This is what I don`t like about tattoes: they are based on complexes, on fears, on lack of faith, or on the contrary, on pride, on self-glory, on rebellion etc. I also don`t agree with christian tattoes (especially those that portray Jesus Christ) because they seem to take God in vain. Christianity is to be lived, not exposed on our bodies.

My church is against tattoes not because they are inherently bad, but because through the tattoo (and other wordly things) we preoccupy ourselves with vain things. What is our main goal? Salvation and growing into the likeness of God. Is a tattoo going to lead me there? I doubt it.

 

[Simona25]

I appreciate what you say, ji.

But what if you already have a tattoo?

For example, if a Christian woman has a tattoo of an ex-non-Christian bf's name, e.g., 'Bill', and it's hard to remove, getting the 'Bill' changed to 'Bible', for example, is much more straightforward, and can also lead to witness discussions.

Blessings.

That`s another situation and we shouldn`t judge people that have tattoes. But if the question "should I get a tatto?" is being asked by a christian, than I believe that christian should ask himself "why do I want to do that in the first place?".

 

[faroukfarouk]

From my own experience, whenever I meet a new person, we will talk at some moment about God, because both christians and non-believers love this topic. The shy young person that you was talking about in another post, should put her faith in God, not into a tattoo. This is what I don`t like about tattoes: they are based on complexes, on fears, on lack of faith, or on the contrary, on pride, on self-glory, on rebellion etc. I also don`t agree with christian tattoes (especially those that portray Jesus Christ) because they seem to take God in vain. Christianity is to be lived, not exposed on our bodies.

My church is against tattoes not because they are inherently bad, but because through the tattoo (and other wordly things) we preoccupy ourselves with vain things. What is our main goal? Salvation and growing into the likeness of God. Is a tattoo going to lead me there? I doubt it.

I don't quite understand, because on the one hand you seem to say that tattoos - including faith based designs? - are always based on lack of faith and rebellion; and then you say they are not inherently bad.

For some people, getting one is driven by a strong desire to have an already proven means of facilitating witness conversations with people.

 

[faroukfarouk]

That`s another situation and we shouldn`t judge people that have tattoes. But if the question "should I get a tatto?" is being asked by a christian, than I believe that christian should ask himself "why do I want to do that in the first place?".

Well, exactly; we shouldn't judge.

Some Christians have indeed asked themselves this question, Why? and they have found an answer, based on the conviction to witness, that they would like to use a proven means to make easier conversations with people.

 

[Simona25]

I don't quite understand, because on the one hand you seem to say that tattoos - including faith based designs? - are always based on lack of faith and rebellion; and then you say they are not inherently bad.

For some people, getting one is driven by a strong desire to have an already proven means of facilitating witness conversations with people.

I was reffering to a specific situation when a young shy person gets a tattoo because the tattoo facilitates somehow the conversation with the non-believers. I think that`s a lack of faith and a sad case, like I already said. If at some point someone asks me "are you a christian?" than the answer would be "yes, I am". Do I need tattoes so that people realise I`m a christian?

 

[mlssufan01]

For me, I don't think the Bible directly mentions tattoos, but what I do see is that the money used for these tattoos could be better utilized elsewhere, such as helping someone in need, providing for your family, and the like. Also, some tattoos are directly obscene either in visual or meaning. So is it wrong? I would say for me the only real motive that could justify it is getting one that leads to a discussion about Jesus, otherwise to me it's just a plain waste of money. I don't condemn people who have done it, I guess that is just more of a personal choice that a biblical teaching, unless we're getting into the vulgar tattoos, then yes, it's wrong

 

[faroukfarouk]

I was reffering to a specific situation when a young shy person gets a tattoo because the tattoo facilitates somehow the conversation with the non-believers. I think that`s a lack of faith and a sad case, like I already said. If at some point someone asks me "are you a christian?" than the answer would be "yes, I am". Do I need tattoes so that people realise I`m a christian?

In testimony, the emphasis should always be on the inward, the spiritual, the words and the actions.

However, there are some conversations which would likely not take place at all, except that something assist the process. The plain fact is that faith based tattoo designs are proven conversation-starters. They are not for everyone. But some Christians do get them out of conviction.

 

[faroukfarouk]

I would say for me the only real motive that could justify it is getting one that leads to a discussion about Jesus..

...and this is precisely why some Christians get them; they are proven conversation-starters.

They are not for everyone, of course.

 

[ji]

I appreciate what you say, ji.

But what if you already have a tattoo?

For example, if a Christian woman has a tattoo of an ex-non-Christian bf's name, e.g., 'Bill', and it's hard to remove, getting the 'Bill' changed to 'Bible', for example, is much more straightforward, and can also lead to witness discussions.

Blessings.

I have used the term 'you' here in general,not personally.
Reconcile with God.If there are no body cuts,i think there might be natural things available that can be used instead of using chemicals to erase it.The body markings that we call tattoos are invitations for demonic forces to enter our bodies.And if its body cuts made for tattoos,then just leave it.In any case,reconcile with God(if possible in tears).It's not a big deal.I do it often for even small lies and arrogant attitude i have shown to others.For god,its all sins,not higher or lesser.He forgives the moment we repent.

Tattoos of no kind whether it be biblical or others,shouldn't be entertained.If you want to keep biblical verses visible wherever you go,print it on your shirt and please without much font styling.Let people read.You might make the day of someone depressed and also someone might come to Jesus that way.(I strongly urge you to do so).Do everything in Prayer.

Again after you have repented from what you have already done in ignorance,you can let it go.If you are having an obsession to do it again,then it's an addiction and you are under demonic influence.Pray more and more to God and get victory over it.That's how it works for every addiction.First understanding,then loosing the pleasure in doing it,and at last after battles (depending on our inner strength boosted by the amount of Grace of God that we allowed to flow inside us) we Overcome even if it takes time.Once again,this is for hard core addicts who fight problems without any help(ignored).

Leave the cuts made as it is.You repented is what matters for God.God's work is happening inside your soul.Continue growing in Christ.Don't give heed to comments that others say after seeing the marks that are still left on your body.Where God has Forgiven,fools have no right to judge.Ignore them.Be sincere to God.Also Pray to God if you really feel you want those marking and cuts removed from your body,if it really troubles you.Don't take it as a joke.A heart felt plea/request God will respond.He might give you a skin change.For God is nothing is impossible.Its our Faith that hinders.
God Bless

 

[faroukfarouk]

I have used the term 'you' here in general,not personally.
Reconcile with God.If there are no body cuts,i think there might be natural things available that can be used instead of using chemicals to erase it.The body markings that we call tattoos are invitations for demonic forces to enter our bodies.And if its body cuts made for tattoos,then just leave it.In any case,reconcile with God(if possible in tears).It's not a big deal.I do it often for even small lies and arrogant attitude i have shown to others.For god,its all sins,not higher or lesser.He forgives the moment we repent.

Tattoos of no kind whether it be biblical or others,shouldn't be entertained.If you want to keep biblical verses visible wherever you go,print it on your shirt and please without much font styling.Let people read.You might make the day of someone depressed and also someone might come to Jesus that way.(I strongly urge you to do so).Do everything in Prayer.

Again after you have repented from what you have already done in ignorance,you can let it go.If you are having an obsession to do it again,then it's an addiction and you are under demonic influence.Pray more and more to God and get victory over it.That's how it works for every addiction.First understanding,then loosing the pleasure in doing it,and at last after battles (depending on our inner strength boosted by the amount of Grace of God that we allowed to flow inside us) we Overcome even if it takes time.Once again,this is for hard core addicts who fight problems without any help(ignored).

Leave the cuts made as it is.You repented is what matters for God.God's work is happening inside your soul.Continue growing in Christ.Don't give heed to comments that others say after seeing the marks that are still left on your body.Where God has Forgiven,fools have no right to judge.Ignore them.Be sincere to God.Also Pray to God if you really feel you want those marking and cuts removed from your body,if it really troubles you.Don't take it as a joke.A heart felt plea/request God will respond.He might give you a skin change.For God is nothing is impossible.Its our Faith that hinders.
God Bless

You mean, seemingly to follow your logic, it's preferable to keep a nude tattoo from the past, than to have it changed to someone clothed?

or preferable for a tattoo with bad wording to stay that way than have it altered to say something God-honoring?

I don't quite understand.

Paul also said that demons cannot indwell a person that is indwelt by the Holy Spirit.

 

[ji]

My church is against tattoes not because they are inherently bad, but because through the tattoo (and other wordly things) we preoccupy ourselves with vain things. What is our main goal? Salvation and growing into the likeness of God. Is a tattoo going to lead me there? I doubt it.

Exactly.
When you look for a like button to press it for reading something precise you cannot find it.There is a shortage of everything in this world nowadays.

 

[faroukfarouk]

Exactly.
When you look for a like button to press it for reading something precise you cannot find it.There is a shortage of everything in this world nowadays.

Sorry, maybe I'm tired or something but I'm not grasping the meaning of your sentences. Could you clarify, please?

Blessings.

 

[ji]

Sorry, maybe I'm tired or something but I'm not grasping the meaning of your sentences. Could you clarify, please?

Blessings.

That's a weird technical problem.
There is something weird.Anyways it was posted by simona.
"My church is against tattoes not because they are inherently bad, but because through the tattoo (and other wordly things) we preoccupy ourselves with vain things. What is our main goal? Salvation and growing into the likeness of God. Is a tattoo going to lead me there? I doubt it."

Are tattoos bringing the world into you?sorry for the previous comment that didn't make sense..

 

[faroukfarouk]

That's a weird technical problem.
There is something weird.Anyways it was posted by simona.
"My church is against tattoes not because they are inherently bad, but because through the tattoo (and other wordly things) we preoccupy ourselves with vain things. What is our main goal? Salvation and growing into the likeness of God. Is a tattoo going to lead me there? I doubt it."

Are tattoos bringing the world into you?sorry for the previous comment that didn't make sense..

I'm trying to figure the he said/she said...

Thanks, anyway.

 

[Jda016]

I think of the Scripture where Paul warns people who want to be teachers, not to do it lightly, because they will be judged greater. I wonder if something similar can be said about Christian tattoos.

if you identify yourself as a Christian with a tattoo, then it seems like your life better really reflect Christ-likeness. I can't tell you how many people have been turned off to Christianity because they knew a guy with a Christian tattoo who slept around all the time and didn't live for Christ (I knew someone exactly like that). The same can be said of Christian T-shirts or jewelry. At least the latter can be taken off.

I understand someone newly saved that wants to express their zeal for God by getting a Christian tattoo, but zeal doesn't always equate to wisdom.

 

[ji]

You mean, seemingly to follow your logic, it's preferable to keep a nude tattoo from the past, than to have it changed to someone clothed?

or preferable for a tattoo with bad wording to stay that way than have it altered to say something God-honoring?

I don't quite understand.

Paul also said that demons cannot indwell a person that is indwelt by the Holy Spirit.

If there are body cuts,are you going to chip that flesh off from your body...?
Trying to alter is continuing the same habit.Christianity has a culture in Christ.And irrespective of nationality we have,there are standards that should be kept as Christian.altering tattoo is just the same as doing it again and improving it.
We shouldn't correct and teach God,He teaches us.Otherwise consequences follow in bad ways for what you thought and did was for good.
"Paul also said that demons cannot indwell a person that is indwelt by the Holy Spirit."Well,provide me the Holy Bible verse.
And also generally,when Holy Spirit dwells in us,if we invite demons because of our pride,Holy spirit will go and demons will enter.

 

[Simona25]

However, there are some conversations which would likely not take place at all, except that something assist the process. The plain fact is that faith based tattoo designs are proven conversation-starters.

Conversations that would not take place at all unless you had a tattoo...can you give an example (I have imagined some, but they tend to turn into jokes, so, I`ll refrain myself).

 

[ji]

I think of the Scripture where Paul warns people who want to be teachers, not to do it lightly, because they will be judged greater. I wonder if something similar can be said about Christian tattoos.

if you identify yourself as a Christian with a tattoo, then it seems like your life better really reflect Christ-likeness. I can't tell you how many people have been turned off to Christianity because they knew a guy with a Christian tattoo who slept around all the time and didn't live for Christ (I knew someone exactly like that). The same can be said of Christian T-shirts or jewelry. At least the latter can be taken off.

I understand someone newly saved that wants to express their zeal for God by getting a Christian tattoo, but zeal doesn't always equate to wisdom.

How much perfect are you in doing Godly things?Yes.i agree that wearing a shirt with biblical verses doesn't make a person Christian.But be it senior Christian or junior Christian,Love of God can make a person exhibit it.Having a shirt with printed bible verses is not the same as tattoo.don't mix things.And it's irrespective of the person's quality.Yes,also its sad when some hypocrite who doesn't care about God do it for initial thrill.
But at this rate,it might be forbidden for Churches to put Holy Scripture verses on their walls,because the people in Lord's Ministry are corrupt.I don't think so.Keep the balance.

 

[faroukfarouk]

I think of the Scripture where Paul warns people who want to be teachers, not to do it lightly, because they will be judged greater. I wonder if something similar can be said about Christian tattoos.

if you identify yourself as a Christian with a tattoo, then it seems like your life better really reflect Christ-likeness. I can't tell you how many people have been turned off to Christianity because they knew a guy with a Christian tattoo who slept around all the time and didn't live for Christ (I knew someone exactly like that). The same can be said of Christian T-shirts or jewelry. At least the latter can be taken off.

I understand someone newly saved that wants to express their zeal for God by getting a Christian tattoo, but zeal doesn't always equate to wisdom.

Actually I wholeheartedly agree that the profession, whether in ink on skin, or oral, for that matter, brings solemn responsibilities also.

Part of the issue is also respecting the honest wish of zealous believers to fulfil a God honoring witness (whether or not other Christians would necessarily act in the same way.

Blessings.

 

[faroukfarouk]

Conversations that would not take place at all unless you had a tattoo...can you give an example (I have imagined some, but they tend to turn into jokes, so, I`ll refrain myself).

I am talking rather specifically about the fact that faith based tattoo designs are indeed proven conversation-starters.