Poll re. good tattoo artist career for a Christian woman

[MissDee]

I do not like tattoos. Never got one & will never willingly get one. But just like so many things in this world today, it's become normal & accepted by society. When that happens, we have a generation that doesn't even think of the consequences of getting one (or 20). So, whaddaya do? If worship music hadn't changed, would we be drawing in teens? If the unspoken Sunday dress code hadn't changed, would we be drawing in less? It's true that God never changes, but WE do. And while I believe that God alone can draw tennis shoe-clad people & heavy metal-loving teens, I also believe that God didn't reiterate any laws against tattoos in the NT because He foresaw such a time as this.

I agree about not liking tattoos, and never willingly getting one. And frankly I can't see anyone, for any reason, forcing me to have one.

However, I disagree that the church needs to change to fit the times. It says in Jeremiah 2:11, "Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit." Why should Christians have to change the manner in which they worship in order to appeal to the world? The whole point is for us as Christians to be so different from the world that they cannot help noticing that we are not like them - and then, when they ask us why, we can point to JESUS.

Going back to the topic of tattoos, though. Would people approve of someone scribbling graffiti on the walls of a church, whatever message they might be putting up there? Before anyone asks what the one has to do with the other, they should remember that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). So, using that analogy, tattooing is like scribbling on the walls of God's temple.

Looking at it another way, even putting aside the right or wrong of tattooing itself, what about the matter of decency? There are some people who want tattoos on private parts of their bodies. Would it be right for a Christian woman - or man, for that matter - to see the nakedness of another? I think the Old Testament would have something to say about that.

 

[evenifigoalone]

Going back to the topic of tattoos, though. Would people approve of someone scribbling graffiti on the walls of a church, whatever message they might be putting up there? Before anyone asks what the one has to do with the other, they should remember that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). So, using that analogy, tattooing is like scribbling on the walls of God's temple.

Graffiti is usually done as an act of vandalism. It isn't valdalism for the administration of a church to put posters or paintings on church walls, or some sort of symbol, be it a cross or the fish. In fact, these things may be painted directly on the wall itself.
Using the analogy that our body is a temple, or a church, it isn't vandilism. Unless someone else does it against our will or something.

Looking at it another way, even putting aside the right or wrong of tattooing itself, what about the matter of decency? There are some people who want tattoos on private parts of their bodies. Would it be right for a Christian woman - or man, for that matter - to see the nakedness of another? I think the Old Testament would have something to say about that.

I'd think someone running a tattoo parlor has a right to refuse a request if it goes against his or her morals.

 

[farouk]

I do not like tattoos. Never got one & will never willingly get one. But just like so many things in this world today, it's become normal & accepted by society. When that happens, we have a generation that doesn't even think of the consequences of getting one (or 20). So, whaddaya do? If worship music hadn't changed, would we be drawing in teens? If the unspoken Sunday dress code hadn't changed, would we be drawing in less? It's true that God never changes, but WE do. And while I believe that God alone can draw tennis shoe-clad people & heavy metal-loving teens, I also believe that God didn't reiterate any laws against tattoos in the NT because He foresaw such a time as this.

I agree about not liking tattoos, and never willingly getting one. And frankly I can't see anyone, for any reason, forcing me to have one.

However, I disagree that the church needs to change to fit the times. It says in Jeremiah 2:11, "Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit." Why should Christians have to change the manner in which they worship in order to appeal to the world? The whole point is for us as Christians to be so different from the world that they cannot help noticing that we are not like them - and then, when they ask us why, we can point to JESUS.

Going back to the topic of tattoos, though. Would people approve of someone scribbling graffiti on the walls of a church, whatever message they might be putting up there? Before anyone asks what the one has to do with the other, they should remember that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). So, using that analogy, tattooing is like scribbling on the walls of God's temple.

Looking at it another way, even putting aside the right or wrong of tattooing itself, what about the matter of decency? There are some people who want tattoos on private parts of their bodies. Would it be right for a Christian woman - or man, for that matter - to see the nakedness of another? I think the Old Testament would have something to say about that.

[MENTION=96527]MissDee[/MENTION]:

Thanks a lot for your various comments. Actually I do agree strongly with some of what you say - much of it, even, although maybe not all Christians (myself included) would necessarily apply it in exactly the same way.

You are absolutely right: no one should feel compelled to get a tattoo. Ever.

When Christians get faith based tattoo that have proven very effective in personal evangelism and talking to people, it is usually because they have thought a great deal and prayed about it.

I think questdriven has commented well on the supposed temple graffiti aspect: I would just add that in any case in the New Testament the emphasis is on the Lord dwelling in and with people rather than in a building. The 1 Corinthians reference also speaks about defilement; and for example most Christians would probably find it far fetched to think that something such as a Christian fish sign, or a 'John 3.16' ref. on a wrist, arm or ankle, motivated by a wish to communicate the Gospel and proven very effective also, would constitute 'defilement'. Motive, and its moral and spiritual underpinning, has a lot to do with it, really. (On the other hand, the tattooed image of a woman without a bikini, or of a man without...whatever, but certainly these might well be regarded as morally unsuitable.)

Tattooists should be able to and do exercise a certain amount of discretion also. If you go back to the first post of this thread, you will see that mygraine's comments refer to the existence of Christians - Christian women, indeed - who do work in the industry.

Maybe this to some extent allays some of your concerns about what @Mizzy 's post, to which you responded, says?

Thanks again for your contribution.

Blessings.

 

[farouk]

Going back to the topic of tattoos, though. Would people approve of someone scribbling graffiti on the walls of a church, whatever message they might be putting up there? Before anyone asks what the one has to do with the other, they should remember that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). So, using that analogy, tattooing is like scribbling on the walls of God's temple.

Graffiti is usually done as an act of vandalism. It isn't valdalism for the administration of a church to put posters or paintings on church walls, or some sort of symbol, be it a cross or the fish. In fact, these things may be painted directly on the wall itself.
Using the analogy that our body is a temple, or a church, it isn't vandilism. Unless someone else does it against our will or something.

Looking at it another way, even putting aside the right or wrong of tattooing itself, what about the matter of decency? There are some people who want tattoos on private parts of their bodies. Would it be right for a Christian woman - or man, for that matter - to see the nakedness of another? I think the Old Testament would have something to say about that.

I'd think someone running a tattoo parlor has a right to refuse a request if it goes against his or her morals.

[MENTION=89910]questdriven[/MENTION]:

Yes, I would basically agree.

The fish sign <>< (Icthus), which you mention, is a very effective symbol, isn't it?
It can be so small and simple, and it preaches well, whether on a wall, or wherever. It's no wonder that some Christians think it's ideal for an ankle, foot, wrist, etc. The early Christians, when they met a stranger who they guessed might be a Christian, too, would sometimes trace a fish sign in the dust with their staff, or look down near the other person's feet to see if the person was
tracing it.

Blessings.

 

[Mizzy]

I agree about not liking tattoos, and never willingly getting one. And frankly I can't see anyone, for any reason, forcing me to have one.

It might be interesting to do a temporary tattoo of a Christian symbol or Bible verse, just to see how many (young) people approaches us. ;)

However, I disagree that the church needs to change to fit the times. It says in Jeremiah 2:11, "Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit." Why should Christians have to change the manner in which they worship in order to appeal to the world? The whole point is for us as Christians to be so different from the world that they cannot help noticing that we are not like them - and then, when they ask us why, we can point to JESUS.

I never actually said the church needed to change, but I do believe we need to remember that we're not under the law when change occurs. It would be great if it hadn't changed, but that's not the case, nor has it ever been. Just as the first sin brought about the times of Noah, the family of Noah has brought us where we are today. Judgment is inevitable. Do we blacklist the tattooed from the grace we've been given for our sins? Because we all have them. According to the pharisees, Jesus sinned on the Sabbath, but we know that's not the case. Do we live in the Old Covenant or do we live in the New Covenant? If we're to live in the New Covenant, then we would be wise to remember that this was one of many topics that was not specified in the NT.

So, that places us all somewhere between 1 Corinthians 6:12 & 1 Corinthians 8:9. Which is why I'm opting out, but who am I to judge whether another Christian would be a stumblingblock vs a stepping stone should they opt to share the Gospel on their arm?

I do agree that we have to be different, but I don't think that difference is found on the outside of us. Not the difference that attracts people, at least. I've never heard someone say, "he didn't sing Christian rock, wear tennis shoes or have a tattoo & I found myself wanting that so very much." It's always about the joy, the love, the patience, the kindness... ;)

Now, how about the temporary tattoo? I will if you will, @MissDee . ;)

 

[Mizzy]

Actually, I do see some tattoos as very pretty & very cool, but it doesn't change my personal preferences or perceptions of tattoos in general.

And yes, as I admitted before, I'm totally onboard with folks getting inked to share their testimonies and to witness to people. But that's about as horizontal as I can get at this point & time. My personal testimony will definitely be finding another "horizon."

Hi Mizzy,

Just a few more thoughts; I must say I do appreciate that you must have brought to bear some considerable patient thinking in order to have commented as you have done. And I think, too, you have shown careful forbearance in continuing to post thoughtfully to an extent beyond the level of someone with only a superficial, cursory interest in the subject. There exists of course a vast variety of tattoo designs, incuding faith based ones; some indeed may be aesthetically unsuccessful.

If I could supply a link, however, even the most conservative skeptic about the appropriateness of faith based tattoos might well be moved by the sheer unobtrusiveness and gracious modesty of Bible verse tattoos such as this one, depicted; a quiet, low key design in a placement highly becoming for the choice of Bible verse (Ps. 119.105)<VAR id=yiv2707988434yui-ie-cursor></VAR>.

http://letterssyllableswordsphrasessentences.blogspot.ca/2011/01/nuts-bolts.html

I know you did say honestly:

The fact that more women are getting tattoos concerns me ..

If you still have concerns about this depicted kind of example of a Bible verse tattoo, it is also honest of you. Although also I myself would have to say in all honesty that I wouldn't personally be able to identify any particular concerns about this example of faith based tattoo.

You also said, and your insights must be perfectly valuable for you:

I think they make a woman appear less feminine.

Did you really mean in all cases? or just sometimes? because again, for example, I would find it just a bit hard to consider that the tattoo depicted is damaging to the wearer's femininity.

(Just a few more thoughts, then, and, again, I appreciate your candor and patient willingness to broaden the discussion of the subject from the bounds within which for years you may <VAR id=yiv2707988434yui-ie-cursor></VAR>have been more familiar.)<VAR id=yiv2707988434yui-ie-cursor></VAR>

Sorry, Farouk, I didn't see this post earlier.

I meant in all cases... at least until I saw that picture. I can't say that it adds to her femininity, but I can't say that takes away from it either.

But, it would be MUCH more feminine if it were in purple. Just sayin.' ;)

I do think it's a nice, thoughtful tattoo. I think it's in a great place too. Most simply aren't going to get eye level to read it & therefore, they're forced to ask what it says thereby opening up an opportunity for dialogue.

 

[Free Christian]

Ask yourselves this, I have.
What if what I, me Free Christian, am advocating and advising others is wrong? What harm have I caused or could cause.
Not to get one?
Nothing, no harm.
What if what others are advising or advocating is wrong?
To get one??? And it is actually Biblically wrong?
My stance is harmless, even if its wrong. I don't believe it is wrong but am posing this as a fair logical question.
Would the stance of being "for" getting one be harmless if it was wrong?

 

[evenifigoalone]

In other words, "Better safe than sorry." Can't argue there. My dad used the same argument to show why he didn't advocate using modern music for worship. I couldn't argue with that, either, even though I loved modern worship songs and still do, still don't see any harm in them.
While there is no real counter-argument, I do think it can be taken too far, just like anything else. On the other hand, as you said, there is no real harm in it, in and of itself. There is no harm in it as long as there is mutual respect, so that those of the opposite viewpoint are not treated as if they themselves are the devil in disguise...which, can of course go either way. I hope you don't think I'm accusing you of anything, because as far as I can see, there is nothing to accuse you of in the first place.

I can't really think of much damage getting a tattoo could cause, though. Other than possible causing a weaker Christian to stumble, which the Bible does warn us more than once to be careful of. We are told that if our freedom is causing someone else distress, then we are no longer acting in love (Rom.14:15). I don't think this means, don't do it if there's even a chance that someone, somewhere in the world will be offended (if this was the case, almost nothing would be permissible), but it does mean to think about how it might impact those around you. If it will grieve someone you know or you live in an area where it would be seen as the appearance of evil, don't do it.

We may never agree on this issue, Free Christian. But it doesn't really matter. God bless you.

 

[George Muller]

Ask yourselves this, I have.
What if what I, me Free Christian, am advocating and advising others is wrong? What harm have I caused or could cause.
Not to get one?
Nothing, no harm.
What if what others are advising or advocating is wrong?
To get one??? And it is actually Biblically wrong?
My stance is harmless, even if its wrong. I don't believe it is wrong but am posing this as a fair logical question.
Would the stance of being "for" getting one be harmless if it was wrong?

I like this thought, and like many things in our walk with the Lord, each believer must answer to God with their own conscience. Like buying a new car? It very well could be an act of the flesh (issue of pride or lust) for some and for others could very much be the will of God for that person." I WILL BE THEIR GOD AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE" Can be the only answer to some issues.

 

[MissDee]

Re: Poll re. good tattoo artist career for a Christian woman Ask yourselves this, I have. What if what I, me Free Christian, am advocating and advising others is wrong? What harm have I caused or could cause. Not to get one? Nothing, no harm. What if what others are advising or advocating is wrong? To get one??? And it is actually Biblically wrong? My stance is harmless, even if its wrong. I don't believe it is wrong but am posing this as a fair logical question. Would the stance of being "for" getting one be harmless if it was wrong?

I agree. Not to have a tattoo is harmless. But to have one - even if one day it MAY, perhaps, be used for good - could be harmful, especially if, as I believe, it is wrong.

I am not saying that God has never used for good a tattoo that a Christian may have. God can take anything, and use it to bring people to Him. But as Paul says in Romans 6:1, What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?

Neither do I have a problem with welcoming tattooed people into the church. We cannot afford to shrink from any sinner, no matter how unpleasant we might find their lifestyle - otherwise, what kind of witness would we be? Just as God can welcome any kind of sinner, so should we. But it does not follow that we need to emulate them, in order to win them to Christ.

True, nonChristians are not going to say, "Oh, that person doesn't listen to rock music or have tattoos; I want to be like them." But we have to remember that our outward life is often all that some people are going to see. What stands out in the eyes of the world is how we live our life. It is not probably going to be, "Gee, that person is always happy." More probably, it is going to be, "Why does that person not do the same things that everyone else does?" And that, in my opinion, is of more value than a hundred tattoos.

Also, the argument that the fact that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19) refers only to the spiritual side of things is flawed. That piece of Scripture is referring mainly to adultery, which - while having emotional and spiritual consequences - is very much a physical sin.

On another note. I did a little research into the history of tattooing, and I find it interesting that, in many cultures, tattooing was used as a form of identification for prisoners and criminals. Even later, when tattooing became popular in Europe, it was usually practiced by sailors. And in England in particular in that period, sailors were often petty criminals, pressed into service. While tattooing does not have the same connotation today, I still have to ask - is that the kind of example that we want to put across???

 

[farouk]

I agree. Not to have a tattoo is harmless. But to have one - even if one day it MAY, perhaps, be used for good - could be harmful, especially if, as I believe, it is wrong.

I am not saying that God has never used for good a tattoo that a Christian may have. God can take anything, and use it to bring people to Him. But as Paul says in Romans 6:1, What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?

Neither do I have a problem with welcoming tattooed people into the church. We cannot afford to shrink from any sinner, no matter how unpleasant we might find their lifestyle - otherwise, what kind of witness would we be? Just as God can welcome any kind of sinner, so should we. But it does not follow that we need to emulate them, in order to win them to Christ.

True, nonChristians are not going to say, "Oh, that person doesn't listen to rock music or have tattoos; I want to be like them." But we have to remember that our outward life is often all that some people are going to see. What stands out in the eyes of the world is how we live our life. It is not probably going to be, "Gee, that person is always happy." More probably, it is going to be, "Why does that person not do the same things that everyone else does?" And that, in my opinion, is of more value than a hundred tattoos.

Also, the argument that the fact that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19) refers only to the spiritual side of things is flawed. That piece of Scripture is referring mainly to adultery, which - while having emotional and spiritual consequences - is very much a physical sin.

On another note. I did a little research into the history of tattooing, and I find it interesting that, in many cultures, tattooing was used as a form of identification for prisoners and criminals. Even later, when tattooing became popular in Europe, it was usually practiced by sailors. And in England in particular in that period, sailors were often petty criminals, pressed into service. While tattooing does not have the same connotation today, I still have to ask - is that the kind of example that we want to put across???

MissDee:

Thanks very much for your further comments.

Just to take up one or two of your points:

Re. supposed, implied links with criminal activity: actually today 59% of people who obtain tattoos in America now are women (including students getting a Christian fish sign or Bible ref., homeschooling moms and grandmothers getting their kids' and grandkids' initials, etc.); you get the picture. I frankly don't think it tenable today to argue that criminal activity is a linkage that will be made. (In fact, if we tried to apply such apparently tenous logic to other areas of the Christian life, then, as [MENTION=89910]questdriven[/MENTION] says, 'almost nothing would be permissible'.) In any case, today, some parlors resemble salons rather than dingy outfits.

Regarding 1 Corinthians 6.19 and the physical aspect and adultery, I frankly think it's also untenable to maintain that a chaste Christian prayerfully getting a witness fish sign or Bible ref. on a wrist, ankle, etc. constitutes adultery.

But if you are expressing the view that you don't like tattoos, this is a viewpoint which is perfectly fine. No one needs to get a tattoo; no one needs to like tattoos. It's out there in a big way, however, and many earnest Christians choose to use this means of witness that has proven to be very effective.

Your input is appreciate; these would be my two cents' by way of comment.

Blessings.

 

[farouk]

In other words, "Better safe than sorry." Can't argue there. My dad used the same argument to show why he didn't advocate using modern music for worship. I couldn't argue with that, either, even though I loved modern worship songs and still do, still don't see any harm in them.
While there is no real counter-argument, I do think it can be taken too far, just like anything else. On the other hand, as you said, there is no real harm in it, in and of itself. There is no harm in it as long as there is mutual respect, so that those of the opposite viewpoint are not treated as if they themselves are the devil in disguise...which, can of course go either way. I hope you don't think I'm accusing you of anything, because as far as I can see, there is nothing to accuse you of in the first place.

I can't really think of much damage getting a tattoo could cause, though. Other than possible causing a weaker Christian to stumble, which the Bible does warn us more than once to be careful of. We are told that if our freedom is causing someone else distress, then we are no longer acting in love (Rom.14:15). I don't think this means, don't do it if there's even a chance that someone, somewhere in the world will be offended (if this was the case, almost nothing would be permissible), but it does mean to think about how it might impact those around you. If it will grieve someone you know or you live in an area where it would be seen as the appearance of evil, don't do it.

We may never agree on this issue, Free Christian. But it doesn't really matter. God bless you.

@questdriven :

These seem very sensible and balanced comments; thank-you.

Yes, I agree that the weaker brother needs to be considered. (Sometimes covering a tattoo may be appropriate, such as an employee in a rather formal environment, maybe; to this might be added, in the presence of a weaker brother, I suppose.)

But also where you say 'there is no real harm in it, in and of itself. There is no harm in it as long as there is mutual respect...I can't really think of much damage getting a tattoo could cause'; yes, I agree, as well, especially if on the other hand the postive good that it might do in opening up many witness conversations and opportunities, as faith based designs have been well proven to do. In the end, it's a matter of individual judgment, in balancing out the different aspects of the matter that there may be, as regards the way they are prayerfully exercised in serving the Lord in witness.

(Just to develop one or two points: in my area, bank employees - often regarded as being in a quite formal environment - don't seem to have to cover their tattoos. Individual employees with tattoos might of course wish to cover them anyway. Re. people who might be offended: we do need to respect the weaker brother; there is also the fact that some determined Christians of a legalistic outlook are possibly set on voicing being offended at a whole host of things, yet there are many, doctrinally sound local churches that are not governed by the agendas of individuals determined to find fault, come what may.)

Hope this all makes some sense?

Blessings.

 

[farouk]

Sorry, Farouk, I didn't see this post earlier.

I meant in all cases... at least until I saw that picture. I can't say that it adds to her femininity, but I can't say that takes away from it either.

But, it would be MUCH more feminine if it were in purple. Just sayin.' ;)

I do think it's a nice, thoughtful tattoo. I think it's in a great place too. Most simply aren't going to get eye level to read it & therefore, they're forced to ask what it says thereby opening up an opportunity for dialogue.

Mizzy:

Okay, I hadn't forgotten your post! promised I would reply:

So purple is your favorite color, is it?

Blessings.

 

[Kaileymarie]

I see tattoos as a display of art rather than "scribbling on the walls". They are literally drawings, works of art made by people, drawn onto someone's skin.

When most women wake up for work or church they put on some nice clothes, do their makeup, style their hair, put in some earrings and maybe put on a necklace or a bracelet.

1 Timothy 2:8-10 I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.

This verse is pretty direct. Yet we still have some older Christians who feel like it's disrespectful to not wear your "Sunday's best" to church.

In my opinion this verse COULD be applied to tattoos as well. They are a decoration that draws attention and there is nothing modest about having a chest piece or sleeve. For this reason if I could go back with the mindset I have now I would never have gotten any of my tattoos, because just like I do not adorn myself with earrings and expensive clothes, I would not want to adorn myself with "showy" tattoos. That being said I do want to get a faith based tattoo. A simple, modest tattoo for myself. Farouk has pointed out many times already that a faith based tattoo has a different meaning behind it than getting a tattoo just for show. Understanding the difference between motives is crucial here I think.

I dont think its about the church changing to fit the times. It's about the church being christ like and accepting everyone regardless.

I have yet to see a verse directly speaking about tattoos. And I have yet to see any historical evidence refuting the notion that Moses was in favor of tattoos.

 

[farouk]

I see tattoos as a display of art rather than "scribbling on the walls". They are literally drawings, works of art made by people, drawn onto someone's skin.

When most women wake up for work or church they put on some nice clothes, do their makeup, style their hair, put in some earrings and maybe put on a necklace or a bracelet.

1 Timothy 2:8-10 I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.

This verse is pretty direct. Yet we still have some older Christians who feel like it's disrespectful to not wear your "Sunday's best" to church.

In my opinion this verse COULD be applied to tattoos as well. They are a decoration that draws attention and there is nothing modest about having a chest piece or sleeve. For this reason if I could go back with the mindset I have now I would never have gotten any of my tattoos, because just like I do not adorn myself with earrings and expensive clothes, I would not want to adorn myself with "showy" tattoos. That being said I do want to get a faith based tattoo. A simple, modest tattoo for myself. Farouk has pointed out many times already that a faith based tattoo has a different meaning behind it than getting a tattoo just for show. Understanding the difference between motives is crucial here I think.

I dont think its about the church changing to fit the times. It's about the church being christ like and accepting everyone regardless.

I have yet to see a verse directly speaking about tattoos. And I have yet to see any historical evidence refuting the notion that Moses was in favor of tattoos.

Kaileymarie:

(Highlighted section, above: )

Re. when you next go under the inking needle for the faith based tattoo you really desire, it sounds like it will thrill you more than any of your other tattoos, because the ink it pumps in will enable you by this means to relate and share your convictions to others in order to glorify the Lord most of all.

I think that such plans and aspirations just show how valuable a tattoo parlor service - run by Christians or otherwise - can be for Christian men and women, who in complete tattoo equality can share their faith in this moving and proven, effective way.

@Mizzy, above, was, in a manner a little similar to you, @Kaileymarie, raising the question of whether women can in theory be somewhat too bold in getting tattoos, in the way men have done traditionally. Well, I think it's fair to say that, especially given that 59% of people getting tattoos in America are now women, many Christian women, instead of being carried away with nostalgia for an era when women — the 19th century examples of Jennie Jerome Churchill, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, etc notwithstanding — supposedly didn't get tattoos, have quietly and serenely chosen to embrace this aethetically becoming and proven effective way of ink witness, whether with Bible references, Christian fish symbols and other designs, strategically pumped in at modest placements.

Blessings.

 

[farouk]

PS:

...I do think it's a nice, thoughtful tattoo. I think it's in a great place too. Most simply aren't going to get eye level to read it & therefore, they're forced to ask what it says thereby opening up an opportunity for dialogue.

@Mizzy :

Just to add, re. another part of your response:

Yes, placement has a lot to do with it, right?

Earlier you also referred to the matter figuratively lying generally between 1 Corinthians 6:12 & 1 Corinthians 8:9. Clearly the one in the linked picture will have been regarded as far more relating to 'all things are lawful' in 1 Corinthians 6.12, than to 1 Corinthians 8.9! Society and the Christians that live in it are hardly likely to go back to the floor length dresses of Victorian times (though there's nothing wrong with them) and such a placement, whether foot, ankle, wrist, etc. would be very widely regarded as perfectly modest and appropriate.

Blessings.

 

[George Muller]

Ask yourselves this, I have.
What if what I, me Free Christian, am advocating and advising others is wrong? What harm have I caused or could cause.
Not to get one?
Nothing, no harm.
What if what others are advising or advocating is wrong?
To get one??? And it is actually Biblically wrong?
My stance is harmless, even if its wrong. I don't believe it is wrong but am posing this as a fair logical question.
Would the stance of being "for" getting one be harmless if it was wrong?

I like this thought, and like many things in our walk with the Lord, each believer must answer to God with their own conscience. Like buying a new car? It very well could be an act of the flesh (issue of pride or lust) for some and for others could very much be the will of God for that person." I WILL BE THEIR GOD AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE" Can be the only answer to some issues.

I have read some more of the post on this thread and although I would not suggest a tattoo to others, I do find that those who support this idea seem to have thought out the motives of why they desire these markings. I would say be prayful on all things and even if we miss it a little here and there, the Lord will honor our desire to please him.

 

[farouk]

I have read some more of the post on this thread and although I would not suggest a tattoo to others, I do find that those who support this idea seem to have thought out the motives of why they desire these markings. I would say be prayful on all things and even if we miss it a little here and there, the Lord will honor our desire to please him.

George Muller:

Thank-you, and yes, you are right: no individual Christian should press on another the burden of a faith based tattoo (by burden, I guess I mean the spiritual exercise and - joyful? - taking of responsibility).

It's fair to say that most of the born again Christians who take this step do so not in competition with other people to be more glamorous (in fact, much faith based ink is in small designs that are quite low key and in modest placements). But rather, the pastor's daughter leaving home for college, the young man entering the military, the homeschooling mom who has a lot of contact with other moms, etc., tend to ask for ink to be injected into them in faith based designs (such as a Bible reference or the simple fish sign, on a wrist, foot or ankle, etc.) because they sincerely want to be a witness.

This is usually the reason. And the Lord knows.

Blessings.

 

[Free Christian]

I sort of wonder about the need to get a tattoo to witness or open a conversation.
God had supplied us with almost limitless way to do so with no need of a picture needled into ones skin which causes the skin to die and the body go into repair mode.
The Bible says we are surrounded by the glory of God, that man is inexcusable with what surrounds him in the world to deny God. There are conversation starters supplied by the Lord everywhere. Animals and their wonder, the amazing human eye, space, evidences of the global flood, the amazing flight of humming birds, plants... the list is huge. All proofs of a creator and all amazing God supplied conversation starters. If you cant see an opening for a conversation about God in all that surrounds us, well...
Here's an article on tattoo's which I reckon is ok www.prc.org put into their search engine "volume 8 number 22"

 

[evenifigoalone]

Search wouldn't work for me.

I know next to nothing about tattooing, but there are plenty of things which are best decided after thoroughly informing oneself. If someone understands any risks and still decides to do it, well...their freedom to do so. It's their life.
I myself would probably prefer just drawing on myself with a pen now and then.