5 Things the Bible Forbids But We Still Do

Getting Tattoos

Scripture makes no specific reference to tattoos as we understand them in modern times. Some Christians condemn all tattooing as immoral because God clearly forbids them in Leviticus 19:28. The Old Testament law commanded the Israelites, “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:28). So, even though believers today are not under the Old Testament law, the fact that there was a command against tattoos may raise some questions.

While 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 does not directly apply to tattoos, it does give us a principle: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” This great truth should have a real influence on what we do and where we go with our bodies. Our bodies are so important to the Lord that He calls our bodies temples of God. Remember, we are commanded not to do things that will harm what is precious to Him. We are called to honor our personal temple in order to enter His.