This is a great take. I am a Christian now but I haven’t always been. And I am heavily tattooed. On my hands to so it’s impossible for me to hide. But I’ve come to terms with it and with other Christians who take issue. I’ve stopped getting angry with them and tried to explain the division being worse than the “issue.” I have a tattoo that even now I consider blasphemous. But to me it proves a point. And I use it to tell people that if the lord can reach someone like me with a mark on me like this then he can reach and speak anyone.
I like the way you have become patient with people who judge you with your passed decisions (We ALL have made them - Glad mine aren't so visible😊). I have heard of person who had their tattoo Supernaturally removed on their conversion. My only suggestion to you is that you pray about it and seek YHWH's will with the way forward. Blessings.
I have a tattoo that I got in honor of God and as a reminder that I lay my anxiety at Jesus’s feet (on my ankle). I don’t show it off at church because I have gotten really nasty comments about it before. The division is far worse than the “issue,” and there are many other “issues” like these: alcohol, what is acceptable in the marriage bed, biblical feasts, etc. . The best medicine for division is to walk in love and know what the Bible says. ❤️
I remember a while ago I was going to get a Jesus tattoo. A woman I worked with (who was a pastor) simply asked, "Why do you want to get that?" I answered, "So people can see I follow Jesus" and she replied, "Why do you need a tattoo to do that? They should see it with how you treat them and through your actions"....Didn't get the tattoo
If you want a Jesus tattoo go ahead . Just treating people right doesn't necessarily mean you follow Jesus. You can be a good kind person and not follow Jesus. If you treated me with kindness I would just say " wow, what a wonderful person". I would not jump straight to religion.
I follow Jesus with every bit of my being, the God of mercy, The Lion of Judah who forgave the sin of the world is far more concerned with what comes out of my heart than what gets inked on my skin… heavily tattooed, always will be, 100% a disciple of the Great I Am; people should look to their own houses before casting judgement on their brethren because they got some color put on their skin, maybe if they did, our world would look a little different. Edit: It’s also interesting that many people in the Christian faith would call your female friend being a pastor completely against biblical teaching… just a thought
@@tom726 True, but when someone's life is filled, to some degree or another, with the Holy Spirit, it's obvious. I'm often convinced of a person's relationship with Christ when I don't even know them, just because they exude the spirit of God. People might not even know what it is about you, but know that there's something different about you. Something they could either be attracted to or repulsed by. Having a relationship with Christ isn't just a surface thing, but is at the very core of your being. I'll never get a tattoo, but couldn't care less if someone else wants them. (Also, I completely differentiate between religion and knowing God personally.)
Maybe.... discussion and education one on one should t be confused with a monologue discussion like this channel. Great lessons, and great discussion in this video, but we should (as a church body) be able to have a civil discussion about this. Iron sharpens iron, and we can get to the best discussions and direction this way....
I stand corrected. I have been a Christian a very long time. I have judged people that as Christians have gotten tattoos because of this scripture. I have no tattoos don't plan to get any but will not judge people who have any. Thanks for this teaching and reminding us what our behavior should be as Christians. God bless you and your family.
@Studd Muffin This is talking about murdering... pretty clear... to take it uber-literal to the extreme is ridiculous and not the intention of the author.
@Studd Muffin Evolution is compatible with the Bible, and there is no "twisting" involved, just looking at the context. Truly studying the Bible. Have you ever read the works of John Walton?
@Studd Muffin It is in the context though. Gen 9:5 talks about "accounting for the "life" of human beings," which indicates that when it refers to taking blood in verse 6, it is referring to murder.
My brother! Thank you for such a good word on this matter! It was so wise and with so much love!! I'm a 78 year old great grandmother who was convicted by your wise counsel. I've been guilty of judging others who have gotten tattoos after salvation and wondered how God looks at it. Thank you for your wise words!! God bless you!
Getting tattoos is a recent trend (the last 20 years, before then, tattoos were associated with criminals and evil). Basketballers and soccer players made it fashionable - think Allen Iverson. It just displays the progressive downward and decaying state of sin and fallen man. Now that doodling on your skin is mainstream and cultural, people have been desensitized. Honor your bodies people, as it belongs to the Lord! It is good to judge and perceive wrong rightly. Being judgmental on the other hand, is something entirely different.
@@hman9581 So, follow ALL levitical law? Cut your hair a certain way, and don't round off a beard? Sounds like what keeps the Jewish people bound to "tradtitions of men". Consider the reason behind the interpretation used in Leviticus 19. I would venture to say today's believers who tattoo themselves, don't do so to reach out to other false dieties on behalf of their deceaded relatives. Read Romans 6:14 brother.
@@macdaddyp8437 Did I say Christians should follow Levitical laws? Perhaps you are pushing a simple argument and are inferring. The "Old testament laws" can be broken down into subsets. We have "Moses' Laws", which are the Ten commandments, Levitical laws, and general principles written in the old covenant. These general principles are good guides for Christians. Jesus said "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." - this is a direct passage from the old testament and should be followed by new testament believers. On the other hand, Levitical laws are more associated with ceremonial rituals. In the old testament tattooing is associated with the occult. It is a way to dishonor the body. It is quite trivial to doodle on oneself.
@@hman9581 It mingling your blood with ink or some type of pigment and that's not really good or healthy and if a person just feels they need one it's a sing of obsession because most folks get two or ten , it's still a sin. Just like tobacco smoking and using substances ,just with less consequences as it make you want it to be seen. I would never advise any one to get a tattoo knowing what I know nowadays of it being a biblical law against them. He said he wouldn't encourage tattoos,but he wouldn't judge those who already have them and I can understand that but some folks have them in some of the most strange places like lower back and cleavage neck and face and they go out of the way to have them seen.n🌜💯🌛
I told my son, "No tattoos' 'till his 18th birthday . He got one, which he designed...and it was good. That next Sunday , he comes rolling into the church foyer , tat fully visible. I was standing and talking w a church pastor and a few other men. He called my son over and said, "Do you know what the bible says about tattoos?" The men all waited. "Yes, it's in the same passage that says, "You shall not take a razor to your head, or cut the edges of your beard.', in Leviticus" The pastor had a shaved head, and wore a nicely trimmed beard, as did some of the mean in the group. "Right?" The pastor said, "Got me" my son smiled, and walked away.
@@fayeking5066 So. The person with a pic of dead child in his/her rememberance is narcissistic? Or the person who has Christ on them as another way to keep themselves further convicted on a daily basis is narcissistic?.. You are applying your own presumed motives for why someone gets them, which is not the same reason for why people get them. Most get them as a form of expressing themselves. If that is narcissistic? Then any form of self expression is narcissistic..
Late to the dance. I'm a tattoo artist. I think this is an amazing stream. Nutshell. I live in a small town with 4 tattoo shops. I have rules. Illuminati eyes no. False gods. No. Etc. These decisions make my clients question why I refuse to do them. That can open important dialogue. I think if I were in an area or church where they would cause division it would be different. I also don't disagree with anyone who the holy spirit calls to not get them or do them. Thanks brother !
@2013name all tattoos are trash, find me a virginal girl who has a tattoo - lmao, you'll find a unicorn first. Its one of the easiest ways to spot a degenerate today.
@@ketchupking9972 wow, no words for your ignorance. Not to mention your view towards tattooed people? Do you see a tattooed person and assume they are a degenerate? If that's the case, would you go out of your way to minister to them?
@@craigyerger203 You have no need to apologize for them. I agree with the original commenter, but like Mike said the important thing is unity. You think tattoos are bad based on your conscience, we think they're okay. The important thing is that we don't flaunt our tattoos and that you don't speak like the first response in this thread.
Aesthetics should prevent one from the world of tattoos and keeping us in the outside, not used as a means of evaluating within the system. otherwise, it’s like a culinary arts standard used to evaluate the best Velveeta “cheese”
Thank you for covering this. As a Christian I was worried about my silly youth and putting tattoos on my body. I had someone tell me tattoos were wrong/bad in Christian faith. And though I will more than likely never put another one on my body, I am no longer worried about the ones I have.
@revolutionsendtimeschurch AMEN! Apostle Paul was fighting against the Judeaizer, but he still reminded us in the name of God, that circumcision and the law are of great value.
I was drugged out drunk biker trash and have a lot of tattoos . A lot of brothers and sisters that come to Christ may not look like us but it is our duty to love those well kept and well dressed straight folks . Just because they don't have long hair , ear rings or ink is no reason not to love them . So we need to love those who don't ride a bike or never done time , they were still sinners and we better love them .
This is my favourite comment on this chat. I like how u flipped the perspective to show even those neat folks are wicked and need Christ despite their clean outward appearance. Good u you for this comment i love it, and by no means a i a biker or habe many tatoos, ( got 3) but just well done
Yes, we are ALL sinners no matter what we look like! Before coming to Christ, everyone thought I was such a nice person, great personality, ect ect. I kept hearing what a good girl I was. I needed to hear how sinful I was instead. In my 20's though, I started doing something I really should not have done...and after a few years God got a hold of me, I read the Bible and realized how dirty and sinful I was! The repentance Jesus gifted me really made me realize how gracious He is. ~ Thank you for your testimony.
I have been a Christian since 1976 and have never been tattooed, but when I prayed for my Grandson when he was 4 yrs old and couldn’t speak, the Lord gave me this verse for his parents to only speak Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” Well, within 2 weeks those words were my Grandsons very first words! When he grew up he got that verse on his left arm! I love it!!🙏❤️
I came to my church with piercings. My friends kept telling me to take them off because they are wrong in the eyes of God but I never felt that conviction when reading the bible. However, because my pastor asked me to I took them off. Not because I changed my mind but because I decided to honor my authority since many people in my church don't like it and could judge me. I would be hurting them. So I totally agree 100% to this message.
Jewish women traditionally had nose rings. Were they piercings? I don't think they are "wrong in the eyes of God." Your pastor is not in that kind of authority over you. He is there to feed and tend the flock. His job is not to micromanage people in his congregation. It would be different if you were dressing immodestly, or living in some kind of sin.
I always said as a Christian that I would never get a tattoo. But division came between my only child and I. We used to always say to each other "I love you infinity and beyond." When I found out that I may not have long left to live on this earth I wanted a special way for him to know how much I loved him despite our separation. On my right outside of my wrist I had a tattoo put there that says "I love you, with the infinity symbol under that, and beyond under that. So that when he saw me in the casket that would be the last thing he would see and always remember. It is an act of profound love and that no matter what happened between us, my love for him infinity and beyond never stopped.
This was so good! Thank you - I’ve always known I was the “weaker brother,” ( the one with many scruples,) but the more I study the Bible, the stronger I get. I appreciate your podcast so much!
Amen, such a great video👏🏼 I was a tattoo artist for 9years Making a Very good income. I also became a believer in the last 2 years of my tattooing, it was my OWN conviction to stop and to stop getting them. As I read the word of God EVERY day , praying and fasting. Slowing my conviction was met with me and my family to stop. I not against tattoos, but most of all we must love and slow to speak. We must not cause division as believers and use a Righteous Judgement.
Amen brother! I'm not a tattoo artist but I am covered in tattoos and similar to you, once I got saved, I had a conviction to stop getting tattoos & so, I repented for them and stopped getting tattoos all together!! I still have temptations here and there to get more but I take that thought captive and pray through it because I want to listen to the Spirit and not the flesh. Thank you for sharing your story! It's comforting to know I'm not the only one who had that conviction. Many blessings to you and your family!!!
I read stories of exorcists talking about people getting possessed from the Tattoo ink, because it was blessed by Witches or through other dark ceremonies. They even used Snake venom for Tattoos.
Remember context always :) This scripture was talking about eating pork since eating pork was an unclean practice to the Jews hence the what goes IN your body not what goes ON your body! Both very distinct and different words, shalom!
@@danf2 I think the point is that there is a internal spiritual condition that is what leads to using of drugs and needles in the first place. The spiritual condition leads to the outward act. That is the point. What is in the heart is prior and is what leads to the unclean act.
Fantastic teaching! I especially loved when you started talking about the Romans verses, which go way beyond the subject of tattoos. You've been blessed with a gift of teaching, along with the graciousness and love needed to be this effective. You've reached into my heart so many times, and I thank you, and God, for it!
I worked as a missionary in Egypt. I discovered that for centuries Christians have tattooed a small cross on the underside of their right hand wrist. The origins why they do this are obscure, some say it was imposed by the Muslims to pay jizia tax if they refused to convert to Islam. After returning to the UK both my daughter and I have this tattoo to identify with the persecuted church in Egypt. Thanks for the video, you gave a very balanced point of view.
Interesting. What may have been a mark used to persecute became a badge of honor for the Church. Working in East Africa, I saw how different denominations each had their own Christian greeting. In some ways it provided unity among the Church, but it also caused some division, forcing people to frequently confront their different traditions. Some missionaries disliked this because they were essentially forced into using these greetings. It raised interesting questions of how and when Christians should set themselves apart, and how to bridge gaps between Christians of different traditions. From my perspective, most Christians were using these greetings in loving ways, and would often use the greeting which they knew corresponded to the other person's denomination, which to me stood as a sign of honoring your brothers and sisters in Christ.
It's important to repent of this, we are not supposed to be getting them honestly..cutting into the flesh given to us with artificial dye is not ideal or okay..this teaching is honestly off base and too lax to be honest..
What is your motivation for tattoos? We’re you under the influence of alcohol or drugs - I would say narrow is the way - it is easy to take the oath of rebellion and sin - watch some ray comfort because there are many that are a hypocrite but if you have Jesus in your heart you would have new desires nor worldly desires
Thank you for discussing this and for always working through the scripture for your conclusions. While I understand that many people don’t like tattoos and I hide mine if I’m going to be around those that would be offended, I can tell you that the only reason I listened to the folks that led me to Christ is because they looked and dressed like me. I think we often forget that there are all kinds of people in the world and sometimes it takes different kinds of people to reach different kinds of people. Thank the Lord for the variety!
Sometimes when we think we have a hard and fast “rule” about something like tattoos, along comes an exception. A while back I was in the midst of treatment for breast cancer. My husband slipped out and got a tattoo of a pink ribbon with my name underneath on his arm. He did it to show his love, support and faithfulness. It still touches and humbles me. Because...he doesn’t even really like tattoos.
I can understand that but if my husband had done that I would be furious and make him get rid of it. I’m a breast cancer survivor and I can’t stand the pink ribbons, just a constant reminder of breast cancer commercialized and the reminder of it in general. But I’m glad that do you see it for what it is, as loving support from your husband.
I have a tatoo. I got it before I was saved. It represents my old life apart from God. I wouldn't get another. Now I like it for a new reason. It is a good reminder of what I was before Jesus rescued me. It reminds me to be thankful and feel blessed. It reminds me to focus on my faith.
I have been a Christian for less than 2 years and I am in my 60’s. I have recently had a tattoo on the underside of my forearm that is of a rugger cross with the letters I B T C on it. As I still suffer from mental health issues and even as a Christian have tried to end my life, I had the tattoo done primarily as part of my safety plan to be used when I next (if it happens) dark place. Although I am not that keen on “positive affirmations” I will use my tattoo for that purpose as well.. The initials sat to me that I Belong To Christ.
Yes, let's love those who disagree! That's why I rarely share my view, because I don't want to hurt people who have tattoos. But since everyone else is talking about it here anyway... Millions-- perhaps more than a _billion_ --people around the world are disgusted by tattoos. Why would a Christ-follower want to offend people and put up a stumbling block? No one is offended if you don't have a tat.
I appreciate your perspective on this whole topic. I too ended up conflicted as whether it would create a stumbling block or not to witnessing. I have tattoos, pre-born again, but I wanted to get more after I was saved and after getting out of the military. What was the one thing I did settle on is whether I could better use that money to further the kingdom of God through giving.
I think the majority of comments here a very sad 😣 did you all not hear? BEAR with one another, trying to have the last word is just pride messing with you smh. Thank you for the apologetics Sir, the Bible references have fed so much more than resolution.
@@colekurtz8295 You might be onto something there. I've noticed that some folks almost relish the opportunity to pass judgement on tattoos and piercings, without even looking at the context of it. I have 4, one of which has Ps 46:10 and 2Cor 12:9 on it and the only person to correctly identify the texts was an ex junkie - not one pastor has known it and they always ask. I think that says it all.
@@disaffectednarcmagnet2305 all tattoos are trash, find me a virginal girl who has a tattoo - lmao, you'll find a unicorn first. Its one of the easiest ways to spot a degenerate today.
I have a few tattoos I got after being saved. I got my first at 55. I always said I would never get one because I couldn't imagine anything I would want on my body forever. I ride a motorcycle so on each outside of the length of each forearm that drivers on either side can see, I have LOVED with the O being a crown of thorns and the other I have the verse john 3:16 in the shape of a cross. In California we can split lanes, so as I sit between cars at a light, I pray for the drivers and passengers that God may open the eyes and hearts to the gospel message I have written on my arms. Mike had a good point about being careful not to push non believers away If the don't agree with tattoos, but the opposite is also true, that in today's generation there are millions of non believers that have tattoos that might never think about a relationship with Jesus For fear of being judged. Paul also says to be all things to all people. to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; I Corinthians 9:21. I can't wait to get to heaven and see out of the hundreds of people I have prayed for, who accepted the gospel. I will gladly mark my body for the eternal life of just one soul. I think the bigger question is why my brothers or sisters would judge me negatively. That is something that would need to be addressed in their hearts. The bottom line of this message on both sides of the discussion is to agree to disagree, in love. Thank you Mike. God bless your ministry.
Man, this video is a Godsend, and not just for the tattoo subject (of which I have several). This message is really about how we internally deal with those "of weaker conscience", which has been a massive struggle for me. This video answered a major question in my heart. Thanks 🙏🏻
LOL...I must be that old lady you were thinking of back in your youth! Bless you Mike, you have caused me to think twice about how I've felt. I do have a loved one who has numerous tatoo's whom I love dearly, I've kept my mouth shut on how I feel because I know there are more important issues to keep straight...like the Gospel.
I agree that there are more important issues to focus on, but for those of us who disapprove of tattoos, it doesn't mean keeping quiet is always the best strategy. The tattoo fad came along in part because the threat of social censure that as recently as twenty years ago kept in check people who might have toyed with the idea of tattoos faded away, based largely on the feeble reasoning of "who are you to judge?". Well, I'm a member of my society, that's who I am to judge. And I'd have to be blind not to notice the close association between tattoos and the other forms of degeneracy that blight my society. So while I think it's better to avoid condemning people for their choice, we still have a responsibility to "judge" - to form a judgement, to draw a distinction between what is beautiful and commendable and what is ugly and imprudent.
@@danieltemelkovski9828 ... I would agree. It's incredibly sad the direction society has taken, and we are called to judge rightly and biblically. When I was young (1950's) only men who had served in WW2 & Korea would have a tatoo (2 at most). They would usually get them on nights they were on leave and also very drunk. Not exactly something to brag about. How did it turn into the free for all it became in the late 90's(?) is beyond me. I will still choose to share the gospel with others...tatoos or not.
@@bonniemoerdyk9809 "Incredibly sad" barely captures the extent of the catastrophic cultural decline, imo. But it is what it is, and will probably get worse before it gets better (if it ever does, though I think given enough time it almost surely will). For the time being, we're just going to have grin and bear it (to keep from going crazy, if nothing else).
This made me feel so much more at ease. I know it's an older video, but I don't come from a Christian home and was baptized at 24. I got a tattoo before then, nothing profane or anti Christian, but it weighed heavy on my soul as I've been trying to walk with christ for 6 years. As you can imagine I have many stumbling blocks, living a long time without the lord in my life. Thank you, Mike Winger. You're one of the very few channels that represents Christianity as it is and not what you want it to be. You truly help me with living a more biblical life.
Examples like yours are one reason I believe that those of us who disapprove of tattoos should not bite our tongues. Even if tattoos are not unbiblical (I can't even begin to compete with Mike on biblical knowledge), it's surely telling that people who turn to Christ after getting tattoos somehow still instinctively feel there is something "off" about their tattoos, as though they are a barrier to holiness. It hardly seems a stretch to conclude that the less tattoos people have in their lives, the more Christ they'll have.
My husband & I just moved to Mexico to retire. When applying for permanent residency (while keeping our U.S. citizenship), the rule they had for photos was no tattoos or jewelry. I wear minimal jewelry & have no tattoos, but I took all of my jewelry off while we were there. It gave me pause to think that perhaps (rightly or wrongly) they associate tattoos with bad people. Tattoos have bad connotations in certain circles. Further, although I judge no one, I personally feel convicted about it. My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, & I do as much as I can to take care of it.
Tattoos are often gang signs, it is likely easier to say no tattoos altogether then try to figure out the hidden meanings that many of them have. As another comment pointed out, many people in the US have used it as an outlet for rebellion. So we would expect a correlation between tattoos and bad behavior, but that of course isn't causation. I ultimately agree with your sentiment. I won't prejudice against people with tattoos, but also won't be getting any.
This, like so many of your ‘biblical advice’ pieces is helpful and current for me. Of course, any of us can research these things but an educator’s training and gifting result in a bringing together of information into learnable and dependable ‘packets’. So helpful; so gratefully received. The Lord please bless your ministry. CE
Mike, happy birthday! You have a maturity beyond your years, and I so appreciated how you handled this issue--as I am grateful for so many topics that you have covered. Thanks for not being reactive or fearful as you handle tough issues! God's blessings on you this year! You are ministering well. May I also just add that I think your reason for not getting tattoos is very servant-hearted. And, like you said repeatedly in your video, your attitude toward others is extremely important, no matter how you think of tattoos. I have never gotten a tattoo (though I think they can be fine) for the same reason as your friend: ministry in other countries. But I'd never heard someone bring out the point that, as much as we are concerned with reaching unbelievers, we should be loving our brothers and sisters in the same way. Great perspective! Thanks for that!
I love how you cover things in such a thorough way. Thank you. Tattoo issue - on the flip side, if you have a bunch of tattoos- there are plenty of people who would trust what you have to say because you have tattoos. God might use you (a person with a bunch of tattoos) to bring a person to Jesus. All things work together for those who are in Christ Jesus. It shouldn’t be about whether a person has them or does not have them. A true Christian should care about a person’s relationship with Jesus - not whether or not a person has tattoos or pink hair or wears 2 inch heels or 3 inch heels, etc. Makes me think of that song ‘I’m sorry Lord for the thing that I’ve made it when it’s all about you.’
Wow, I'm a heavily tattooed person. I was just saved last year and I struggled for so long with my tattoos and being a Christian. But you're SO right! I have since then had a personal convinction and repented for my tattoos.. and God has 100% been using me and my tattoos have become a part of my TESTIMONY now to share JESUS! God bless you sister.
Very true! I think the song you referred to is called "Heart of Worship" which is a great example of the way we as Christians should respond to both God and our fellow man/woman. Thank you for your post, not just what you said, but also how you said it.
Thanks for your input on this subject. I have recently been struggling with how Romans 14 should be lived out that came out in another Bible study, Live Full and Walk Free. Your example was great. I appreciate your ministry. I have used some of your videos in our women's group. It s so important to be able to understand what it means to live out the Word. We are living in very confusing times. I am so grateful for the Word. It is a compass.
Mike this is so great! Love this. Myself, I don’t have an issue with anyone who gets a tattoo (tastefully) or drinks alcohol (without excess). For me, I don’t do either, I just don’t want to start or to have someone else I know who is against those things to have issue with me. Other things are more important. Unity in conscience and minor doctrine is important! Of course, there are foundational doctrines in which Christians must divide from the world, or those who claim to be Christians and pervert the core doctrines.
I really appreciate your argument here. I'm 63 and I've been struggling with wanting to get a small tattoo. Dementia is almost a certainty for me. I wanted a tattoo of my children's initials so when I'm not able to remember them they can see the tattoo and know it's a permanent "remembrance" of how dear they are to me. At the same time I would never want to do anything that would go against GOD's teaching
I agree I was wholly against the idea of a Christian getting tattoos but Pastor Mike brings a different perspective I think, the only thing is I would be verrry cautious of who you let do the tattoo because I think a lot of artists have some serious demonic attachments in their lives and you don’t want that being imparted onto you, I pray you don’t go through the issue you mentioned to begin with though, God bless you April
This is so sweet. My nana passed away about two years ago now from dementia and she was so young and just such a beautiful soul.. I don’t want to make you think a certain way that goes against your relationship with Christ, but I think that if you were to get this tatto and put it in a place where only you and your children would see/know about then it wouldn’t be affecting anyone but you guys and it would be very special to your relationship with them 🤍 but of course pray over this and do your research! Praying for your health as well, the Lord has you 🙏🏼☺️
Thank you so much for this. Thank you for how broadly you studied this, that you cover the whole Bible. I especially love that you added the judgement stuff too. We can always use “the giving up our rights for the good of others” admonition. This is solid. Thank you!
Mike I really appreciate your candor and goal to be biblical and loving in your videos and responses to questions. I got my tattoo at 2O while serving in the Navy. It's a tiger, I like tigers, I think they're beautiful animals ( especially in their natural habitats). I'm 42 now and I would say at least 90% of the people I've met in that time never knew I had a tattoo. I don't announce it, I don't offer to show it unless someone asks if I have any tattoos and wants to see the design. I am not conflicted in any way about having it. And I don't believe anyone else should either. I've been convicted by the spirit in many things in my life, but this has never been one of them. I don't feel like I messed up by getting it. The tattoo would be more like a symptom than an illness if you really wanted to try to label it. The sickness was healed by the blood of Jesus and the tattoo is just a well designed scar. On a side note, I got my tattoo in la madeleine (Sp), Sardinia and the tattoo artist has a brother who at that time was a nurse in a hospital back in my home state. His face lit up when he talked about him, so God used even me getting a tattoo to touch someone's life. Don't underestimate or judge what is or isn't God's plan because you don't agree with all the pieces of the puzzle. And for those with tattoos who may feel saddened or rebuked after this video. Remember conviction comes from the Holy Spirit ( with the goal of repentance), but condemnation comes from Satan(the accuser of the brethren, with a goal of shaming and shaking you) If I understand this concept correctly. It's my belief that the spirit would only convict you in this scenario if you already felt it was wrong to get a tattoo before you got one. Any other reason and it's the enemy using yourself and others to bog you down in shame so you cannot experience the peace that passes all understanding that Jesus offers his followers. Well I guess that ends my long winded commentary. I hope this helps someone. And Mike if you feel I'm wrong in anything I've said please let me know. I'd love to discuss any issue as I truly do want to be a more rounded biblical thinker. Thanks for reading and God bless!
God bless you and thank you for taking the time to type this. I truly needed that word to remind of the difference of conviction and condemnation. I regret my tattoos and have prayed so many times to be forgiven for them and rebuked them even many times. I want to believe that they can be a testimony to how far I have come and where I was when I didn't believe or have any reason I thought to not get them. But because they are so permanent and so glaring everytime I'm in front of the mirror getting ready, it's an opportunity to be reminded that Im marked with things I now hate because of how much I love God. I can't help but to still consider it might be a reason for God to be distant from me and I just keep praying to believe He's forgiven me and I can let it go too
Hi Mike! First of all, Thanks! 'We are metal, We are family!'. 'Christian metal, love at full volume!'. This is my home church and has been since the mid eighties. Its not all that difficult to cover up your tats, wear that one conservative outfit and tone your make-up way down when you know you're going to be around people who think all that stuff is wrong. We are called to love one another and not cause our brother to stumble. If you feel the need to dress however you want regardless of where you're going and who you know you're going to be with, that's not love. That's rebellion and arrogance. There's nothing wrong with body art and other fashion statements. Just remember we are called to love one another, not create problems. Its okay to be yourself, just be considerate and respectful of who you know you're going to be with and where you're going.
sherryl henning awesome response. I have tattoos. I researched the Word and saw Gods instruction before choosing any. However, I have tattoos that are all easily covered. Why ? Because A) who are they really for ? Mine are for me. Things I love. I never wanted to be a stumbling block to another person AND I don’t want to hinder my ministry. When ever I go out to share the gospel, I don’t want someone to spend their time distracted by my outward appearance and wondering about an issue that they don’t understand yet. I just want to be able to share the Word of God uninhibited. I don’t want to cause others to stumble in judgment either. But I also don’t see a problem with having a tattoo. I however do not want them all over me.... because if they cannot be covered, I do believe it does more damage than we realize and to be ignorant of that is just foolish and negligent.
@@walkinbyhismercy you have already hindered your ministry by surrendering or compromising. You cant justify your actions with your feelings regardless right or wrong. Your actions need line up with scriptures. Then and only then can your actions be justified.
Thanks Mike for your teaching. Please keep holding fast to the trustworthy word. Even though I’be been a Christian for over 15 years I’ve only started understanding Rom 14 passage and I believe it’s a functional teaching for the church. The church circles I grew up in, encourage finding a church that has the same consciences. That’s not what Scripture teaches in Rom 14 or anywhere. It’s a little difficult to navigate within a church that wants to spell out matters of conscience for all the members and everyone practicing the same.
Mr. Winger, I just love how you study, and explain the bible. I have a tattoo on my arm, and there is times where in the ministry, people do look at me in the wrong way. I do not condemn them for that, however it helped me understand them. Thank you for that. I will begin to cover my tattoo to not make them stumble. Thank you and may God keep giving you the wisdom and knowledge.
Really loved this! Especially the part about the strong minded Christians actually looking out for the weaker ones to the point of covering up their tattoos for those people 🙌🏽 it's very biblical but not mentioned alot 😍
Thank you, pastor. I too pastor a congregation where the Word of God is studied in context. This was sound, solid teacher. The Christian police is a reality and social media has catapulted it for the whole world to see. Statements like "a true Christian does not celebrate Halloween" and similar posts can satisfy our self-righteousness and pride but...how does it help our mission to reconcile the world with God? The church needs to love this world and plead with this world rather than preaching dogma that repels rather than draw people to God. Thank you, pastor. Love your content. But what I love the most, is your spirit. You are humble, kind and deliver truth with a conciliatory rather than argumentative tone. I love your videos and recommend them to our congregation. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Signed, Gene McIntyre, grateful pastor in Bradenton, FL.
My take is...as a Christian you probably shouldn't get tattoos but there are those that got tattoos before being saved so it goes to show that God's mercy never ending
If God says to get a tattoo tho best do it. Remember Samson could not drink alchahol due to his naserian bloodline, further could he not cut his hair unlike other naserians. A Jew could do both... should they not have and followed what God told the naserians....more so not cut thier hair as specific to Samson?. We work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. We are all under our own commandments by God personally, much more so than an overall God fearing people. If you would say that God would not ask you of this, look upon the man that was told to marry a whore in the Bible and you will see it saved lives. His obedience to God was more important than the law or morality that disturbs the image of a man of God. Same as the man God told to walk around naked in the presence of all men and women. Those who JUDGED THE MAN OF GOD WERE CURSED for touching his anointed. Also as the man who preached naked for his God in the temple of that time.... simply a place to inhabit the word and spirit of God
Once again great teaching. I work in ministry in a country were the church is a lot more conservative over practice. Repeatedly I have had to deal with short term Mission Teams from America where several of the guys have large visible tattoos on their arms. We work happily with them in Gospel proclamation however we request them to wear long sleeve shirts to church to cover their tattoos. Regularly they get angry at this and say we are taking the freedom they have in Christ. I have even try to force the issue that their tattoos are visible in church, saying these people have to learn to accept them. His is so damaging the unity of the church and to mission. The message we are given is a message of reconciliation which we need to proclaim not a message of pride and anger which destroys the unity of the church. As these teams coming to proclaim the gospel or to force the local church to accept tattoos.
Spot on 100%. Same deal if you feel free to drink beer. You don’t go into a brothers house who abstains, or is a recovered alcoholic and start cracking cold ones in front of them. It’s really not that complicated. Put others before yourself… Easier said than done. God bless you all
Hey Pastor Mike, thanks for this informative video. I have several tattoos, which I had done in my early 20s. I'm a new christian and rethinking a lot of things now. I'm thinking that I may remove my arms tattoos, but keep the ones on my torso, that aren't so 'in your face'. My parents hate them, so I'm sure they'll be delighted 😉 Your channel is brilliant for new Christians. Happy New Year, all the way from the west of Ireland! 🎉
I personally wouldnt remove them. Were you a christian when you got them? They may be ugly to you now. But there is beauty even in that, it is a constant reminder that you cannot trust yourself for what you think is best for you, you should only trust in God for everything. !Test every spirit against scripture, when you recieve a teaching or revelation. ! That is my best advice for new christians. Study the culture, the speakers and the audience that scriptures were written to and practiced amongst. The spirit will peserve you.
really appreciated your desire of taking a BIBLICAL approach to this. As a pastor with a tattoo (that is easily covered up) it's great to have this reminder for my work in ministry, while also having a good biblical view of my own freedoms in Christ and how they can impact others. Keep up the great work!
Mike thank you for such incredible content. You are a blessing to my life. I hesitantly clicked on this video after just getting a tattoo recently while understanding it is not a sin, yet left with even more clarity.
Hi Rosengard, Would you mind sharing the reason you got your tattoo? You look like a younger guy - I'm a bit up there! However I'm often curious why folks do some things. Thank you
So. I have had many purity rings. And have lost them all. I plan on getting a tattoo one with the same scripture and then when i get married. The ring from my wife would cover over it symbolicly covering the for the requirement of sinless sex and the binding of us two.
@@billlewis8711 Absolutely Bill! Im in my late 20's and I consider myself artistic and very visually stimulated. I have always daydreams of tattoos since I was a young teenager but too frugal to spend money on them which is a good thing because it reflected in the quality of work I chose now vs at 18 for example. I also waited until now because I never knew what to get as a tattoo considering a lot of peoples ideas were less than desirable to me. Or I simply liked a tattoo on someone other than myself. I finally went on a trip to south america where tattoos are more affordable and I was away from my hobby in the usa so it had time to heal. The combination of events and the spontaneity in me pulled the trigger on that trip and I got "My peace I leave you, my peace I give unto you" wrapped around my ankle like an ankle band. Hope this was insightful to you.
I got tattoos when I was young and deeply depressed, perhaps as a way to show pain. It is hard to express the attraction I had to them. Now, with Christ, that attraction is completely dead! So is the depression too. Praise God! I know I am forgiven but I still feel bad about having tattoos.
Never let the devil condemn you for the past! Use your mistakes as a reminder of how far God has brought you! Repent (turn from sin) daily and have a good one!
Beloved, God has forgiven you for your tattoos! Now receive him mercy~ "I, I am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and I will not remember your sins." -Isaiah 43:25 Before coming to Christ, I spent 10+ years getting tattooed! Likewise, I find it as a way OUT and a way to escape the pain I was dealing with on the inside (abusive relationship and depression), but after I got saved, I had a conviction to stop getting tattoos, and I repented for all my tattoos! Now, my tattoos represent my old life apart from God. It is a part of my TESTIMONY & also a reminder to myself, of what I was before Jesus rescued me. It reminds me of God's GOODNESS and MERCY! What the enemy intended for harm, God will USE for good! Many blessings to you.
Hey Mike, I agree with everything you have said completely, but have one question that I'd like to know your thoughts on: What about applying Biblical principles to our own lives? For instance, I believe you referenced our bodies being temples of the Holy Spirit, however, Paul also wrote that "our bodies are not our own." This is why, personally, I've never bothered getting a tatoo or piercing. The question I always ask myself is: why? The last thing I'd want to do is do anything without a good reason - from vanity or to be cool - since God is wise and reasonable. I know that it is not always explicitly wrong... but I wanted to share this to see what you thought. My opinions on this seem much more nuanced, as I still think that everyone should follow their own conviction without fear of judgement. However, my body not being my own means to me that I should also do my best to take care of it, eating healthy, and not using it inappropriately; if only for the sake of facilitating my continued ability to preach the Gospel. So what are your thoughts? If I belong to God(body and spirit), are there any wise or good reasons for getting tatoos or piercings?
One good reason for getting a temporary tattoo: you are going in for knee surgery on your left knee. On your right knee, use a Sharpie to write NOT THIS SIDE!
Thank you for this video. As someone heavily tattooed and as someone who just started going back to church after 2 decades I was scared to death my first time back to church. I felt truly like I was gonna be rejected and that I wouldn’t be allowed in church. However everyone, complete strangers, were so welcoming and nice and seemed genuinely excited that me, my wife and my kids were there. It was so overwhelming joy and peace and I’ve never felt more spiritually full . I have tattoos on my hands, neck, behind my one ear, and all over my arms and the Holy Spirit still compelled not only me to go to church but for the people in the church to love me and my family as Jesus loved and loves me.
I am always blessed by what you teach Mike! I pray that God may continue to bless your gift of teaching and point more people to Christ. I will keep you in my prayers
Thank you Mike for your wise words and Biblical teaching on this controversial subject! Love is the key and even though I am not fond of tattoos for me, I am thankful for a loving Father who loves and accepts everyone and shows kindness to all whether one gets a tattoo or not! If He does that then so should I!
I am considering a religious tattoo because I want to provoke the conversation of God, Christ and the Holy Spirit. I never wanted a tattoo until my faith in Christ got to this level. I feel there is an external force acting upon me to profess my faith. God bless and may God lead us to doing what is right and just. Mike thanks for the great video and discussion.
Great video, I'am a Christian and I have 3 tattoos. If I knew then what I know now when I received all my tattoos I never would have gotten them. I agree with Scripture that it's the word of God and doesn't always have to explain why Scripture says what it says, it's the obedience and conviction of the Holy Spirit to learn. I have gone through deliverance and have had demons attached to one of my tattoos due to blood shed and the image that may have had legal right to the tattoo. As I renounced getting the tattoo I felt a burning sensation come off my arm where the tattoo was, then I coughed. Demons can attach themselves through blood covenants which can be blood shed through tattoos if you give them legal right in most cases but not all and you won't even know they're there until you renounce them through a renunciation list or how ever Holy Spirit leads. I hope this helps and doesn't divide more there is revelation from heaven you have to ask for it though too.
Thank you mike, so helpful. Shame about some of the brothers and sisters causing division in the comments. “Division is worse than being wrong about tattoos” - really helpful and to the more important point of the conversation!
I would really appreciate you doing a video on the book of Enoch. Millions of people are becoming interested in this book and I would love to have your perspective. If you look up book of Enoch on youtube you will see millions are watching these videos. Thanks Brother. God Bless.
I agree and i think it’s because it’s relevant in our time. Jesus did say, “As it was in the days of Noah, so shall the coming of the son of man be”.... what happened with the nephilim etc, is all being repeated today with the tampering of dna and transhumanism.
I don't think millions are interested in Enoch, it is a conspiracy theory going around..there are plenty of reasons Enoch's oddball book is not part of the Biblical canon.... I would love to see Mike do a video about why it shouldn't be included.
@@anthrop7998 I think it was rightly left out of the canon also but I do disagree with you about the interest in the book of Enoch. I know of at least one Christian group that considers it scripture and it is often referenced by Ufologists, New Agers, and conspiracies theorists. It is referred to in the History Channel show Ancient Aliens (which has higher rating than CNN during primetime) and in other shows like that. Also if you look up the book of Enoch on youtube there are over a dozen videos that have over a million views plus quite a few that are near a million views. Plus think of all the books that have been written about the "lost books of the Bible" or the Forbidden Bible Books.
I loved the 3 parts of this explanation, thank you for putting it in context, especially the last part, doing things out of love, its a balance worth obtaining!
You are so right about not condemning others. We are to lift one another up. The meaning of dying to yourself, is to not take it so personal. So that God can work through you. He died for everybody. Great video.
When I was in my early 20's (many, many, many moons ago) I got two tattoos while serving in the Navy. Why? Because I wanted to. Partly out of peer pressure and partly out of trying to be the cool/bad boy. At no time did I ever consider what Jesus would do or think if he were with me when I got them not realizing that he, in fact, was with me. My self-centeredness was the motivating factor in marking my body. I'm just glad they'll be left here when Christ calls me home in either death or by the trumpet call. I hate these things and repeatedly called them "two of my many mistakes", mostly when my two sons ask me about them. All of that being said, I have to submit to what the Holy Spirit has revealed to us in scripture. While I hate them, I accept and love my brothers and sisters in Christ who have them. For anyone who is considering getting tattoos, just please consider if you get them, will it bring glory to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, God the Father and not grieve the Holy Spirit.
I am very heavily tattooed and have been getting tattoos for years, but only recently became Christian. So many conversations have been started because of my tattoos and I'm trying to practice bringing up Jesus anytime the conversation arises
Same, I think I even got a guy to accept Jesus because I told him that Jesus accepts anyone who lets him in their heart and repents. I’m not sure how serious he was with it but I did pray with him and I suppose the seed needs to grow.
A family friend got one because he heard so many people he’d minister to in our area say sadly, “I can’t be saved because I have tattoos.” It broke his heart to know people who believed that God doesn’t love them because they have tattoos. He got his wedding ring tattooed on (he works with machinery so he can’t have an actual ring); most anti-tattoo people like it because he’s honoring his wife and he can minister to people with tattoos by saying, “I have one and I am saved. You can be too.”
I truly appreciate your time in this video and the detail you go into to break down the truth in these words. Thank you. Highly respect your take on this subject.
This was a great video. I've been working up to getting my first tattoo recently and I've always wanted one but there was never anything important enough to me to put it on my body that way. Then I was was saved on the 14th of January 2023. I've always believed in God since a young age but I rejected and hated Him blaming all my falts and troubles on Him. On that day everything changed and God turned into the one who has always been there for me and I have lived for Him every day since. I saw this video and my heart sunk a little because I felt it was going to tell me not to get that tattoo. But I follow the word of God now and if thats what it says then I knew that is what I would have to follow. So I watched it. Knowing what my tattoo is going to be, where it is going to be, and why I am getting it I am glad to see that it absolutely can be honoring to God the way I felt it was going to be in my heart. But its also good to know how to act with others who feel its wrong and to remember to treat them with love and not to cause them to stumble. Thank you for this video. God bless, Keegan
WOAH this is good. Thank you so, so much! You covered everything I was hoping to dive into, and then some. Thanks for taking the time to study into this and share via YT. I'm sharing this with friends and fam who have had this convo with me or just wondered on the subject!
I agree Mike. I have a couple tattoos, both mostly hidden 90% of the time. One to remind me of my favorite verse(Romans 12:9) and how to live Christlike; the other to remind me of my ability, in Christ, to always be growing. I've never questioned them, and no one has ever made a negative comment. I've never felt God is offended. I actually used the verses on stumbling blocks to help me along, for most things I believe. I'm strong in my faith. Though I have stumbled quite a bit in my walk, nothing has swayed my belief. I love God. And people. And if my tattoos bother someone I would just not show them. Thanks for this
Its still a sin no matter how much we try to justify it and there's no such thing as a Christian tattoo at all. It's just like we would not go around and spray paint graffiti on Church buildings because we would know that that act is dishonorable but yet we think it is okay to mark our bodies with tattoos? The devil tries to come for the word that is inside of our hearts which is a greater threat than what we put on our bodies. What someone does prior to salvation is definitely forgiveable but we should not continue on in that state of our old man after being born again. Even when you look at these tattoo parlors you can see the demonic images in them, so we have to ask ourselves is the holy spirit leading us to get them?
Where is your scripture to back that up? And if it was a sin, that's two sins I've committed. Have you not ever sinned? I'm sorry that my tattoos offend you. If I knew you, and knew they bothered you, again I wouldn't flaunt them. Did you even watch the whole video, just curious. Because if you did, you might see differently.
@@Sadielady1978 ....... Leviticus chapter 19 verse 28 shows specifically that it is a sin. I just did a video of this very thing on my channel to help you with further explanation of why this practice comes directly from witchcraft and Satanism, even the tattoo parlors are called sanctuaries by the owners and are full of all types of demonic images but yet people are still going into them and yielding their bodies to be Marked and Pierced by people who openly defy the Bible. You have to ask yourself is it the Holy Spirit leading you to go Mark your body? the Bible is very clear that we are not to conform to the image of this world but be transformed by the renewing of our minds and it also encourages us to not go after the lust of the eyes(what you see the world exalting) and the lust of the flesh (what we want to do despite what the Bible says) which is not from the Father but of this world . Yes I have sinned but I do not make excuses for my sins either..... .If a person feels that tattooing is okay then they must also approve that it is okay for teenagers and children to be tattooed because if there is nothing wrong with it then they would also have to okay parents tattooing their own children or teenagers as well. If tattooing is okay then inserting metal objects in their body is okay as well(if it's a crucifix) along with branding their body. all of the mutilation of the flesh is not of God especially when we are to honor God with our body, unfortunately you just have some in the world today that are teaching it is okay to act just like unbelievers and confess Jesus Christ. how can we be a peculiar people or light shining in this dark world when we are mimicking exactly what the world is doing? I'm not at all offended by anything that you have done, my desire as a brother in Christ is to encourage you to ask the Holy Spirit specifically and pay attention to the word of God . In Leviticus chapter 19 it also says we should not prostitute our daughters nor pass our children through the fire, so does that mean since it's in the old testament that we don't have to take heed to that warning? Because sacrificing our children, prostituting our children, were all in the same list as tattooing and the reason being is because everything that God listed in chapter 19 was in connection to false god worship and that's why he warned his own people not to participate in those works. Sorry for the long response , take care
@@itsintheword230 You mention body piercings in your response here. Do you consider ear piercings as wrong then, and would you counsel people to refrain from having their ears pierced?
You do a really well job explaining this topic. Have done my own study on this and came to similar conclusions. Just add to your "fulfill" a lot of people think it only means completed or finished. A more developed understanding is to give meaning, understanding and clarity to the law. Just like the abundance of laws and procedures to the sacrificial system was to direct people to the revelation of what Christ has come/came to do. As the lamb was being inspected so too Jesus was being inspected and etc. I believe the modern church lacks a lot of knowledge in OT. Just saying as a former atheist.
At 49:00 a girl says she has her ears gauged. Mike’s reply made me think he isn’t familiar with this. Gauges are not earrings, they are discs that stretch out the earlobe so that if it is removed a person standing a couple feet away can see through the gaping holes. In my experience gauges are way more controversial than tattoos. I work in a very male dominated industry and several of the guys have tattoos. Last year a guy interviewed for a job here and he had about 3/4 inch gauges in his ears. They were polite to him while he was there but as soon as he left they threw out his resume. I think they did ask him if he had some gauges in a more subdued color but even with that it was considered a sign of poor decision making skills. Why are Christians so obsessed over right or wrong and never discuss if something is wise or foolish? I think the issue of wisdom is much more relevant to this question.
Gauges will not leave a gaping hole when they are removed unless you stretch to a really large size. I have stretched my ears, taken them out and had them shrink back to normal, and then re-stretched them and taken them out and had them go back a few times. Currently they are not stretched, and they look identical to how they looked before stretching, I wear normal earrings with no issue, and the holes are tiny. They look the same as when I had them first pierced, no one can tell they were previously stretched. It does take a few weeks for them to go back to their original size, but unless you have stretched them out really big they go back to normal really easily (from my own experience and what I’ve read). I have no problem with your opinion, but your statement about gauges do to ears is just not accurate.
Very well said! Thank you for putting my thoughts into words! While it may not be a sin to get a tat, is it what the Lord would want me to do? Will it bring more glory to Him or draw more attention to me? Hopefully as we grow in maturity in Christ, we will make wise decisions that will exalt Him in all areas of our life. Scripture says they will know we are Christians by our love, not by a verse or cross tattooed on our arm. I know many many people who got cross or other religious tattoos in the middle of their addiction. They are Christians now! But the mixture of crosses and skulls remain. I certainly don’t condemn them for the past, but the ones who are truly strong Christians now wouldn’t consider getting another one (the people I know that is).
This has been very useful, thank you! I have three tattoos, which I'm removing now. I would never judge someone for having tattoos, but after being saved again, I feel uncomfortable with them (I think more for the rebellious reasons I got them) and felt it necessary to laser remove them.
I would never judge you for having them or removing them. Likely you are correct your motivations for getting them was not in a godly way so you feel convicted over that. Completely understandable.
It has been very helpful to use wisdom instead of judging someone for the way they look to you;see them that they have a soul and Jesus loves them the way they are; and keep your personal view to yourself and don’t impose it on anyone and be a blessing to others!God loves you as you are…
@Guys guy LastnameAre you really comparing a tattoo with the modification of the body of a transgender? That just confirms what I have already said: I see more pride in many christians' comments than in tattoos (which are completely different to what you said).
I think it’s more indignant feelings than pride. As Christians we are just frustrated with the whole issue and that it causes division. Regardless of however people try to justify something that shouldn’t be done. I think everyone who has a tattoo inherently knows that no matter how much they suppress it.
Two fallacies: attributing motive, and tu quoque. Attributing motive is fallacious, because you don't really know what was going on in someone's mind when they wrote something. You are assuming their motivations are bad, when you can't possibly know. It is also fallacious because the motivation behind a statement doesn't change whether it is true or false. Tu quoque is from the Latin for "you too." It is fallacious because, even if the person denouncing something is guilty of the same thing, it has no bearing on whether the thing is good or bad. Even if your doctor smokes, it has no bearing on whether he is correct that smoking is bad for you.
If I weren't a Christian, I'd probably have lots of nerdy, regrettable tattoos lol. I agree with Mike's conclusion, but want to add something. I'm in the camp that personally feels tattoos aren't necessarily evil, and as well as not wanting to be a stumblingblock to my brother, I want to "avoid the appearance of evil." I think many older Christians feel the way they do about tattoos is because they have been a symbol of youthful rebellion in American culture. It would be fun to get a tattoo, but it's not a necessity and it's not worth looking a certain way to my fellow believers, and just practically speaking, the world sees it a certain way as well. Like it or not, you're lumping yourself in with people that go on down the list of these things like weird piercings, etc. It's just not worth it if your focus is to follow Christ.
One more addition that I am NOT sure about, where do you draw the line? At some point somebody somewhere is going to be offended at anything. There has to be a point of reasonableness, and I'm not sure if there is a clear line to be drawn.
@@greyspot00 That is the question I was asking as well. Best I have come up with is it is not the action or the response from them at matters, but the intention from you. There have been times in which I knew something was going to offend, but I did it anyway. It felt good to do, but in no way was it morally required that I say the offensive thing. I think those verse were calling my out for that. To look at it from the other side, the motivation should be love. So if you are considering the action ask which is more important, the feelings of the person that will be offended, or the reason for the action. Certainly Jesus wasn't concerned with the feelings of those doing commerce in the temple when he ran them out. But that had a pretty important reason, and that reason wasn't malice toward them. Also your points up above on tattoos are rather insightful.
I would bring up what’s the motivation for these people with tattoos - narrow is the way - I would say there are many that say they are Christian’s but do not really know God
I have a very simple non - offensive looking symbolic tattoo that I got as a reminder to never commit suicide, among a few other things. It's discreetly on my shoulder, so rarely seen, so I believe if you get offended by my tattoo or my unapologetic attitude about it, that's on you. the symbol and message of hope ultimately glorifies God, who is commonly cited as the "God of Hope." What it comes down to is legalism, and we can all see the good that did the Catholic and Lutheran churches (among others obviously)
Watching this video years later but really great break down on explain ping this topic well Pastor Mike. Reading the context of the verses in both the New & Old Testament. I remember when I started to go to a AG church with my family, the population has some older folks that saw tattoos as sinful or evil. They use the saying a lot, “Don’t mark yourself because your body is the temple of the Lord.” People in the congregation that had tattoos before being a believer were very considerate & covered them the best they can which is very sweet & thoughtful. When I went to a Christian college I had that mentality too strong and meeting people with Christian tattoos I was so confused. Over the years I hear peoples’ stories of reminders of how God spoke to them & getting Christian tattoos that were a reminder of that. I know I myself will never get one because I will not want to put my body in pain and doesn’t sit right at least with my spirit. If it has a special meaning that’s nice as long as the person is not just getting on because it looks cool
Thank you for this video! I have two tattoos and I'd love to have them both removed. However, I don't think I'll be able to afford to have it done since I'm no longer working. How I wish I had a video like this to watch prior to making the decision to get inked over twenty years ago!
Hey Jules, Why not let your pastor or congregation know of your desires (including for a job) ... They might take up a collection for you, or maybe one individual would cover the entire cost. Or who knows, maybe someone in your fellowship specializes in tattoo removal! LoL God's blessings to you 😇
@Mike Winger Thank you for answering my question. There was a second part to it but was sent separately. I know it may limit my ministering to some that I have tattoos. But being 28 and a part of the tattoo and skateboarding culture, where things are blatant as well as esoterically satanic, my biblical tattoos have been good conversation starters to people who have only known that kind of lifestyle, which leads to me sharing the Gospel. I just hope that they may help witness to a different demographic that may think you can’t have tattoos and be a follower of Christ. I also had something tragic happen a few days after Christmas. My puppy Ollie ran out in the street and got hit by a car while I was out of town. He didn’t make it..🥺 I’ve been heartbroken and was wondering what the Bible says about our pets being in Heaven. I know being with and worshipping the Lord is the main point of being in Heaven but I would have some comfort in knowing my puppy Ollie is running around up there and I may see him again. What are your thoughts? Thanks for all you do! Aloha
Austin, I’m sorry to hear about your puppy. Me and my wife lost one of our beloved cats last year and it was pretty heartbreaking for us. I would love to see them again in the future, and this could be the case, but my current understanding is that they do not receive a resurrection. While I do think there will be animals in the New Heavens and Earth I don’t feel like I have reason to believe that will be our former pets. I’m open to changing my mind on this if I get a better understanding on it and I realize how great it would be to see our pets again but I also have a great hope simply in the comfort of God’s presence where He wipes away every tear. I’m glad you have found ministerial use for your tattoos!
Im sorry you lost olly. If im not wrong the Bible says that animals dont have the same souls as humans this is kind of confusing because of the lion laying with the lamb. Idk but i can say with authority that Jesus provides and he cares about our pain. I have 2 cats that came to me right when i was injured 3 yeats ago. I had no idea i was about to go through the hardest 3 years of my life i literally dont think i would have made it without them. I believe God provides us with animals as helpers. They love us and we can ask further questions when we get to the Father. Love you in Christ.
Austin, I farewelled my dog of 14yrs a couple of years ago and was in such deep distress and grief. Nothing could console me. But through it all Jesus spoke to me, telling me secrets of my dogs love and loyalty, of his pure heart and inner life of service to me and my children. Then one day Jesus gave me a vision of my beautiful friend (who was so elderly, he could almost not walk during his last earthly days) running in a heavenly field, and Jesus told me He had my dog and he was free of pain and suffering and running in the freedom we had hoped the euthanasia would finally provide him. That vision and those kind secrets my Saviour spoke to me was all that consoled me. It is almost 3yrs ago now and I still cry but my hope is in Him who saves ❤ I have no bible verses for you but some things about our relationship with Jesus are found only in the one-on-One intimacy we need to always be pursuing with Jesus. I ask that He would give you comfort and consolation by His Holy Spirit, amen.
God has lead a good friend of mine into skateboard ministry, it's effective and God is working through it and he's in his 30's with 4 kids and no tattoos, visibly anyway. Just saying that to demonstrate that even though tattoos can open conversation, God can certainly do that and more without them... But if you already got them, let God use them!
@@Derek-rv3ee I agree, if you minister for the sake of Christ in just being bold. You can get a lot done. If you already have them and a question pops up, then I think that's alright but dont let it be your only way of ministering to that group of people.
I enjoy my tattoo and I'll be getting more. They generally serve as reminders and / or messages to others which can be useful and positive just as often as negative or reductive
I did research before getting my tattoo. I missed the cutting for false gods whole bit and I'm loving this much deeper dive, so thank you so very much for this. Mine is in Hebrew and comes from Vine's concordance. I've been through some seriously dark times, from very early childhood. A verse in Isaiah saved my life. The tattoo says 'engraved.' Several times, it's been a great conversation starter. This is such an awesome and helpful teaching, thanks again for putting all this together and bringing clarity to this topic, as well as others.
Thanks for this Mike. I got tattoos after suddenly experiencing a taste of freedom after growing up in a very controlling environment, and I've been feeling quite condemned for getting them. They are not bad in and of themselves; they are just simple florals, a cross on my upper arm, and a statement declaring that I am God's and no-one else's. But I have become worried about the simple act of getting them and that I have committed some kind of unforgivable sin. I've realised now that this is not the case according to scripture and there is no condemnation. Blessedly, most people in my life think they're fine and even like them. My parents just wanted to know that I'd gone to a legitimate hygienic tattoo shop to get them. I am a bit of an alternative chick (think goth, punk, rocker) and I feel called to minister to people who are also fascinated with alternative culture and locked into pagan and new age beliefs. So for that ministry, my tats will give me an access point with them because it will make me more relatable to them, since they close off at religious sticklers. The only one who has reacted negatively to them is my grandmother. She is a believer by upbringing and tradition, but I'm not sure how far her understanding of the Bible actually goes. She believes in a lot of superstition and is quite naive because she basically went from being property of her father to being property of her husband while the men in her life handled all the affairs and she was limited to cooking and cleaning the house and raising her children. She's 83, so ya know, product of her time. She also had a lot of difficulty with her health later in life and when she lost Grandpa (who was a staunch believer and never reacted once to my tats), and has this strange twisted belief that God is "punishing her for having a good life". Every time she sees my forearm tats, she freaks out. I used to get really annoyed and upset with this because she would grab my arm and loudly proclaim how much she hated it and how heartbroken she was that I'd got them. Her reaction caused me great discomfort because it felt judgemental and also broke my heart that she doesn't understand the full message of scripture. This went further than my tattoos, for the reasons listed above. She thinks God doesn't love her if she's not good enough and that just pains me so much. But she is also so sweet and loving, loves to give me gifts, and hugged me tightly with tears in her eyes when I was about to leave to study abroad. I do not doubt that she loves me and does see her beloved eldest granddaughter underneath the ink, and after dealing with a lot of my anger issues toward people who have treated me badly over my life, all I want to do is love her back. Therefore, I am happy to wear long sleeves when I see her if it helps her feel more at peace and prevents tension in our household. If she does see them by chance and freak out, all I can do is let her freak and process her emotion, forgive her if it hurts me, and then calmly explain again that I got them out of choice and because I know I'm free to do so as a declaration of my faith in Jesus. But they are a stumbling block for her. So, I'll cover them when I see her, and even though I want more, I probably won't get any until she passes.
You and your grandmother sound so precious. As one alternative, inked Christian girl to another, I’ll pray for you both 🖤 it breaks my heart that she feels punished-this is not a thought coming from God, but from the enemy. Just keep loving and praying for her! 🙏🏻
It really is hard to comprehend getting a tattoo while walking in the word. Most folks get tattoos prior to building the close relationship with the Lord and seems impossible during the relationship.
It may seem impossible to you, but to others it can be an expression of their relationship with the Lord, a decoration of their temple to honor Him if you will. It's never wise on a matter such as this to judge someone else's motive or relationship just because it's different from ours and we can't understand it :) Be blessed!
@@michelleo8124 I have a maltese cross tattoo with a flur de lis. Its 8 meanings are. Respect, Holy devotion, Bravery, compassion, honor, Respect, fearlessness, Loyalty and Humanitarian but i exchange Humanitarian with Love. As you need love as that's what jesus did for his love for us all giving his life for us. No i am not catholic.but a born again christian.
I had a dream of a tattoo with what looked like symbols to me when I was 19. I drew it as soon as I woke up, later that day I was showing friends. One of my friends was Jewish and he said "Since when do you speak Hebrew?" I looked confused & said I don't. He laughed & said "Really cause these symbols are Hebrew taking about God." He translated it for me & I was blown away. I held onto it & only just got it in 2020 at the age of 47. Spirit let me know it was time & to be honest I take comfort in it & honor Him by bearing my mark.
Wow what a kick in the teeth! I listened to this so I could confront someone that believes tattoos are wrong but instead of doing that I was kicked in the teeth for judging. Who am I to judge? I love it when the Lord shakes me and shows me that I’m a sinner and that I should live in his image. I love being the hands and feet of Jesus
This is a good video. I was always curious about the “tattoo” thing in the Bible. It doesn’t give a reason but from the context it’s obvious that doing some of those things aligns oneself with the devil to some degree. In my Christian life, one gift that I always thought was “strange “ was the gift of discerning of spirits and part of the gift is the ability to see angels and demons. But as I grew more this gift became more and more strong and it’s often I would ask the Lord why this gift. I didn’t want it nor did I ask for it. Long story short, tattoos are something I see occasionally demons having, all the strange wearing of rings is also something they do. Even satan himself has a tattoo on his forehead. I don’t think cutting your beard or hair has some spiritual significance but tattoos definitely do.
You got it. I have the gift of discernment too. Is sometimes hard to explain with wordly examples because there is alot of a spiritual 7th sense involved. We can see and feel things that gives us tons of information and have to be careful how we share it. If anyone truly answers WHY? There is no good reason for a permanent blood piercing mark of anything above earth, below earth nor on earth. Any emotional attachment is idolatry and hence a sin. Its why God kept it simple: 🙏 Deuteronomy 12:4 “Do not worship the LORD your God in the way these pagan peoples worship their gods.” 1 Corinthians 8:9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of your’s become a stumbling block to them that are weak
Just a genuine thought, I haven’t read in the Bible the gift of being able to *see* angels and demons so why and how could you guys see them if the Bible doesn’t talk about it. It doesn’t make sense to me and I’m a bit skeptical
I think this is a great topic and very well covered. I really appreciate the time taken to outline scripture here. I have many tattoos, I think I have been fortunate to go to a church that hasn't ever seemed to have been offended or upset by mine. No one really has tattoos in my church and it is certainly an "older" church in terms ages of people. I didn't realize so many Christians were offended by them. It does sadden me that I have read many comments about how it is a pride issue if you get a tattoo, when the video covered scripture specifically warning about carrying your own convictions on to others. You can genuinely get tattoos and not do it in a prideful manner, of course there may be many that do, do it in a prideful manner, and of course it would be wise to obstain from getting tattoos if that was your conviction. I would like to add if many of these issues on tattoos that I read in the comments were relevant for all people then it would clearly state it as sin, and that this specific mosaic law is still valid, as it is a law that is mentioned many times in the Bible. I say all this with love, I really appreciate all Christians that obstain from whatever their convictions may be. ♥️
Absolutely agree! People should not judge and place conviction just because they don’t have the same opinions as someone else. It doesn’t bring anyone closer to God...If anything, it pushes them away. Jesus reached out to the ones that society had judged the most and he did it in a loving manner. It’s important that Christians do the same.
Mike, This is my first time seeing your channel. Wow! I LOVE your perspective, which is based in love and clearly emphasizes reliance on the Word. Well done. THANK YOU! We need more believers who remember love (God/Christ) is our foundation AND know how to rightly divide the Word. I am now a new subscriber, looking forward to more great insights and clearer understanding as iron sharpens iron. Thanks again.
But that’s not what Roman’s 14 says. If one year you say to yourself it’s wrong to eat bacon or only eat vegetables? There’s different consciences beside the extreme thought that everything is wrong.
