Is it okay to get tattoos if they are of a Christian nature?

Answer

As a preliminary note, we recommend reading our article on “What does the Bible say about tattoos and body piercings?” for context. Apart from the overarching theme of that article, there arises the issue of Christian tattoos. Do the same guidelines extend to tattoos that depict Christian symbols, such as a cross, a Christian motto, or even a Bible verse? Some Christians have discovered that having such tattoos lends them more credibility and, consequently, more opportunities for evangelism among certain groups of people. So, what about Christian tattoos?

Undoubtedly, a tattoo of a cross is more appropriate than a tattoo of a flaming skull, a nude woman, or a demon. Displaying a tattoo that reads “Jesus saves” could indeed spark conversations with individuals who might never engage with a preacher in a suit and tie. Some individuals point to Revelation 19:16 as a potential instance of Jesus having a tattoo on His thigh, bearing the inscription “King of kings and Lord of lords.” The real question is not whether getting a tattoo is a sin, but rather whether it is a wise and necessary decision. First Corinthians 10:23 states, “Everything is permissible – but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible – but not everything is constructive.” While Christian tattoos may be considered “permissible,” the key inquiry is whether they are truly beneficial and constructive.

In 1 Corinthians 9:22-23, Paul declares, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel.” Adapting to various contexts to reach others is conceivably the only valid rationale for obtaining a Christian tattoo. If having a tattoo genuinely facilitates evangelism in ways that would otherwise be unattainable, then acquiring Christian tattoos would likely meet the criteria of Paul’s principle of “becoming all things.” At theAt the same time, it is challenging to imagine a scenario in which having a tattoo would increase the likelihood of evangelism. If someone refuses to listen to you because you lack a tattoo, it is highly improbable that such an individual would genuinely listen because of the presence of a tattoo.

Having said that, the biblically grounded conclusion would suggest that Christian tattoos are allowable, but it is debatable whether they can be viewed as advantageous and constructive. A Christian contemplating getting a tattoo should pray for wisdom “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”, (James 1:5) and seek the Lord’s guidance for pure motives and discernment.