The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe

Well the only thing that I can remember is that the bible does say that our bodies are houses and temples of God. He created it and it is His. If you defile it, it is like defiling a place of God. But, I always understood this as abusing ourselves and our bodies through addictions (from sex to food to drugs) and other self-destructive behavior.
So, I wouldn't call getting tattoos an abuse of the body... unless it is part of a self-destructive behavior. Do I make any sense?
I hope someone with more expertise can tell you more!

Hi Joe,
Check this link out.
Tattoos and Religion (http://www.inksling.com/tattoos_and_religion.htm)

Personally, I feel there's is nothing wrong with a decent tattoo.

-Kae

I do not see anything wrong with a tattoo like you described. My pastor would disagree, saying a tattoo is defiling God's temple - your body. But one has to use common sense on this. If you are really in doubt, talk to your pastor.

Since I got a PM about this one, I will merely paste and copy my PM answer here:

Yes I read it and it appeared to be answered OK, and I had nothing really more to add.

Lev 19 ( I think) addresses it but it does in the context of cutting and tattoo for the dead, that was a custom in those day from pagan practice to mark your body as a help to move the person from this world to the next. Beyond that I don't know of tattoo for looks and fun like we do now.

And if you read all of that chapte you will see all sorts of things that are sins for that time and place.

So my feeling is that the mention in Lev is not related to what we do and call tattoos today, since it is not done for a religious purpose (normally)

I have nothing against them, 3 of my 5 sons have them ( one of my sons is 6 and better not have one)
I almost got one while in the military and a little part of me still would like one.

I think they can be nice looking.

So my vote Not a Sin

Well since I do not believe, I do not sin;). I look at things from -is it moral?
Hurts no other --so its moral. [ had to stick my 2 cents in lol]

Thank you for your 2 cents. 3 cents more and I could buy a small candy. Lol

Jesushelper,
Lol... where?! I didn't think you could get anything for a nickel anymore!

At the corner store. Don't ask me which one. It might be hard to find. Lol

Personally I think its fine to get a tat, when I was a christian I thought it was fine too. I mean as long as you don't put something evil on you. As a nonreligious person ill say I think you should do what you want. It is your body, you see it everyday and live with it. If you love your child or family or w/e that much gosh do what you want. And some of the things in the bible are more like guidelines :)

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe
hi, I can help you, in the book of leviticus it tells us not to get tattoos, but after Jesus was born he overcame the law with his Grace and therefore before Jesus was born it would have been a sin to get a tattoo, but not after Jesus came... so you can get tattoos and not be doing anything biblically wrong as long as they are not tatttoos symbolizing evil... if you have any more bible questions feel free to ask me... or you can ask Phoenix First Assembly 2006 (http://www.phoenixfirst.org) if you like also... take care and may God Bless you... trust Jesus in all things

hi, i can help you, in the book of leviticus it tells us not to get tattoos, but after Jesus was born he overcame the law with his Grace and therefore before Jesus was born it would have been a sin to get a tattoo, but not after Jesus came ... so you can get tattoos and not be doing anything biblically wrong as long as they are not tatttoos symbolizing evil..... if you have any more bible questions feel free to ask me.... or you can ask Phoenix First Assembly 2006 (http://www.phoenixfirst.org) if you like also......take care and may God Bless you.... trust Jesus in all things
It always makes me smile when folks say the Old Testament does not apply since Jesus`s coming. [ though it will be quoted right of the bat when it comes to gays]
Lets look at what Jesus said about the Old Testament
1) “For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:18-19 RSV) Clearly the Old Testament is to be abided by until the end of human existence itself. None other then Jesus said so.
2) "It is easier for Heaven and Earth to pass away than for the smallest part of the letter of the law to become invalid." (Luke 16:17 NAB)
3) "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest part or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place." (Matthew 5:17 NAB)
4)Jesus is criticized by the Pharisees for not washing his hands before eating. He defends himself by attacking them for not killing disobedient children according to the commandment: “He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.” (Matthew 15:4-7)
5) “Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law" (John7:19) and “For the law was given by Moses,. " (John 1:17).

6) “...the scripture cannot be broken.” --Jesus Christ, John 10:35

So please point out where JESUS says to the old testament is void.

I never said it did not apply as a whole, I said that specific section in leviticus did not apply anymore, don't put words in my mouth, and things about gays are also in new testament, you don't have a ministry if your job is to tear people down, and putting words in their mouth is doing that

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe


Tattoos are permanent marks or designs made on the skin by puncturing it and filling the punctures with indelible ink. The practice is a desecration of the human body and should not be permitted, unless all that is involved is the placing of a blood type or an identification number in an obscure place.

YE are the children of the LORD your God: ye shall not cut yourselves, nor make any baldness between your eyes for the dead. (Deuternomy 14:1.)

The Hebrew word - gaw-dad' - translated as cut in English versions means to penetrate, to cut, and to cut into, which is the method of tattooing both in ancient times and today. (It also can mean to attack in a body, as with scimitars and scythes etc).

The reasons seem to be that the Israelites (the faithful, obedient ones) should distinguish themselves by not following after the fashions of their heathen neighbours.

Exodus 19.5 Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth [is] mine:

Psaloi 135.4 For the LORD hath chosen Jacob unto himself, and Israel for his peculiar treasure.

Israel - the men, or people, of God were to be a people 'set apart,' which is to say, 'consecrated' to serving God. That such a distinction was held to persist in the NT Church might be seen in 1 Peter 2.9: But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

Peculiar is not odd or weird, but distinct in habit, dress, behaviour and bodily adornment to the extent that no one would conmfuse them

Helpful?


M:)RGANITE



.

It always makes me smile when folks say the Old Testament does not apply since Jesus`s coming. [ though it will be quoted right of the bat when it comes to gays]
Lets look at what Jesus said about the Old Testament
1) “For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:18-19 RSV) Clearly the Old Testament is to be abided by until the end of human existence itself. None other then Jesus said so.
2) "It is easier for Heaven and Earth to pass away than for the smallest part of the letter of the law to become invalid." (Luke 16:17 NAB)
3) "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest part or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place." (Matthew 5:17 NAB)
4)Jesus is criticized by the Pharisees for not washing his hands before eating. He defends himself by attacking them for not killing disobedient children according to the commandment: “He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.” (Matthew 15:4-7)
5) “Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law" (John7:19) and “For the law was given by Moses,..." (John 1:17).

6) “...the scripture cannot be broken.” --Jesus Christ, John 10:35

So please point out where JESUS says to the old testament is void.
Well, Mr Savage, that's a whole nother question. My response to the question - were anyone to ask it - would be that ancient Israel had two table of law: one was the Godly moral law, and the second was the Mosaic Code.

Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the Mosiac Code (see the Book of Hebrews), but did not remove any responsibility from the faithful in regard to observing the Moral Law.

Sifting through the Book of Leviticus - the Priestly Holiness Code and Book of Rutual Deeds - and dividing strictly ritual acts from the interwoven moral requirements of the people of God pays dividends. It shows that while we do not have to slaughter anuimals any more, Chjrist being the ultimate and complete sacriofice of which anuimakls were bnut anticipatory types or models, we do have to be moral beings because God is Moral, and true worship consists of imitating the One worshipped. Therefore, as God is holy, we must also be holy. Etc.

If you get my drift.

M:)RGANITE

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe


Anything we do that stumbles another person into is a sin moving away from God via rejecting his Word or else via running from those who are supposed to be Christians is a sin. That includes tattoos.
Romans 14:21 It is good not to eat meat or to drink (http://av.rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A9ibyJ.wUKxFclUA5ElrCqMX;_ylu=X3oDMTBvdmM3bGl xBHBndANhdl93ZWJfcmVzdWx0BHNlYwNzcg--/SIG=11kq1565n/EXP=1169007152/**http%3a//bible.cc/romans/14-21.htm)

Ray, how do you stop being a Christian? Are you sure you were one before? Are you just out of fellowship? Are you still in touch with God but disenchanted with organized religion?The reason I ask, is true Christianity cannot leave a person's heart. Once the Holy Spirit enters the heart, there is no getting Him out. Please explore what I am asking and get back to me please. Blessings to you, sweetie.

Jesushelper, I think the tatoos you described sound sweet. I actually think God would be pleased. I did hear that some things listed in the Bible had to do with that day and age as FR Chuck stated. God is more concerned with your heart and your heart seems fine to me. Carry on my good brother!

My Tattoo:

יחוח




Can't size it right... it's God's Name.

It always makes me smile when folks say the Old Testament does not apply since Jesus`s coming. [ though it will be quoted right of the bat when it comes to gays]
Lets look at what Jesus said about the Old Testament
1) “For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:18-19 RSV) Clearly the Old Testament is to be abided by until the end of human existence itself. None other then Jesus said so.
2) "It is easier for Heaven and Earth to pass away than for the smallest part of the letter of the law to become invalid." (Luke 16:17 NAB)
3) "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. Amen, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest part or the smallest part of a letter will pass from the law, until all things have taken place." (Matthew 5:17 NAB)
4)Jesus is criticized by the Pharisees for not washing his hands before eating. He defends himself by attacking them for not killing disobedient children according to the commandment: “He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.” (Matthew 15:4-7)
5) “Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law" (John7:19) and “For the law was given by Moses,..." (John 1:17).

6) “...the scripture cannot be broken.” --Jesus Christ, John 10:35

So please point out where JESUS says to the old testament is void.
Far from declaring what he called the 'scripture' void, Jesus referred to it often. However, he does inform Christians that some of the old ritual requirements are kaput and that a higher law of the gospel is now in force.

Matthew uses the Hebrew scriptures to set out his case before Hebrews that Jesus is the mashiach, which he certainly would not do if the OT was consigned to the dustbin by Jesus. It is Jesus who said:

"Search the scriptures (Hebrew Scriptures, or The Old Testament), for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they that testify of me."

It is necessary to separate the moral law and commandments in the OT from the Mosaic ritual laws that are there. It is the latter that is fulfilled in Jesus, but the former, as Paul repeatedly admonishes, remains in force and is required as essential of those who follow Christ..

"Love and do as you please," is Gnosticism not Christianity.

My best friends nana, who we buried today (bless her soul!) always insisted tattoos are a pretty form of self harming. I think for some people she is right. However, I have three tattoos, and always got them for good things not bad, and I love them to this day.
From a practical point of view, tattoos need to be done by a very good qualified certified artist, to reduce the risk of infection, and also to help prevent ending up with a dodgy tattoo (most of us have seen someone with one of those!)

Hi Squiffy. Welcome to this awsome site. I already met a few really nice people and you are definitely nice... I'll vouch for you anytime.

Sorry about your best friend's nana. I hope she went peacefully.

Hi sexy beasty! Yeah friends nana went very peacefully in the end, she just slipped away no pain or anything. She was a right old character! This site looks fab, and maybe get on better here than back on wondir lol!

I will miss wondir though. You guys are such a bunch of good friends. You are fortunate to be able to get on.

I am trying my humor out on the folks here a little at a time... don't want to scare them. LOL. They seem to like me so far. I like to mix the heavy with the light... well, you know that about me and they WILL.

Glad the nana went in peace. Peace to you sweetie.

Now I realize why there are so many new members. Wondir shut down.

I remember going through that with ASKME.COM, I have been on other sites since then but this is my favorite right now.

You are all going to love it here, I believe. Lots of good people. Some with a good sense of humour and some without but you guys stick around long enough you will get to know a lot of different people which is the best thing about this site.

Have fun and mix the light with the heavy.

Joe

I have to be honest, jesushelper, wondir didn't shut down... they shut me down. I have a crazy sense of humor. I love to answer seriously as well as have fun with my friends on the site. I hung around Religion and Philosophy.

Someone was complaining once that the moderators need to step in more, as we get off subject sometimes and tell jokes of the day and so forth. We were just getting to be good friends, that's all. One day, a friend got the boot. We knew it was the moderators as they were deleting post after post. I and a friend were going on about censorship and boom... I got booted.

They won't even let be have any access to the site. I am using my old handle on this site. I contacted wondir through my son's site.. covert operation, and under a guest name, since I lost my history and screen name, told my peeps what was going on. Crazy.

I may be able to be reinstated. I do like this site though and will be staying. Boy am I LONG WINDED or what?? That is the story. I am searching for defectors there, or at least visitors from there. Squiffy is a wondir member presently. The screen name is the same on both sites.

I am still working on reinstatement. LOL... and good luck to me. As you can see, I have a big mouth and wondir doesn't like a big mouth.

I will be honest. The original reason why I came here is because I got suspended on another site. Answerway.com

There was a bunch of goings on and many people complaining about others. Next thing you know the site owner went all mad. Suspended like 10 or more of us all at within days.

The reason I got suspended was because I asked why did a certain member get suspended they did not do anything. Next thing you know all questions about the ones getting suspended and the reasons were erased and I was suspended for asking the question. Did I ever pounce on management.

Anyway, We all have our own stories I guess. I guess you could tell I am similar.

Joe

Guess we are a couple of Big Mouths. Hee hee.

I understand monitoring abuse, but what is abusive in questioning management? I tried to get reinstated today, you know, with the same screen name but it came back error. Twice.That never used to happen.

They have new owners, I hear, and MUCH stricter policies. I seemed to be permanently banished with only bread and water. O.k. I'm having Evian and french bread, but you get the picture.

Lol,

It is there loss. Answerway has never been the same since they went all nutty with their extreme right wing, religious monitoring that if they did not agree with anything they just banned you and erased your answers or questions. You were not allowed to question anything, it got you banned. It is crazy. I rather be a big mouth and speak my mind and speak up for what is right.

Oh, I get the picture.

I guess wondir isn't the only heavy handed site. Well, you are a welcome person on this site. My first friend. Awww.

What time is it there in Canada? I live in California, USA. It is 2:30pm here.

I guess wondir isn't the only heavy handed site. Well, you are a welcome person on this site. My first friend. Awww.

What time is it there in Canada? I live in California, USA. It is 2:30pm here.

It depends on your location in Canada, as it does in the USA.

lol,

It is there loss. Answerway has never been the same since they went all nutty with their extreme right wing, religious monitoring that if they did not agree with anything they just banned you and erased your answers or questions. You were not allowed to question anything, it got you banned. It is crazy. I rather be a big mouth and speak my mind and speak up for what is right.

Oh, I get the picture.

I was told that Christian fundamentalists had claimed Answerway for their private pulipit and would not brook contrary opinions. They have even been called bigots. A sorry state of affairs.

God gave us brains to think and mouthys to speak. Why not use them?

Morganite, you are funny. I think you know I was asking Jesushelper what time where he is, wherever that is in Canada. I have my eye on you Morganite... both eyes in fact. Take care you crazy kook! LOL

On your last post, morganite, you are right... "a sorry state of affairs."

But you are still a crazy kook. Talkz later.

Right now it is 6:30 pm.

Well I don't see anything wrong with taking a tattoo I had one before and there's nothing wrong with it ( as far as I know)

Is your tattoo pink, pink?

What a shame... that allowing people to be themselves, to have an opinion will get them booted from a site!

I don't always agree with people, and trust me... people don't always agree with me, but I always respect another's right to be who they are and say what they believe. It's a shame that people can't understand that a vast variety of personalities and views is a benefit to all of us...

I'm glad I found this place, glad I'm getting to know some of the people here.

Lool I love pink but my tattoo isn't pink !

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe
You need to examine your motives for thinking of getting a tattoo. Is it so you can 'fit in'?
Usually when a person has to ask if something is a sin or not, they already know it is... why else ask??
Getting a tattoo of a Cross won't make you more spiritual, you will become less spiritual.
The Bible teaches against marking or piercing our bodies, as it is associated with idol worship. Some might say that it was the Old Testament and that's not for today. I believe that if one must err; then err on the side of caution.
You have not indicated as to whether you are a Christian... that is, have you been born again? Have you asked Jesus to forgive you of your sins and asked Him to come into your heart?
I hope this helps you.

I think it's totally okay to get them. I think tattoos should mean something to you personally (and it's obvious the ones you said you thought of getting do.) before my mom got one (she got it when I was 16), when I was about 13 I started talking about wanting one. And she flipped because she is ver religious. Then I told her what I wanted, which was 7 stars because in revolation, angels are refer to as stars, and 7 is a holy number of complition. I told her I wanted to feel God with me, and he's angels protecting me, fully and complitly. And that is sincerely why I want that tattoo.

She ended up getting one before me.

It's a personaly choice. It's your body and yours alone. But it is God's timple. I think you have every right to decorated it h ow you please, as long as you are polluting it.

Well, I'm a Messianic Jew, and in Jeish religion, it is unthinkable to get a tattoo. However, I don't feel that way. I have a tattoo on my back, and I would never think of removing it. I don't see anything wrong in getting a tattoo, because though it says in the bible to not pierce or mark the body, there are many customs that we do not follow anymore, including the sacrificing of animals.

Well, I'm a Messianic Jew, and in Jeish religion, it is unthinkable to get a tattoo. However, I dont feel that way. I have a tattoo on my back, and I would never think of removing it. I dont see anything wrong in getting a tattoo, because though it says in the bible to not pierce or mark the body, there are many customs that we do not follow anymore, including the sacrificing of animals.

True, thank you for your personal opinions.

I agree believers today are not under the Old Law. (regarding tatoos also- in Leviticus)
But the fact that there was such a command -tatoos have to be considered.
In a sense, tatooing & body piercings have do have to do with modesty. (1Tim. 2:9) which tells us that we are to dress modestly. Modesty means not drawing attention to oneself.

So, therefore I think tatoos & piercings should not be done in excess.
Ok, I am ready for permanent eyeliner! ;)

In the bible it says that when you do something bad to your body, you are defiling the temple of God. But in my opinion, nothing should be wrong with a tattoo as long as it isn't profanic. Like, if you have your sons D.O.B and name om your arm, I find nothing wrong with that. Actually it's kind of cute. But if you want to get a tattoo that has a naked girl dancing on your chest, I think that's disturbing and wrong. A tattoo has to be something that you'll love even as you get older.

True, but I was tought growing up that the cutoms that are soly mentioned in the old testament (and not at all mentioned in the New) were to be done away with at the death of Christ, but those mentioned after His death were still to be followed. That's why my family still only eat kosher and stuff like that. So if you want a testimate answer, search the new testament is my advise, but like I said, I don't see anythingwrong with it...

In the new testament, it says that it is not what goes in your mouth that defiles you but what comes out of it. Meaning you can eat anything as long as your thankful for it.

No that's not what it means. Does God just up and change his mind? No, the kosher laws in Lev are still supposed to be followed, but becase of some misunderstanding with the New Testament, people don't believe that. Does this now mean that we do not have to follow the 10 Commandments? They were in the Old Testament, not the New. SO I guess we're allowed to dishonor our parents, and kill, and commit adultery, and hate people, etc. No it doesn't. We are still required to follow the 10 commandments, regardless of whether they were in the Old or the New Testament. Same with the kosher laws. The first about the defiling your body means the same thing. If you were to get tattoos of skulls and demons and naked people and that kind of stuff that DOES defile the human race, of course it's not right, but if you're doing it in memory of someone or something or something that means a lot to you, then I believe that is fine. My tattoo is of a palm tree. The meaning to me? My name means palmtree, and the definition of palm tree is this:

Palm tree

(Heb. Tamar), the date-palm characteristic of Palestine. It is described as "flourishing" (Ps. 92:12), tall (Cant. 7:7), "upright" (Jer. 10:5). Its branches are a symbol of victory (Rev. 7:9).

This means a lot to me, because I just happen to be 6 foot tall. For a female this is not all that great, and I've hated my height for a long time, but my name, giving that meaning... that's why I got my tattoo. It says in the Bible, do not pierce yourself... I take this as do not do bodily harm, like cutting. Getting piercings are fine, as long as they are for a reason. I got my nose pierced because in the Testaments it's a sign of beauty in Israel.
There's always a reason for something.

The laws in Leviticus were specific for the Israelites during the time period for which they were written. They were written for a specific people at a certain time. While we can gain wisdom from considering they "why's" of these laws, remember that Jesus came to fulfill the law. Read this passage from Acts 10:9-16
9About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. 12It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles of the earth and birds of the air. 13Then a voice told him, "Get up, Peter. Kill and eat."
14"Surely not, Lord!" Peter replied. "I have never eaten anything impure or unclean."

15The voice spoke to him a second time, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean."

16This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven.

Their is nothing wrong biblically with getting a tatoo. The only case where it would be wrong is if you felt God convicting you not to get one and then you went ahead and did it anyway. In that case your sin would be disobedience to God, not the tatoo itself.
Pray about it before you do it. With any decision, prayer is always the best place to start.

Leviticus 19:28 is the verse that talks about tattoos and says, "Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD."

As others have mentioned, Jesus came to fulfill the Old Testament law so that people today do not need to follow it. If you read the entire book of Leviticus, you will understand since many of the laws are not followed by Christians today. For example, Leviticus 19:27 says, "Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard." which is something that most people do.

The problem is that many people will cut and paste verses of the bible together to try to get the bible to prove their point. If you look hard enough, you can find a verse to support almost any position.

Raynefreak,
I would like to ask you why you said WHEN you were a Christian? Please let me encourage you to follow through with your commitment to Christ. He died for vou... He loves you... once you've known His love and power, you could never be happy if you're not living for Him.
I will be praying for you. Please draw close to Him again. You'll be so glad you did!
God bless you...


True, but I was tought growing up that the cutoms that are soly mentioned in the old testament (and not at all mentioned in the New) were to be done away with at the death of Christ, but those mentioned after His death were still to be followed. That's why my family still only eat kosher and stuff like that. So if you want a testimate answer, search the new testament is my advise, but like I said, I don't see anythingwrong with it...


BUT WHAT ABOUT MURDER AND ADULTERY. THEY ARE ALSO IN THE O.T.
BUT WE KNOW WE ARE STILL NOT TO MURDER IN THE NEW TESTAMENT.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Everything your saying is anoying me poppa. Your forcing your religion on people. You give christians a bad name, you need to learn to keep your pitiful comments to yourself. Thanks for all the worthless comment's.

poppa0777-

That's OK. You can throw me in the swimming pool (like some people did to me when I 1st was witnessed to!) I did it again 6months later when the Holy Spirit drew me to Him.
Remember, it's the Holy Spirit who calls a person 1st that makes them willing. God Bless You!

poppa0777 (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/members/poppa0777.html) disagrees: DOESN'T LINE UP WITH THE SCRIPTURES.
(https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/members/poppa0777.html)

That's good, because I wasn't trying to line anything up with any scripture.

Kae

It does say in the new testament that, It is not what you eat, what goes in your mouth that defiles you but what comes out of it. That is a fact.

It is not my own definition, or my own thoughts. If you feel right to eat any kind of food and your thankful for that, it is completely fine.

Other people do not think certain foods are okay for them and we need to respect other peoples choices to decide what food is good for them or not for them.

Back to the tattoos. The majority of people here agree that it all depends on what kind of tattoo you get?

Joe

For me, the type of tattoo a person gets is an outside symbol of who they are on the inside.
This to me, would be the only reason as to why it depends on the tattoo.

I like decent tattoos - things that aren't offensive to look at.

I don't have any because I'm terrified of needles :D but I have been known to wear a few fakies in my younger days:D

Kae

I have always debated to get one. I wanted a religious cross on one arm and now my sons name and date of birth on the other.

What do you think Kae.

Joe

I think that you would be symbolizing a wonderful part of your life -
Something that's meaningful to you...
Showing on the outside, what's important to you on the inside.

It's not offensive, and I happen to admire religious crosses.
Getting your sons name would show, again on the outside, the love you have for your son and your devotion as a father...

If I was standing behind you in the checkout line and saw your tattoos, that's what I'd think:D

Kae

Everything your saying is anoying me poppa. Your forcing your religion on ppl. You give christians a bad name, you need to learn to keep your pitiful comments to yourself. Thanx for all the worthless comment's.
AHA! YOU ARE SNARED BY YOUR OWN WORDS! YOUR FOOTER ON YOUR POSTS INDICATE THAT YOU WANT people's OPINIONS ON YOUR ANSWERS. Does that only mean when I agree with you?
I am not "forcing" anything on you. I am stating exactly what the Bible says. I am not the author, only a messenger. I am telling you this to try to help you to understand that you're on the wrong track. AM I THEREFORE BECOME YOUR ENEMY BECAUSE I TELL YOU THR TRUTH?
I sincerely apologize for offending you...but not for what I said...because I spoke the truth.
what I said was SCRIPTURE, not religion. That's exactly what's wrong with the world now...religion. The people that killed 3000 of our fine people in NYC are religious. Is that what you want?
Not me!
I am sorry I offended you. That was not my intent.

Well then stop being a bible thumper. As I've just posted on the other post I am what I am. I will not change. So here it is for everyone else. I disagree with the method you are using to show people to Jesus. Jesus, didn't force people to sercome to his will, he loved them, guided them, and taught them at their speed. I've read and studied the bible over the course of 18 years. I REFUSE to be a hypocrite, lukewarm or anything God dislikes once I am a true christian. But, as I said I am finding myself. One thing will always remain, my believe and respect for the one true God who made the world and myself in his image.

This man's post is on tatto's. Religion doesn't really apply in my opinion. My christian friend got a tat of 2 praying hands. Is that so wrong? If I wanted to I could get a heart or something. My body is my body, what I put on it is my choice. Sure God may not like me having a demonic picture or a bad sign on it. But I doubt he care's if you use taste and tatfulness. It's a personal expression of self. My fiancé want's to get honor in Chinese. He thinks the world has no honor left. It's a great thing for him.

Well then stop being a bible thumper. As i've just posted on the other post i am what i am. I will not change. So here it is for everyone else. i disagree with the method you are using to show ppl to Jesus. Jesus, didn't force ppl to sercome to his will, he loved them, guided them, and taught them at their speed. I've read and studied the bible over the course of 18 years. I REFUSE to be a hypocrite, lukewarm or anything God dislikes once i am a true christian. But, as i said i am finding myself. One thing will always remain, my believe and respect for the one true God who made the world and myself in his image.

This man's post is on tatto's. Religion doesn't really apply in my opinion. My christian friend got a tat of 2 praying hands. Is that so wrong? If i wanted to i could get a heart or something. My body is my body, what i put on it is my choice. Sure God may not like me having a demonic picture or a bad sign on it. But i doubt he care's if you use taste and tatfulness. It's a personal expression of self. My fiance want's to get honor in Chinese. He thinks the world has no honor left. It's a great thing for him.

I really like this post. Good for you Raynefreak. Thank you for your opinions. It is much appreciated by me.

Joe

I'm glad to know that someone actually views my comment's worth reading or thinking on. I just want people to stop loving the religion and start loving the people. After all, that's what God did. It's funny, people can try to thump to me, but I can come back with it 2x's as good. I don't though. I just wish people would re-evaluate what being a fishermen of men is. Honestly. In the end days, people who thought they were a child of God will have a RUDE awakening. They will be left behind and then and only then will they realize they were living in a lie.

I'm glad to kno that someone actually views my comment's worth reading or thinking on. I just want ppl to stop loving the religion and start loving the ppl. After all, that's what God did. It's funny, ppl can try to thump to me, but i can come back with it 2x's as good. I don't though. I just wish ppl would re-evaluate what being a fishermen of men is. Honestly. In the end days, ppl who thought they were a child of God will have a RUDE awakening. They will be left behind and then and only then will they realize they were living in a lie.

Many people, you are right try to thump on people and bully people to try to force them to believe what they believe. I personally feel that, that action will push people further a way from God. Those people who do that will have a rude awakening. Your very much on to something. I think along the same lines as you. Of course, I have people who are so religious they judge me for the way I show my beliefs. I have had other people, so called religious people on other websites as well call me the devil helper.

Anyway, I agree with your posts and have thought the same way as you. You really do know God, that is proven in your posts.

Joe

Thanks Jesushelper, your words lift me up. :-) I've been so used to hearing people thump to me, talk smack to me, and w/e else. It's nice to hear that people agree with me and think I do make sense. That made my day. I guess I'm NOT a ''Bible-twister'' as some may say lol. Thanks.

Your welcome Raynefreak. No, no bible twister here. Lol

You know the true God, and true meaning of what is needed in this world.

Smile and Hope you have a Great Weekend. :cool:

Because I was wrong, and Raynefreak straightened me out!!

JesusLovesYou disagrees: I guess you think medical operations, sun tanning, laser eye surgery, and draining a zit is a sin too. That is of course when your not busy preparing your burnt offerings and circumcising your children.

You should abandon 'guessing.' You are no good at it. Try 'thinking' for a change. You evidently assume I am Jewish. Using your logic I assume that you are a Plutonian. You should abandon 'assuming,' as you are hopeless at that also. Jesus loves those who love God and their neighbour. Who do you love?



M:)RGANITE

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe
Nope well idont think it is think it depends on what your getting if your asian muslim you would not get christ on your arm

Careful there boy! The smoke is rolling out of your ears!!

JesusLovesYou disagrees: I guess you think medical operations, sun tanning, laser eye surgery, and draining a zit is a sin too. That is of course when your not busy preparing your burnt offerings and circumcising your children.

You should abandon 'guessing.' You are no good at it. Try 'thinking' for a change. You evidently assume I am Jewish. Using your logic I assume that you are a Plutonian. You should abandon 'assuming,' as you are hopeless at that also. Jesus loves those who love God and their neighbour. Who do you love?



M:)RGANITE

No one needs to worry about Supercarman or Jesuslovesyou because they were banned from the site. Breaking rules.

Anyway now back to the original post.

Joe

Well I thinck it's Not good to get a tattoo!
Cuz lata when you don't want it to have the tattoo anymore you can't take it off.
Or if you can it will cost you a lot of money!!

nope well idont think it is think it depends on what your getting if your asian muslim you would not get christ on your arm

I asked questions about what would happen if it was Christianity. Thanks for you comment anyway.

Joe

I believe it is fine. From what religious knowledge I know, I don't think that it is a bad thing to get a tattoo. Anyway bible was written a long time ago and the thing that are in it mostly address the way life and society was back then. Times have changed, I mean if someone found out that you were gay or bisexual back then, you would have been chased out of town and stoned. Now its more widely accepted. Anyway my opinion is that its OK

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe
It's not a sin. Why would you think that?

I do not think it is a sin. Although many Christians I know do frown on altering the body God created, it is a matter of personal preference.

However, I do remember being at college in PA and a man was in the student center preaching and he told us that if you have tattoos, piercings, or are on birth control you were going to hell. I will never forget that... because I remember thinking... "Good Lord, the majority of the people I know will be in hell...including me!!!"

For me, the issue is simple... if I must question whether something is wrong or not, I just choose to not do it. (erring on the side of good) I know Jesus came to fulfill and not destroy the law. To me, being a Christian means to be like Christ. We know from the book of Acts that they were first called "Christians" in Antioch... slamming them for "belonging to Christ".
Each Christian must picture in his or her mind how they picture Jesus, if He were walking the Earth today. When thinking about this, the decision for me is easy.. I cannot picture Jesus walking around with ANY sort of tattoo; or doing a lot of other things we see and hear of many so-called "Christians" doing.
I have no need or desire to "blend in, or fit in" with the rest of the world. I believe a real Christian will have no desire to be involved with or be identified with worldly things. The Bible instructs of us "to be in the world, but not OF the world'.
Is this an "old fashioned" approach? YES! Thank God that I feel no need to fit in by marking my body. It is the Temple of the Holy Ghost!!
Hopefully this will give everyone some insight as to how I view the Scriptures, and practicing Biblical Christianity.
It isn't politically correct, but I believe it's Biblically correct.

But I could see Jesus going into a tattoo palor and eating with them,

I can see him having 100's with tattoo following him and loving him.
Jesus is here for all, those with and those without tattoo.

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe
Well, my initial response would be to pray, and wait for azn answer... but if you're anything but nondenom/evangelical... I would say that there's nothing wrong with it, as long as it is decent and praising the Lord. I went through this same delimma, but after some study, and advice.. and prayer... that's what I got. Just don't do anything without prayin' ;)

I agree with you, but not to Christians being tattoed.

Nope, not a sin unless what you are tattooing on yourself could cause someone else to stumble. If I remember correctly the verse in the bible regarding tattoos was in the Old Testament... along with women not braiding their hair and staying out of the Temple while on their period. I believe that the reason for the "no tattoo" rule back then was because the only people who did have tattoos back then were pagans, and God did not want believers lumped in with the pagans. Now days, youth pastors have them, pastors, doctors, respected members of society, you name it... No, I wouldn't go putting a skull with a snake coming out of it's mouth on my arm. But a beautiful cross(showing others your faith in Jesus), or your babies name, etc.. I don't have a problem with. I believe God cares far more about us having a relationship with him than us following a giant list of rules. And anyway, the rules are to show us how we can't do it without his grace and Holy Spirit. We should want to obey and do His will out of our love for him. And look on the bright side, maybe you'll get to witness to a biker or tattoo parlor employee!:D

What does the Bible say about tattoos / body piercings? (http://www.gotquestions.org/tattoos-sin.html)

What does the Bible say about tattoos / body piercings? (http://www.gotquestions.org/tattoos-sin.html)

Is this an actual answer? It is more of a question? :(

I agree with posts #47 and 75

I also defer to Galatians 3:24 and Romans 14

Pray about it and HE will answer you.

Although I agree wholeheartedly with what is said above, I found this and would like to put it forth for your opinions... TATTOOS & THE BIBLE (http://www.biblebelievers.com/watkins_tattoos/bible.html)

What an interesting topic! The one thing in my opinion is that the laws never changed in the Bible, of course we as people have changed. But the one solid thing is that the Bible has remained the same. Although we as society might think it is acceptable to do things that were forbidden in the old testament or new testament for that matter. I Believe that there is no sense in trying to figure out if it is wrong or right, more importantly we should honor God with everything we do.
I do not have any tattoos and I have no desire to do so, this doesn't make me any less of a sinner or better than someone who has a tattoo. I think what is most important is what someone's intentions are in their heart, not what's on their body.

Maybe it comes down to avoiding things that might make another person stumble like Saint Paul pointed out.

What an interesting topic! The one thing in my opinion is that the laws never changed in the Bible, of course we as people have changed. But the one solid thing is that the Bible has remained the same. Although we as society might think it is acceptable to do things that were forbidden in the old testament or new testament for that matter. I Believe that there is no sense in trying to figure out if it is wrong or right, more importantly we should honor God with everything we do.
I do not have any tattoos and I have no desire to do so, this doesnt make me any less of a sinner or better than someone who has a tattoo. I think what is most important is what someones intentions are in thier heart, not whats on thier body.

Whenever we have to look for "loopholes" like a Philadelphia lawyer to justify our actions there is something wrong.. The real question here is simple...DO WE WANT TO BE LIKE JESUS OR NOT?? [B]As stated by me before, many so-called Christians are trying to fit in with the world, giving in to the world's "fads" and such.
Jesus has very clearly told us that we are "in the world, but not OF the world
jesus will never condone violating ANY part of the scriptures, whether it be OT or NT.!!!B] Where we get into problems is trying to live with one foot in the world and the other foot in the church. We can never be what Jesus commanded us to be unless we resolve in our heart of hearts to completely sell out to Jesus. We will have to deny ourselves to do this.
Until we resolve this issue, we will be as Paul said, "a sounding brass and tinkling cymbal." In other words... JUST A BIG RELIGIOUS NOISE!
God bless each of you. I will be praying for everyone of you in your walk with the Lord. Please pray for me too! Jesus is coming soon!!

In accordance to the bible tattooing is wrong because it is desecrating your temple (sorry, no bible quotes from me, I'm not and avid enough reader I suppose) but I personaly feel that it is your own judgment call.
I myself have ten tattoos. Five of which are memorials to my mother who passed away while I was still at a very young age, one of which contains the star of David for the faith that my mother had chosen for me and I still follow to this day (Judaism).
I still feel as if god listens to me and helps me along when I need him-leading me down the paths I need to walk-, and punishes me when I do wrong, so I don't feel that the ink under my skin hasn't made him cast a blind eye upon me or caused him to love me any less, and it has helped me find closure in my own way.
Once again, these are answers from my heart and are in no way to be taken as an answer from a rabbi or Priest, or whomever leads and teaches in the denomination of your choosing but in my way I feel that having piercings and tattoos, if you feel they are the things for you, are a way of praising god for giving us our bodies-as long as it is not done in a self destructive way-For what greater being could give us vessels that grant us a way to adorn ourselves in ways that allow us to perceive our bodies as beautiful or art?
Some things done to the human body are obscene and perverse, but in my life, I have praised god with every piercing, with every pigment placing, that he has granted me a body that can sustain such acts and heal from it. And I thank god for allowing me to find closure and happiness within my bodily temple with such actions.
Yes, I can be perceived as a 'bad Jew' for piercing my body (which is actually a sign of slavery) and 'branding my flesh' which is a sign of oppression (the nazis tattooed id numbers on the arms of those who went into their camps and I have been told that the Egyptians also tattooed their slaves to show ownership.) but for me they are signs of freedom.
To sum up a very long winded post: Do what you feel is right in your heart. Talk to an elder first of course but the final call is yours. If you feel, in your heart of hearts, that the ink is what you need to have your body be completed then by all means, take that step.
There is no telling what idea is right or wrong or whose translation or deliberation on the words of the bible is correct. There are some who take it word for word or some that take it for a deeper meaning. Do what you believe to be right. :p

Look, the Word says not to. I don't have a clue why it is such a big deal. I don't think it is, I personally wouldn't but it doesn't seem like it should be wrong. But frankly, I don't see how eating one little bite of fruit got Adam and Eve kicked out of the garden. I mean... come on, if we want to reason that one... we'd all agree it wasn't the smartest decision but the outcome of one little tiny wrong bite was HUGE! I guess I can only conclude that my ways are not HIS ways and my THOUGHTS... Not HIS thoughts. Therefore, we can justify, reason and conclude all day... but in the end it is wrong and we have to ask ourselves if God's Word has final authority... or do we just think they look too cool.

Look, the Word says not to. I don't have a clue why it is such a big deal. I don't think it is, I personally wouldn't but it doesn't seem like it should be wrong. But frankly, I don't see how eating one little bite of fruit got Adam and Eve kicked out of the garden. I mean...come on, if we want to reason that one...we'd all agree it wasn't the smartest decision but the outcome of one little tiny wrong bite was HUGE! I guess I can only conclude that my ways are not HIS ways and my THOUGHTS....Not HIS thoughts. Therefore, we can justify, reason and conclude all day...but in the end it is wrong and we have to ask ourselves if God's Word has final authority.....or do we just think they look too cool.
Hey Tessy777: Very well said. That's what's wrong with so-called-Christians today......they want to apply their own reasoning to get around what God said! If He said[ don't do it; then don't do it. It's very difficult for me to understand why people have a problem with that.
WE ARE LIVE CONSECRATED, SEPERATED LIVES. IF THAT'S NOT WHAT WE'RE DOING, MAYBE WE'RE NOT WHERE WE THINK WE ARE.
THERE IS NO JUDGING HERE BY ME.....I DON'T HAVE THAT RIGHT. THE WORD OF GOD WILL JUDGE US ALL AT THE END OF THE ROAD!!!:cool: /COLOR]

There is nothing in the New Testament that suggests tattooing or piercing is a sin.
Show me your references other than Levitical Law where you draw this conclusion.
If we lived by Lev. Law, we would be putting a lot of people to death today!
The closest instruction I found is in 1Corinthians 6:19-20
19Do you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.
So to me if a tattoo dishonors God- like a demon or the like- then it's offensive to the Lord.

BTW-
Definitely a tattoo of 666 on the right hand or forehead will equate to damnation! :eek:

It is under the law... and we are under grace. But here is the thing.. we are to live holy and set apart lives and tatoos are markings like we are just part of the world. I define world to mean people without Christ. Just because we are not under the Law (and we aren't)... doesn't mean we chuck it. It is still God's principles and he is the same today, yesterday and forever. I believe it to be wrong.

There is nothing in the New Testament that suggests tattooing or piercing is a sin.
show me your references other than Levitical Law where you draw this conclusion.
If we lived by Lev. law, we would be putting a lot of people to death today!
The closest instruction I found is in 1Corinthians 6:19-20
19Do you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.
So to me if a tattoo dishonors God- like a demon or the like- then it's offensive to the Lord.

BTW-
Definitely a tattoo of 666 on the right hand or forehead will equate to damnation! :eek:
Your reference to ICor. Is correct, and my point is that if any scripture; either OT or NT gets within 100 miles of something questionable to a Child of God, then why not abstain? To me, it's not worth the chance of offending the Lord.
BTW, I'm having difficulty in the copy/paste of scripture from Word to this forum. Can you offer tips?

I think that excessive tattooing & piercing wrong in some way because then it falls into the category of addictions, self-control & lust-of which should be consecrated. I like what St. Paul said in 1Cor.6:12-"but I will not be mastered by anything." He was referring to the body.
But what about the tattooed person who becomes a new Christian? I don't consider them any less a Christian. God sees the heart & mind. I don't think He cares if he's green or blue.

As far as Word- you can ask the moderators for assistance. Or use Bible.org to copy/paste.

I'm not savvy with the pc:confused:

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it? Joe

Personally, I believe that the body is temple of the Holy Spirit. To tattoo the body as a Christian would be like putting graffiti on the wall of your local church. However, I've known good Christian men who had tattoos. My dad was one. He got a couple of tattoos during WWII before he accepted Christ. There is also only one unforgivable sin and that's blasphemy of the Holy Ghost. Are you willing to defile your body after becoming a Christian? Not me personally but that's a choice that you get to make. God gave all of us free will. How we use that gift is the purpose of our earthly journey. This life is a testing ground.

[QUOTE=Retrotia]There is nothing in the New Testament that suggests tattooing or piercing is a sin.
Show me your references other than Levitical Law where you draw this conclusion.QUOTE]

1 Corinthians 3:16&17, "Know ye not that ye are the Temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the Temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the Temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."

First of all, the above verses kind of say it all for me. Secondly, God gave you a natural adornment that should suffice. You don't see elephants or king snakes artificially changing their outside appearance to draw attention to themselves. Their beauty is in what they already are. Be satisfied with the gifts that God gave you. Be God centered... not self centered.

Personally, I believe that the body is temple of the Holy Spirit. To tattoo the body as a Christian would be like putting graffiti on the wall of your local church. However, I've known good Christian men who had tattoos. My dad was one. He got a couple of tattoos during WWII before he accepted Christ. There is also only one unforgivable sin and that's blasphemy of the Holy Ghost. Are you willing to defile your body after becoming a Christian? Not me personally but that's a choice that you get to make. God gave all of us free will. How we use that gift is the purpose of our earthly journey. This life is a testing ground.

Good point of view!! :)

[QUOTE=Retrotia]There is nothing in the New Testament that suggests tattooing or piercing is a sin.
show me your references other than Levitical Law where you draw this conclusion.QUOTE]

1 Corinthians 3:16&17, "Know ye not that ye are the Temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the Temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the Temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."

First of all, the above verses kind of say it all for me. Secondly, God gave you a natural adornment that should suffice. You don't see elephants or king snakes artificially changing their outside appearance to draw attention to themselves. Their beauty is in what they already are. Be satisfied with the gifts that God gave you. Be God centered...not self centered.
I guess you're right. I personally don't like tattoos. Perhaps for all of the above reasons.

True

AMEN!

I see your point, but why could it not be viewed as painting a picture, rather than graffity?

From my experience, tatoos have very often (not necssarily always) been an outward expression of someone's inner pain. I personally feel that a tattoo is not the issue. Anything can be an issue with a wrong or unhealed heart. If you can grasp your righteousness (ability to stand in God's Presence w/out shame or inferieority)through and in Christ, then only there you will find what's "INSIDE" you that really fulfills the desire God has for you.
What's my point?
My point is simple. With everything you do, in what way does it advance the Kingdom. God's wisdom commands us to seek first His Kindgom, which is inside you.
Your value in Christ must be realized. Legalism and religion will not bring you freedom. Love will bring you freedom. If you are looking for something to love in a tattoo, then you need to understand that there is no purpose or glory in seeking something that is lower than your own self-worth. Look a little higher and a little deeper beneath the flesh.

THe Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not find myself wanting.

Amen.

endlessecho : I see your point, but why could it not be viewed as painting a picture, rather than graffity?

If someone wants to paint a picture all they need to do is get an array of paint, an easel, a canvas and paint away. Or, if they must paint on themselves, they need only paint with removable paint.

Hello Joe,


This again is my opinion according to my understanding of the scriptures.
Tattooing is by no means a modern practice. Tattoo-bearing Egyptian and Libyan mummies have been found that date back hundreds of years before the time of Christ. Tattooed mummies have also been found in South America. Many of the tattooed images were directly related to the worship of pagan gods. According to researcher Steve Gilbert, “the earliest known tattoo that is a picture of something, rather than an abstract pattern, represents the god Bes. In Egyptian mythology Bes is the lascivious god of revelry.”
Significantly, the Mosaic Law forbade God’s people to tattoo themselves. Said
Leviticus 19:28 (New King James Version)
28 You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the LORD.
Deuteronomy 14:1-2 (New King James Version)
1 “You are the children of the LORD your God; you shall not cut yourselves nor shave the front of your head for the dead. 2 For you are a holy people to the LORD your God, and the LORD has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a
Pagan worshipers, such as the Egyptians, tattooed the names or symbols of their deities on their breast or arms. By complying with God’s ban on tattoo markings, the Israelites would stand out as different from other nations.

While Christians today are not under the Law of Moses, the prohibition it laid on tattooing is sobering.
Ephesians 2:15 (New King James Version)
15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace,

If you are a Christian, you would certainly not want to make markings on your body, even temporarily, that smack of paganism or false worship.
2 Corinthians 6:15-18 (New King James Version)
15 And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? 16 And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you[a] are the temple of the living God. As God has said:
“ I will dwell in them
And walk among them.
I will be their God,
And they shall be My people.”
17 Therefore “ Come out from among them
And be separate, says the Lord.
Do not touch what is unclean,
And I will receive you.”
18 “ I will be a Father to you,
And you shall be My sons and daughters,
Says the LORD Almighty.”

One of the mandates for Christians is to preach and teach the good news. Matthew 28:19, 20; Philippians 2:15 A Christian would not want to let anything, including his appearance, distract others from listening to that message.2 Corinthians 4:2.
While such decorations as piercing or tattoos may be popular among some people, a Christian needs to ask himself or herself these questions:
1) What kind of a reaction would such a decoration provoke in the area where I live?
2) Would I be associated with certain fringe elements of society?
3) Even if my conscience were to allow it, what effect would my piercing or tattoo have on others within the congregation?
4) Would they view it as an evidence of “the spirit of the world”?
5) Might it cast doubt on my “soundness of mind”?’1 Corinthians 2:12; 10:29-32; Titus 2:12.

Certain types of body modifications carry serious medical risks. Tattooing with unsanitary needles has been associated with the spread of hepatitis and HIV. Skin disorders sometimes result from the dyes used. Piercing can take months to heal and can hurt for much of that time. They can also produce blood poisoning, hemorrhaging, blood clots, nerve damage, and serious infections. Additionally, some procedures are not easily reversed. For example, depending on the size and the color, a tattoo can take several expensive and painful laser sessions to remove. Piercing may leave lifelong scars.
Whether an individual decides to accept these risks is a personal decision. But one who seeks to please God recognizes that becoming a Christian involves the offering of oneself to God. Our bodies are living sacrifices presented to God for his use.
Romans 12:1 (New King James Version)
1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service
Mature Christians do not view their bodies as their exclusive property to be damaged or defaced at will. Especially those who qualify to take the lead in the congregation are known for their moderate habits, soundness of mind, and reasonableness.1 Timothy 3:2, 3.

Developing and exercising the Bible-trained power of reason will help Christians avoid the extreme, masochistic practices of this world, which is so hopelessly “alienated from the life that belongs to God.” Ephesians 4:18

They can thus let their reasonableness shine before all men.—Philippians 4:5.

Just my opinion according to my scriptural understanding.

Take care,
Hope12
:)

“Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.” Leviticus 19:28 I know this is the old testament but it does till apply. The entire bible is suppose to be used in our daily living. Also we are not to conform to the things of this world.. So basically don't do what the world does.

“Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD.” Leviticus 19:28 I know this is the old testament but it does till apply. The entire bible is suppose to be used in our daily living. Also we are not to conform to the things of this world..So basically don't do what the world does.

God's Word is God's Word. When you quote from the Whole Testament, you can't go wrong. God is sovereign. His Word stands. Please don't be ashamed that you quote from the Old Testament or the New Testament. Christ and the Apostles quoted Old Testament Scriptures over and over again. The New Testament is replete with Old Testament sentiments.

Your answer is on point. Thanks.

endlessecho : I see your point, but why could it not be viewed as painting a picture, rather than graffity?

If someone wants to paint a picture all they need to do is get an array of paint, an easel, a canvas and paint away. Or, if they must paint on themselves, they need only paint with removable paint.

OK....this one is a no-brainer. here is your New Testament Scripture that should clear this issue up:
(1Pe 3:1) Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;
(1Pe 3:2) While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear.
(1Pe 3:3) Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
(1Pe 3:4) But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
(1Pe 3:5) For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: These scriptures connect the Church (Bride of Christ) to Jesus, and how we are to conduct ourselves in this lost and dying world!
(1Pe 3:6) Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.
(1Pe 3:7) Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
ONE LAST OBSERVATION: ROOTED AND GROUNDED IN THE WORD CHRISTIANS UNDERSTAND THAT OUR "CONVERSATION" MEANS OUR WAY OF LIVING OUR LIVES IN THIS WORLD THAT IS PLEASING TO JESUS CHRIST.
(1Jn 2:15) Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
(1Jn 2:16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe
OK Im new at this but Im a sprit filled christian... You can quote the bible over and over and over again but... there are a lot of things we don't live by anymore in the bible Lev 19 addresses it but it does in the context of cutting and tattoo for the dead, that was a custom in those day from pagan practice to mark your body as a help to move the person from this world to the next now you can take that and say yes getting a tattoo is a sin but in REVELATION 19:16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS some bibles it says it's a tattoo Anyway I think like this Tattoos are not a sin they are a way of life... I have 4 of them myself and like I said Im sprit filled

Galatians 6:17 NKJV

17 From now on let no one trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.

<3

When I have doubts about doing certain things, I rather leave it and pray about, and when the Lord answers me in His time I always feel relieved that I've waited upon Him, but tatoos are from the world, and doesn't have any connection with that which is holy

My family is not religious, so they didn't bring me up that way.
And I feel that tattoos are a way to express yourself.
Like clothing and the way of your appearance.
And if it is a sin,
Aren't all sins forgiven?

Many Christians say it is wrong but if you take it in the context of the old testament saying
Do not mix fabrics they are to be 100% cotton, wool, etc...
Do not eat pork, certain seafoods, etc...
The same Christians that will tell you it is wrong to have tattoos think nothing of buying
Clothing that is cotton and rayon and eating squid and chops.

I agree with Fr_Chuck it was the ritual aspects of cutting and tattoos that was wrong.

As far as the New Testament says not to defile your temple but there are verses that basically also say
That it is not what goes into a man that defiles him but what comes out
I take that to mean whatever you do do with a clean conscience or don't do it at all.

I have seven tattoos. All before I started to really search for a relationship with Jesus. Haven't gotten any since walking with Him. I don't think it would be right, if my body is the Temple of the LORD, I don't want to put tattoos on Him.

Hello Joe,


This again is my opinion according to my understanding of the scriptures.
Tattooing is by no means a modern practice. Tattoo-bearing Egyptian and Libyan mummies have been found that date back hundreds of years before the time of Christ. Tattooed mummies have also been found in South America. Many of the tattooed images were directly related to the worship of pagan gods. According to researcher Steve Gilbert, “the earliest known tattoo that is a picture of something, rather than an abstract pattern, represents the god Bes. In Egyptian mythology Bes is the lascivious god of revelry.”
Significantly, the Mosaic Law forbade God’s people to tattoo themselves. Said
Leviticus 19:28 (New King James Version)
28 You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the LORD.
Deuteronomy 14:1-2 (New King James Version)
1 “You are the children of the LORD your God; you shall not cut yourselves nor shave the front of your head for the dead. 2 For you are a holy people to the LORD your God, and the LORD has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a
Pagan worshipers, such as the Egyptians, tattooed the names or symbols of their deities on their breast or arms. By complying with God’s ban on tattoo markings, the Israelites would stand out as different from other nations.

While Christians today are not under the Law of Moses, the prohibition it laid on tattooing is sobering.
Ephesians 2:15 (New King James Version)
15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace,

If you are a Christian, you would certainly not want to make markings on your body, even temporarily, that smack of paganism or false worship.
2 Corinthians 6:15-18 (New King James Version)
15 And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? 16 And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you[a] are the temple of the living God. As God has said:
“ I will dwell in them
And walk among them.
I will be their God,
And they shall be My people.”
17 Therefore “ Come out from among them
And be separate, says the Lord.
Do not touch what is unclean,
And I will receive you.”
18 “ I will be a Father to you,
And you shall be My sons and daughters,
Says the LORD Almighty.”

One of the mandates for Christians is to preach and teach the good news. Matthew 28:19, 20; Philippians 2:15 A Christian would not want to let anything, including his appearance, distract others from listening to that message.2 Corinthians 4:2.
While such decorations as piercing or tattoos may be popular among some people, a Christian needs to ask himself or herself these questions:
1) What kind of a reaction would such a decoration provoke in the area where I live?
2) Would I be associated with certain fringe elements of society?
3) Even if my conscience were to allow it, what effect would my piercing or tattoo have on others within the congregation?
4) Would they view it as an evidence of “the spirit of the world”?
5) Might it cast doubt on my “soundness of mind”?’1 Corinthians 2:12; 10:29-32; Titus 2:12.

Certain types of body modifications carry serious medical risks. Tattooing with unsanitary needles has been associated with the spread of hepatitis and HIV. Skin disorders sometimes result from the dyes used. Piercing can take months to heal and can hurt for much of that time. They can also produce blood poisoning, hemorrhaging, blood clots, nerve damage, and serious infections. Additionally, some procedures are not easily reversed. For example, depending on the size and the color, a tattoo can take several expensive and painful laser sessions to remove. Piercing may leave lifelong scars.
Whether or not an individual decides to accept these risks is a personal decision. But one who seeks to please God recognizes that becoming a Christian involves the offering of oneself to God. Our bodies are living sacrifices presented to God for his use.
Romans 12:1 (New King James Version)
1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service
Mature Christians do not view their bodies as their exclusive property to be damaged or defaced at will. Especially those who qualify to take the lead in the congregation are known for their moderate habits, soundness of mind, and reasonableness.1 Timothy 3:2, 3.

Developing and exercising the Bible-trained power of reason will help Christians avoid the extreme, masochistic practices of this world, which is so hopelessly “alienated from the life that belongs to God.” Ephesians 4:18

They can thus let their reasonableness shine before all men.—Philippians 4:5.

Just my opinion according to my scriptural understanding.

Take care,
Hope12
:)true, but you have to think of the context. I mean I personnaly don't see what is wrong with them, not that you have to go overboar with them, I'm saying that you have look at that from today's perspective

The question for me personally. I would like to know everybodies opinion, thoughts and even biblical response to this question.

Question is, is it a sin to get tattoos. Is it forbidden? Is there anything wrong with getting tattoos and if there is anything wrong with it?

I have thought about getting a couple before, and I thought of it again.

Thank you in advance!

Oh, and if I did get one it would be my boys name and date of birth on one arm. A religious cross on the other.

Joe
I think that tattoos are just another way to express yourself, and as long as they are used for good things and not anything bad, then they are good to get. I feel like the bible was referring to things like stabbing yourself, things that could hurt you enough to kill the body that god gave you.

I think you have to do what makes you happy, (Im sure God wants you to be happy) to express yourself can be very relieving!


= Take whatever is coming to you... let the beauty of it move you!

I always thought that if you love god and believe in him, it shouldn't matter if you have tattoos. As long as those tattoos don't justify other gods or represent evil. But I started to question it myself. After all, I want to go to heaven.

Leviticus 19:28 says:"You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh FOR THE DEAD, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the Lord"

I don't know if it is referring to when the pagans used tattoo to transfer a soul to the afterlife, but it deffinately gives me doubts about whether to get any more tattoos.

I personally have several tatoos which I had before I was saved. I am aware of the scriptures regarrding tatoos. What I have a problem of some remarks is that Jesus died for our sin, so if you are weak in your faith you would walk away from the church and so called saints because no where are you saying we are all sinners, tatoos are visiable so people want to judge and comment, sin is sin.
However, I do not worship my tatoos nor am I ashamed of them. AND I AM NOT ASHAMED THAT I SERVE A GOD WHO DOES NOT THINK LIKE MAN. If you have a tattoo please do not think that GOD does not love you.

I have seen a lot of people who have a tattoo with Jesus and or a Cross. Have you ever watched Miami Ink on TV? There's always a story behind a tattoo and mostly it has to do with people's emotions and that makes that a tattoo can help to let go of certain things you have to deal or dealt with in your life. I don't see anything wrong in tattoos... it can be very beautiful and save you one way or another!

Ok well I have been trying to awnser this question for awhile now and trying to convince myself as right or wrong on tattooing a christianity and I have finally come to the conclusion that it is a sin.

Let me start by saying that the Old Testment has not been done away with the laws were set from this. Lev. 19:28 states And you shall not make any cuttings into your flesh for the dead; and you shall not put on yourself any writing or mark; I am The Lord.

Now although it does state not cutting yourself for the dead the semi-colin makes the next staement a completely different thought which is " and you shall not put on yourself any writing or mark"

I find this scripture to be quite clear on the matter. Many people pursue a way to justify their sins rather than to follow the word of God and I have read the bible searching for anything that would say it is OK to get a tattoo, and there is no scripture that permits this your body is a temple and should not be defiled for any reason, there is no justification for defileing God's temple because these bodies are not ours they are Gods and we are suppose to use our bodies to glorify God.

Now I don't think people who get tattoos are bad people they are just not following what I Believe to be the truth. Im not saying that I am right or that any one is wrong this is just the way I feel from reading the scripture.

I have wanted a tattoo for awhile but I have committed myself to not get one until I found the awnser for myself. So the only real way to know is to seak truth for yourself. The safest way to go is no tattoo because if there is no tattoo then there is no question but if you feel the need to get a tattoo find the truth for yourself.

The bible will not lie and will not change so that is a good place to go for all your question.

-May God Bless You All-

Hi JesusHelper,
I once thought about getting one or some.
That was back when I was in the army.
What held me back was that I believed that tattoos were desecrating God's temple, my body.
I was almost ready to change my mind after seeing some friends get nice looking tattoos.
Then I saw quite a few that were horribly done and some that were far beyond good taste and ugly as sin to boot.
I saw that a lot of people I could never associate with have tattoos.
That turned me off for awhile because it began to appear that most criminal type people were getting tattoos.
Later I thought that was silly for all sort of people had them.
Then a friend wanted to have a large tattoo removed because it now embarrassed him and he could not appear in public with his shirt off.
It was a lovely, sexy picture of a former girl friend and he was getting married to a different woman. The old girl friend had married someone else.
I began to think that if I got a tattoo or 2 I might later want to have it removed and that was a tough thing to do.
As it turned out I never did get one.
I now see nothing that would cause me to think that having a tasteful, decent tattoo done would be a sin.
Peace and kindness,
Fred

1 Cor. 6:19-20
19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?
20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

Do you think that getting a tattoo is right? If you do then why wouldn't God have put them on your vody in the first place?

1 Cor. 6:19-20
19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?
20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

Do you think that getting a tattoo is right? If you do then why wouldn't God have put them on your vody in the first place?

Leviticus chapter 19, verse 28

I wouldn't recommend you do that... Look up the history of where tatoos came from...

Sometimes if we were not careful we will lone to do things that has a bad spiritual meaning to it...

Be careful... everything is not innocent.

1 Cor. 6:19-20
19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?
20 For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

do you think that getting a tattoo is right? if you do then why wouldnt God have put them on your vody in the first place?

That verse is talking about uniting your body with a temple prostitute and making God's temple one flesh with a demon's temple. It has nothing to do with tattoos.

There is no truth to the statement about temple prostitutes. I would encourage you to go back and run more reference before making statements like this.
God bless you.

There is no truth to the statement about temple prostitutes. I would encourage you to go back and run more reference before making statements like this.
God bless you.

1 Corinthians 6:15 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! 16 Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, “The two will become one flesh.” 17 But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit.
18 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. 19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

The entire context is about sex with prostitutes. In Paul's day, prostitutes plied their trade to raise money for the pagan temples that employed them. You do the math.

Personally I think that tattoos make then human body ugly.
God gave most of us a beautiful body.
Why mess it up with pictures, symbols, and in some cases filthy art or words?
I girl I am aware of had a magnificent body that was easily seen at the beach when she wore he bikini.
But she had tattoos place on her body and ruined it.
She now wears a smock when at the beach because she realizes what she has done.
Peace and kindness,
Fred

God gave most of us a beautiful body.

Fred
Fred,

LOL.. I don't know what beach YOU go to, but... the ones on the east coast.. I don't know. Pretty sad displays of the human body and no shame whatsoever about it. ( there are some exceptions but in general.. ) :D
I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. There is a verse in the OT about putting marks on your body and God said NOT to. We aren't under the law but I personally wouldn't do it. AND I don't want my kids to do it. For ME, it is identifying with the world and we are called to be separate and holy. I don't think it is a sin, but I don't like them. Could be because of the way my generation was raised.. I don't know. I guess this is one of those times where I would use this verse:

1 corinthians 10:23 "Everything is permissible"--but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"--but not everything is constructive.

I just don't think being covered in tattoos and peircings looks like you are trying to separate from this world system. But I don't think looking like you just stepped out of the 1800's is a good look for a Christian either. ( you know women who won't cut their long locks no matter how old they are, won't color their hair, won't put on a little makeup for heaven sakes) The Lord wants us to be salt and light. We should be attractive to people outside of the church not weird looking. There is a happy medium.

But my boys think I'm just a "square". And I'm even more a "square" when I say "square". They shake their heads and say "you're weird, mom".

fred,

lol..i don't know what beach you go to, but...the ones on the east coast..i dunno. Pretty sad displays of the human body and no shame whatsoever about it. ( there are some exceptions but in general..) :d
i guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. There is a verse in the ot about putting marks on your body and god said not to. We aren't under the law but i personally wouldn't do it. And i don't want my kids to do it. For me, it is identifying with the world and we are called to be seperate and holy. I don't think it is a sin, but i don't like them. Could be because of the way my generation was raised..i don't know. I guess this is one of those times where i would use this verse:

1 corinthians 10:23 "everything is permissible"--but not everything is beneficial. "everything is permissible"--but not everything is constructive.

I just don't think being covered in tattoos and peircings looks like you are trying to seperate from this world system. But i don't think looking like you just stepped out of the 1800's is a good look for a christian either. ( you know women who won't cut their long locks no matter how old they are, won't color their hair, won't put on a little makeup for heaven sakes) the lord wants us to be salt and light. We should be attractive to people outside of the church not weird looking. There is a happy medium.

But my boys think i'm just a "square". And i'm even more a "square" when i say "square". They shake their heads and say "you're weird, mom".

Amen!!

There is no truth to the statement about temple prostitutes. I would encourage you to go back and run more reference before making statements like this.
God bless you.

Thanks for the reddie. It's been a while since somebody gave me a bogus one of those. Don't worry, I'm not one of those who gives them back in retaliation. But I suggest you take a look at the guidelines for using them before you do that to somebody else.

I don't care if you "agree" with the translation or not; that was the New International Version, and I gave you the full context of the verse to show what it meant. It really doesn't matter whether you like it or agree or not, that's what the text says.

LOL... LOL...
I still think that God gave us a beautiful body, but...
How many take good care of it?
OBVIOUSLY many have not and do not.
There are quite a few very ugly bodies that can be seen shopping in places like Walmart and Kmart. You don't need to go to a beach to see them.
BUT...
There are still those folks who do take good care of their bodies.
Unfortunately not enough do so. The USA is one of the countries that has a very high percentage of obese people of all ages.
I must admit that I was one of them for several years.
I tipped the scales at 226 pounds. For a short man that is a lot of fat to pack around.
Now I weigh 134 pounds and know what a relief it is to have cast off a lot of weight.
Peace and kindness,
Fred.

Fred,

WOW! Good for YOU!

1 Corinthians 6:15 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! 16 Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, “The two will become one flesh.” 17 But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit.
18 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. 19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.

The entire context is about sex with prostitutes. In Paul's day, prostitutes plied their trade to raise money for the pagan temples that employed them. You do the math.
Dave, take off the blinders! The NIV is the most grossly misinterpreted translation there is! It scares me that you're willing to base your doctrinal views on such trash. #1. The NIV denies the blood. That's all I need to see to know it is full of poison, and needs to be avoided at all costs. Your answers are a prime example.

Poppa,

I take it you are a big KJV guy? You should check out Dave's resume before you disagree too much. I personally love KJV.

I don't agree with everything Dave says... but I think I'm scared for you for saying that to him. Hee hee. Good luck with all THAT.

Dave,

Enjoy! :D

Dave, take off the blinders! The NIV is the most grossly misinterpreted translation there is! It scares me that you're willing to base your doctrinal views on such trash. #1. The NIV denies the blood. That's all I need to see to know it is full of poison, and needs to be avoided at all costs. Your answers are a prime example.

I use the NIV because it's convenient. My answers are based on the Greek text. How much Greek do YOU read? I gave you the entire context of the passage, which you still haven't addressed. Here it is in the KJV:

15Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. 16What? Know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? For two, saith he, shall be one flesh. 17But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. 18Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

You may (or may not) notice that it says exactly the same thing as the NIV: the subject is joining God's temple (your body) to a prostitute, and has nothing to do with tattoos, smoking or anything else. Instead of hiding behind "I don't agree with your translation," why don't you deal with the actual passage?

I use the NIV because it's convenient. My answers are based on the Greek text. How much Greek do YOU read? I gave you the entire context of the passage, which you still haven't addressed. Here it is in the KJV:

15Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. 16What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. 17But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. 18Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

You may (or may not) notice that it says exactly the same thing as the NIV: the subject is joining God's temple (your body) to a prostitute, and has nothing to do with tattoos, smoking or anything else. Instead of hiding behind "I don't agree with your translation," why don't you deal with the actual passage?

It will not be fruitful to debate with you, and I am not going to. I can see that your feathers are easily ruffled. I will pray for you, and I'm sorry I offended you. God bless you.

It will not be fruitful to debate with you, and I am not going to. I can see that your feathers are easily ruffled. I will pray for you, and I'm sorry I offended you. God bless you.

Oh, that's good. Typical, but good. Translation: "I don't have an answer, can't read Greek, my comments on translations are based on something I read somewhere, I can't actually deal with the passage because it really does say what you claim it does but I can't admit that.

I'm not the one whose feathers are ruffled; I find stuff like you presented amusing. Instead of the above cop-out, why don't you answer some of the questions? I'm sure I'm not the only one who would like to hear your reply.

Trust me, it takes a LOT more than what you came up with to offend me. But just so we each understand where the other is, let me explain your "NIV denies the blood" comment. It revolves around Colossians 1:14, which in the KJV says "in whom we have redemption through his blood," whereas the NIV doesn't have "through his blood." Based on that, there are those who claim that the NIV denies the blood of Jesus.

How'd I do?

There is a verse in the OT about putting marks on your body and God said NOT to.
And of course, God was talking about tattoos... (Actually, God wasn't talking about tattoos as we know them.)

My parents used that verse as proof that God did not want me to get my ears pierced. "If God had wanted you to have holes in your ears, He would have created you that way."

1 corinthians 10:23 "Everything is permissible"--but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"--but not everything is constructive.
My parents used that verse as proof that God did not want me to attend high school dances. I couldn't even go to the prom. Was that a valid use for that verse? Do you think people pull out that verse and use it for incorrect religious monitoring of others? I would rather have had my parents tell me exactly why they themselves did not want me to go to dances, rather than lay the blame on God.

And of course, God was talking about tattoos.... (Actually, God wasn't talking about tattoos as we know them.)

My parents used that verse as proof that God did not want me to get my ears pierced. "If God had wanted you to have holes in your ears, He would have created you that way."

My parents used that verse as proof that God did not want me to attend high school dances. I couldn't even go to the prom. Was that a valid use for that verse? Do you think people pull out that verse and use it for incorrect religious monitoring of others? I would rather have had my parents tell me exactly why they themselves did not want me to go to dances, rather than lay the blame on God.

WG,

We are not under the law but I just wouldn't do it. I explained why in my post. And my dad wouldn't let me go to the prom either.. or dances. I t was stupid and still is in my opinion. We all bring our upbringing with us and our generations way of looking at things. I still think the verse I used by Paul applies here.

I do NOT think it is a sin. But it also doesn't separate ourselves from this world. Sorry WG... but when you see someone covered with tattoos and piercings... do you automatcially say "OH! they must be a Christian". That is all I am saying...

do you automatcially say "OH! they must be a Christian". That is all i am saying....
So just who do you "automatically" say is a Christian? My nephew has piercings and a few tattoos and, no, I can't look into his heart, but he attends church at least weekly, helps old ladies across the street, and is a good husband. He's not really a Christian because of the tattoos and piercings?

Could I "automatically" say my former coworker who is kind to everyone and who is respectful to authority and who has a wonderful marriage and who takes food to her church for special dinners and potlucks and who attends her church faithfully and who prays several times a day is a Christian?

WG,

I was just saying it wasn't a great look as a Christian in our culture. Why? Because while we men and women look at the outward appearance, BUT GOD looks at the heart. Thankfully! Please check out all I have said regarding the topic. I do NOT think what I have said regarding the tattoo's is worth arguing about

I ALSO stated CLEARLY that looking like one stepped out of the 19th century wasn't a great look for a Christian either. We are called to be salt and light. We should see us and watch us and want it. I didn' say it JESUS did.

It isn't a sin to have a tatto, it isn't a sin... and one more time just in case you missed what I said... it isn't a sin.

P.S. It isn't a sin to be COVERED in them either.

I was just sayin it wasn't a great look as a Christian in our culture. Why? because while we men and women look at the outward appearance, BUT GOD looks at the heart. Thankfully!
Yes, thankfully. Unfortunately, humans, even Christians, judge a person by what they see -- tattoos, piercings, clothing, how fat they are, what car they drive, ethnicity, race...


Could I "automatically" say my former coworker who is kind to everyone and who is respectful to authority and who has a wonderful marriage and who takes food to her church for special dinners and potlucks and who attends her church faithfully and who prays several times a day is a Christian?
She's Hindu.

I think we talked about your hindu friend before. If she rejects Jesus Christ as her savior... you know where I stand as far a salvation.

Could you tell your friend that she is a kind, sweet and a dear person... sure. Can you love your friend dearly... sure. Should you call her a Christian? Does she own Christ as her Lord and savior..

Could you tell your friend that she is a kind, sweet and a dear person...sure.
The discussion was about appearances.

WG,

Dumplin, Darlin, DEAR,

I didn't say that man looks at the outward appearance but God looks at the heart... the Bible SAID it.
Whether it is right that man does this has nothing to do with it. Christians, non Christians, different faiths, no faith, red, yellow, black and white... DO IT. This is ONE of the reasons we advise people in this country to wear a suite and tie when applying for a decent job.

THEREFORE,
I do NOT think it is using wisdom to have tattoo's and piercings on your body AFTER you become a Christian.

Is it a sin? NO.

When DO you think what the Apostle Paul said in Corithians would be applicable?


***** NOTE****** Where is Fred? I get worried when he doesn't say anything for a couple of days. He is like Santa Claus to me. I go to bed, wake up in the morning and he has left me ( us) some interesting tidbits to ponder and debate.

Nothing but sticks and ashes for two whole mornings.

THEREFORE,
I do NOT think it is using wisdom to have tattoo's and piercings on your body AFTER you become a Christian.
My nephew, who has tattoos and piercings and is a faithful Christian, believes that, as long as God looks at his heart, he doesn't mind what anyone else thinks.

WG,

And I gave the OP my opinion and I gave biblical reasons I have that opinion. WHY? Because He ASKED for opinions.

Your "nephew" is correct. It is between him and the Lord Jesus.

Your "nephew" is correct. It is betweeen him and the Lord Jesus.
Why the quote marks around the word nephew?

I don't know... because I read in one thread that Jesushelper WAS your nephew? ( you all could have been teasing) Either way... I agree with your nephew.

I don't know...because i read in one thread that Jesushelper WAS your nephew?? ( you all could have been teasing) Either way....i agree with your nephew.
I was talking about my biological nephew in western NY State.

Years ago I "adopted" Jesushelper as my cyber nephew when we were members of another Q&A site. We are not related by blood, but by love and affection. I have two cyber sons -- one in Odense, Denmark, and the other in Northern Japan. Both have practiced their English by emailing/IMing with me for maybe ten years. Both had come with questions to the same site where Jesushelper and I met.

Not going to lie, I didn't read through all eight pages so I may just be parroting someone else.

I believe that our bodies are God's temple, as others have related. If we get a tattoo that honors Him, I don't think it's sin. Getting naked ladies and foul language - that's something else :)