I have a tattoo on my arm. It’s pretty big. For whatever reason, the subject of getting tattooed and questions about tattoo stuff have come up a lot lately.
It’s been around a year and a half since I was last tattooed and I’m scheduled for a 4-hour tattoo session tomorrow at 3pm. I’ll be getting the inside of my upper arm worked on and hopefully get close to finishing out my full sleeve with it.
Tattoos are something I’ve been fascinated with ever since I was little. I just find it amazing that someone can transfer something so beautiful to someone’s skin…they just draw me in. In my particular case, I see my tattoos as a ministry tool. When someone is what you might call “far from God”, they seem much quicker to come and talk to me than to someone in a three-piece suit.
My tattoos are also a witness to the amazing things God has done in my life. Images of storms we face, depictions of the Holy Spirit, and the soon arriving portrait of Jesus are a constant reminder of just how good God really is.
While tattoos are becoming more and more socially acceptable (still a rough sell if they’re on your forehead), they are not quite as welcomed throughout the church world. As a pastor, you can imagine the strange looks directed towards me and the often loss of “authority” or “respect” I obtain from uptight Christians who believe tattoos are a sin. It’s cool though…I’m always up for a challenge.
You can imagine my surprise when I heard news this weekend that a women’s group from our church set out on a field trip and all got tattooed together…in highly visible areas! Oh, did I mention that my beautiful mother-in-law Tracy was one of those women who got tattooed?
Scripturally, tattoos can be argued for or against.
Often, arguments that tattoos are okay for Christians revolve around Christian freedom or the fact that the law of God was fulfilled when Jesus died on the cross. This shuts up most of those who are ready to argue Leviticus 19:28 which says, “Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD.”
This verse was laid smack dab in the middle of a list of Old Testament Mosaic Laws, most of which were needed during that time for safety or other implications of that era. I always like to take a look at the verse right before the one that says NO TATTOOS for a little eye-opener. Leviticus 19:27 says, “Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard.”
Hmm…so we don’t have any problem with people cutting their hair or men trimming their beards, but we are quick to judge those with tattoos or piercings. Hmm.
Another huge argument is that our body is a temple and that we are desecrating it by adding things to it that were not intended to be there. I remember when I was still dating Allison, and her grandpa came up to me pointing to my earrings and said, “Don’t you think if God wanted to wear those things you would have been born with them?”
I told him I felt the exact same way about clothing. He’s liked me ever since.
What it comes down to is this:
Your heart. Where is your heart on the issue? If you feel uneasy about it and you just don’t like the idea of it…then don’t get tattooed. Just try to not be a Judgmental Judy when it comes to others having tattoos. And if you’ve wanted one, but you were unsure if it was “okay” for some reason, rest assured that God is far more interested in our love for Him and our hearts than weather or not we have some ink on us.
95 Comments
actually I am one who doesn’t have any but have come to really appreciate them… I would love to have one but I argue back and forth with myself over different aspects of my own walk. I think it is different for every person and I don’t think Leviticus 19:28 is a real good argument, especially when almost every single woman has pierced their eyes in today’s society.
I am not sure it is right for me in my ministry work, but I would love to have one and can appreciate those who do or don’t choose to have one. Not sure that is very definitive.
{reply}
I am so glad someone finally addressed the scripture side of this whole argument. It has always driven me crazy that people pick what they want out of the bible to prove their point without including the surrounding passages. I, for one, love tattoos. My husband has 4 and my best friend and I are getting matching ones here in the next month or so. It’s a form of self expression and, for me at least, a way to show what is important to me. I would never just go get a “tramp stamp” but I am going to get a red rose with 2 lines from a poem in memory of my grandfather who just passed. If you get tattooed for the right reasons I say ROCK ON!
{reply}
Whoa, I just today wrote about wanting another tattoo. As a Christian, I don’t have a problem with them. (Unless it’s something of a satanic nature, but I think that issue is far bigger than the tattoo itself.) I know a lot of people think tattoos are horrible. I suppose that it’s either their personal conviction or their judgment. However, I like to believe that God is a lot bigger than the box He often is put in, and that there are much worse things we can (and do) do.
I can’t wait to see pics!
{reply}
ive always been fascinated with tattoos and would love to get one.
i just havent found something that really speaks to me that i would want to wear on my body for the rest of my life.
but yours are awesome!!! goodluck with the 4 hour session.
{reply}
Thank you SO much for this post! I have long felt the same way, having 3 tattoos myself, and have come up against the same argument from people. That verse in Leviticus, man does it get a lot of use it seems! And I too will point out the verse before it.
I believe people have a right to disagree with me, but I hate it when they JUDGE me for it. I am happy to be part of a good ol’ Jesus-Follower-Love-Wins church where people of many different backgrounds can disagree together and still love Jesus.
{reply}
I don’t have any and won’t get one, only because I’m deathly afraid of the needles and of what they’ll look like on me when I’m 80!
I think it’s perfectly acceptable when they tell a story. It is a great tool to share faith. I saw a young kid in sacking groceries and caught a glimpse of one all along the inside of his arm, I though, “Wow, that’s a long tattoo, then noticed why it was so long: Phillippians 4:13! That can be used for him to share his faith. THen again, when I went to the biker rally in Galveston(with a biker friend) and have seen all kinds and it offends me when I see vulgarity and/or foul language for all to see, especially if I have a child with me. THose kinds should be kept under wraps! so… that’s MHO! Can’t wait to see your finished work!
{reply}
I’ve never had a problem with them, or people who have them. My husband and I were watching LA Ink the other night (which is so random for us, but I think Survivorman was on before it… he likes that show). The tattoo artists, and they truly are artists, did such beautiful work!!
I have 2, both from before accepted Christ, and I somewhat regret them… but really, most days I forget they are there :o) I would like another, just need to find the time & money :o) My husband would love to get his first, he just can’t narrow down his choice :o)
I agree, Ryan, the artwork can really breakdown the ‘barrier’ when talking with people who aren’t where you are spiritually. Someone with artwork looks so much more approachable (or at least it gives you a great lead in, most LOVE to show off! :o).
Can’t wait to see your finished sleeve!
{reply}
I’ve been wanting to get a tattoo for nearly 5 years. I have prayed about it and thought about it plenty of times, and have no convictions against it. I have even drawn up a few sketches of what I want. My only problem is procrastination. I have yet to put for the effort to actually go to a tattoo parlor and get an artist to do a better sketch. Another factor is that I find it difficult to justify spending the $$$ on a tat in these economic times. Gotta have your priorities in order, and spending money on art just isn’t high on the list right now.
{reply}
Tattoos are the ultimate icebreakers with people that have them or don’t have them, for those that like or dislike them. They allow people to enter into conversations to discuss the story why they got them and when. Plus what kind of tattoo they are going to get next because it seems you can’t stop after
you get one.
Tattoos help display outwardly the inner-identity that person has because majority of the time they get a tattoo to mark an event, personal interest, a type of philosophy or change in their life.
I myself have wrestled around with getting a tattoo several times but I’ve never been concrete on what I would get. Perhaps I’ve seen too many old people with tattoos and remind myself that what it’ll look like in 20 to 40 years. Or perhaps it’s because I have moles peppered across my body and every time I think about a tattoo I’m singing “Connect the dots, lalalalala, Connect the dots, lalalalala.”
{reply}
I love body art! When it glorifies God I don’t see how it can be wrong. Especially used as a ministry tool.
This reminds me of a conversation I had with someone recently when I mentioned I was with some people who were listening to heavy metal Christian music. This person quickly became judgmental and told me Christians aren’t supposed to listen to that kind of music. I asked her “Says who?”. She just said, “I was told that”. Ummm, yea… ok! It drives me insane! This person is supposedly a “Christian”. But yet, it’s ok for her to cuss and hang out with people who do unGodly things. Whatever! I witnessed to her to help her see more clearly. I think it went in one ear and out the other.
Ryan, thanks for sharing your art ministry with us. Rawk on d00d.
{reply}
I enjoy the artwork, personally. I have several friends that are covered in tats. My husband has a few. We have talked about having our wedding bands tattooed, just haven’t gotten to it yet. SC is sort of behind the times as far as tattooing is concerned. I have always wanted one (other than the band..) but have never found one that I could commit a lifetime towards.
I grew up attending Baptist/Methodist churches. They would be the first in the line for using Lev 19:28. I attend a PH church now that is more accepting of things over all. I find that it is easier for me, as a Christian, to accept different things when I have a church that will back me on it.
{reply}
Great arguments!! thanks.
{reply}
I have 6 and they are all special memories to me. Some more than others, but I find them beautiful and am always interested in the reason behind them. When I first got tattoos it was because I liked this image or that image. Last year I suffered a bad injury that left me on crutches for almost 8 months and at points I questioned whether I would walk again. When I did walk I decided to get a tattoo of a crutch rising out of waves (I got injured in a wave), the waves start red and then turn blue (red because I got a blood clot due to the injury) and then the word “Transcend” is over the top because it’s important to me to remember that I can overcome anything. This piece is so powerful to me and has made me look at tattoos in a whole different light.
{reply}
Your going to burn in Hell Ryan Detzel, you and your mother in law too!
Seriously though, as fun as picking and choosing which Old Testament laws are still applicable may be, I try to stay away from it. This probably stems back to my love of bacon. Personally I like tattoos. I don’t have any because of my fear of long term commitment.
{reply}
Personally I think its wrong to dismiss Lev. 19:28. Otherwise we can dismiss lust, murder,sleeping with your neighbor. If you believe in the word , you live it. We can’t pick and choose as a convenience. Anyway thats my 2 cents worth. I think you know my stance already.
{reply}
I get the passage from Leviticus a lot too; about those that are of the tribe of Satan will be marked with tattoos. My husband and I are heavily tattooed. He has nearly completed a full body suit, while I am taking a break from getting tattooed to be pregnant instead. I have found that it works a lot for me as a ministry tool too. I say KEEP GOING!
{reply}
p.s. How beautiful is your mother in law?!
{reply}
I like this post. My husband has one on his forearm, and is asked about it all the time, but I don’t believe he’s ever been judged for it. I’ve always wanted one, but am not that into the pain part of it-never quite agreed with the “suffer to be beautiful” philosophy.
The Dan, you’re a hoot-I too joke that I avoid Leviticus, for the same reason!
{reply}
First, I love your sleeve and can’t wait to see it when it’s finished! As to tattoos in general, I have one and plan to get more; my fiancé has thirteen and is thinking about several more. We plan to get at least two matching inks after we get married (bands on the ring finger and spur rowels). Some of his have religious meaning for him, while mine is more spiritual. I understand that others don’t like them, and that’s fine, but I enjoy them for myself and for others as long as they mean something. I adhere to a personal set of rules (no marking the body in remembrance of the dead, etc.) but as long as they’re not vulgar or distasteful, I see no reason not to adorn oneself. Well-thought ink will tell a story on its own, and can bring people together - like yours have.
Just be prepared to deal with the sag later in life!
Continue happily on God’s path! You’re doing wonderful things.
Kate
{reply}
I am not Christian, so I can’t really speak from that position, but I appreciate tattoos. I don’t have a tattoo, yet. I plan to get a small one very soon. A heart. Which is what caught my eye in your post.
This heart is unique and has special meaning to me. My daughter has the same one…for the same reason.
http://glassdragonfly.blogspot.com/2008/06/tattoo-as-therapy.html
{reply}
ps. Jesus repeats and expounds upon 9 of the 10 commandments in the New Testament (all of the except the Sabbath). Just because your allowed to get tattoos while eating pork doesn’t mean your allowed to steal your neighbors idol because you wanted it so bad, have an affair then kill the husband while cursing God and your parents. You have to draw the line somewhere.
{reply}
I am completely fine with tattoos and have explored the thought of getting one myself…..but I’m a weenie. I was going to celebrate turning 40 with a tattoo….I’m almost 41. HA! And if I was to get one I would want it to be original and special and I just haven’t come up with an idea yet. Our daughter (age 20) wants one on her wrist, where your Mom-in-law’s is, but I forget what she wants it to say…something in Hebrew.
{reply}
Being a “tattooed” pastor myself, this is something I deal with in my ministry. I’ve heard/read/discussed/etc… both sides of the argument.
I really believe it does come down to a personal conviction thing, which is directly related to the motives of our heart.
I currently have 2 tattoos which both represent things that Christ has done in my life.
I do think we have to be careful and not allow ourselves to be “addicted” to tattoos. When we allow something to have control over us as an addiction, then we are no longer allowing the Holy Spirit to be in control.
{reply}
I absolutely love tattoos. In fact I want to be a tattoo artist. I too run into the same loss of respect and authority where I work at City Gospel Mission. People come in all the time and ask me where the person in charge is (as i sit there in my vans with plugs in my ears and a septum ring and an arm full of tattoos and my beelistics tattoo hoodie) and I tell them “that’d be me! what can I do for you?!” and they just say… “ok nevermind ill come in tomorrow and talk to mike.” hahaha… people are so quick to judge. And if those same people would stop for 2.4 seconds to talk to me they’d feel differently. All of my tattoos are completely faith based and are all scriptural. I love tattoos, in revelations 9:11-16 we see two instances where it sure looks like when Jesus comes back he’s got some sweet tattys!
11I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. 12His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. 13He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 14The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. 15Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.”[a] He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written:
KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.
So basically he’s gonna have “King of Kings and Lord of Lords” o his thigh and a name “Written” on him that no one knows but himself!
I bet people will think… “wow i didnt think Jesus would look like this…” and I’m gonna say “yes… thats the best thing i’ve ever seen”
And as for the temple thing… What kind of temple doesnt have some sweet art portraying what the temple stands for? I’ve never seen one that didnt!
Tat tat tat it up!!!
-Austin King
{reply}
have one and getting my next one..they are very symbolic to me….just love to hear someones story about thiers..
{reply}
Hey Friend,
so remember a week or so ago, when you asked who I was getting tattooed with?
I am so grateful for my tattoos, each one tells a story, and is a memory( some good, some..eh)
I am truly amazed by this group of women I am proud to call my friends. Each word or phrase describes us individually, and will be a constant reminder of God’s love.
His Amazing Grace ( Keli, Kelly, and Kelly)
That we are Forgiven (Tracy)
That we are Chosen ( me)
That we are Mighty Warriors ( Helen)
He is worthy of Praise ( Praise Be- Fran)
and the Trinity ( love dots- Maria- what a trooper!)
Looking forward to the next!
{reply}
I’m a big fan of tattoos. I have plans for more, but it comes down to money…
I just hate the fake ones like flash…they need to have meaning for me. Why would you do something permanent to yourself if it has no meaning to it?
Ryan, I think you should get people to send in pics of their tats and display them in a post…I think that would be interesting to see.
{reply}
I love tattoos. I have 2 myself. I would like to get a few more. I have not found the extra money to spend on them though. I have never been a fan of anything devilish looking. They creep me out but tattoos are a good way to express oneself. I too am much more at ease speaking to someone like you about religion than a person that is dressed in a suit. I try not to judge people since GOD is supposed to be the one true judge. I think that we all judge a little bit as it is in our nature. I love you MILs tattoo.
{reply}
So many comments already, both for and against - this has always been a touchy issue with people. I have one - got it back in my college days - its on my ankle and I usually wear socks so no one sees it. When I think about it, I want to get it removed. It was pre-Christ and I have enough internal scars to remind me of who I was - I don’t need any external ones. But frankly, since we’re saved under grace and not according to the law I think it becomes a personal issue. I believe we can be useful for God where and when he wants us to be - despite the way we look. However, that being said, we’re also directed to be different from the world. I don’t mean Amish different either - I mean we’re not to conform to the image of this world but be transformed by the renewing of our minds through Christ Jesus. Right now, I think tats are just plain trendy. And frankly, right or wrong, when I see someone with a huge tattoo it just screams “Hey world, look at me! I’m not interesting enough on my own to get your attention so I inked myself up so you’d notice me.” I’m not being judgmental here, just honest - remember, I too have a tattoo too. Also there is a huge cost factor involved in tattoos. When I think about the money selfishly spent getting tattooed, I can’t help but wonder how many Compassion children could have been helped, or how many pairs of shoes could have been bought for the needy kids, or how many extra meals could be served in a homeless shelter, or the extra number of people a free clinic could help, or Bibles that could be put in the hands of people in India and China and the Middle East, etc. I just see so many ways that we could use that money to impact our world for Jesus instead of drawing attention to our own stories.
{reply}
I’ve actually been feeling completely compelled to get my first one. Mainly while at church (so I’m guessing God doesn’t mind too much!). The past month has been one of the darkest times of my life, but God has been so faithful and loving. I want to get “beloved” in Hebrew, which is אהוב, on my left wrist. First I need to get a new job so I can afford it. I’m excited though!
{reply}
As one of the Amazing Grace Kelly’s listed above, I can say I was never into tattooes. And when I was considering getting one, I asked God to tell me if He didn’t want me to. He never did. I love my tattoo and the memory of that day and the beautiful women I shared it with will last forever. Now if I could just convince Doug that it really isn’t that terrible…….
{reply}
So, I love tattoo’s I have one in Hebrew on the inside of my arm and am getting ready to get a half sleeve on the same arm…..Also, I am a pastor for whatever that’s worth….When I was praying and researching the verse in Leviticus I came across a couple of different explanations for this verse….One, was being that God told people not to cut themselves because people had started cutting pagan symbols in to their arms in hopes that it would bring them good luck….Two, apparently people had trouble leaving their dead alone so what would happen is after someone had passed away they would burn the body and the take some of the ashes cut themselves and put the ashes into the cut…hence the don’t tattoo yourself…God, spoke against these in the OT because they were directly related to pagan practices….This is what my research taught me how accurate this is, who knows….I think Ryan put it best GOD KNOWS YOUR HEART
{reply}
I think it’s a non-issue - for me, anyway. I have a couple of tattoos (I’d have more, but my hubby’s not that into them). My brothers are both musicians - one has a full sleeve and then some, the other has none. My kids have grown up, surrounded by Godly people of all shapes and sizes and are just as comfortable with the tattooed and pierced as they are with the buttoned-up and panty-hosed. I remember one time, when my son was about 5, how impressed he was after looking at a friend’s tattoo of a scripture verse. I think the friend had told him they were words that God spoke. “God spoke on his arm!” was the best way he could make sense of it.
{reply}
I don’t care for tattoo’d anything….just my opinion though. As for the sleeves and covering the whole body, it reminds me of a joke about a woman who changed her appearance with too much plastic surgery.
Check it out:
A middle aged woman has a heart attack and is taken to the hospital. While on the operating table she has a near death experience. During that experience she sees God and ask if this is it. God says no and explains that she has another 30 years to live.
Upon her recovery she decides to just stay in the hospital and have a face lift, liposuction, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, etc. She even has someone come in and change her hair color. She figures since she’s got another 30 years she might as well make the most of it.
She walks out of the hospital after the last operation and is killed by an ambulance speeding up to the hospital. She arrives in front of God and complains: “I thought you said I had another 30 years.
God replies, “I didn’t recognize you.”
{reply}
The Leviticus people drive me crazy. As for “picking and choosing” @ #!5 goes…
please let me know if you have worn any cotton/poly blend clothes.
If you have, you are picking and choosing which Levitical laws to keep since Leviticus tells us not to wear clothing of mixed fibers.
{reply}
I must admit, you being a preacher with tattoos is a lot of what first drew me onto your blog. I think that says something… You draw the interest of certain kinds of people that a “uptight” preacher wouldn’t.
I have no tats, I can’t think of anything I’d want permanently inked into my skin. So that says to me I’m just not meant to have one… at least for now. I think they are beautiful works of art though.
{reply}
It is the nature of humans to look at another human and try to find fault. People are just more comfortable feeling that they are superior (or at least not as bad) as somebody else. People pick and choose which scriptures they will follow. Just because somebody doesn’t pick the same scripture as another doesn’t make them inferior. To me, it’s a bigger sin to judge. Live and let live.
Some of the best people I know have tattoos.
Some of the worst people I know are bible-thumpers.
As for me, I plan on getting a tattoo. A phoenix, since I have been rising from the ashes all of my life…
{reply}
While I have no desire to have one myself (personal reasons) I do not have a problem with them. I had never thought to look to the verse before the “no tattoo verse” in Deuteronomy…thanks for pointing that out. I’ll have to remember it the next time I hear a “3 piece suit” pastor tell why tattoos are wrong. Chances are he doesn’t have a beard.
{reply}
I was 39 when I got my tat. It is a bear in memory of my Mama who I lost to cancer 2 years ago. It is on my right shoulder and I always say “Nana Ma’s got my back.” LOL! For me the bear also represents strength, courage and protection as I am a single mother. Losing someone you love leaves a void, but opens you up to God’s love even more…for me anyway.
By the way, great tats! I think I’m done. Under my bear I have an eagle feather which represents the Path of the Feather. It is a spiritual path. That is another story.
{reply}
I personally now have six tattoos and have plans to add more to that. But I do have a strong view on the issue. I think Tattooing can be very spiritual and that putting a mark on your body that will be there forever should be something that has meaning TO YOU. Each of my tattoos mean something very deep to me and I’m glad I waited until later in my life to get my first one because it gave me time to understand what it is was I was doing. I love my tattoos but I love even more that when someone ask “what does that one mean.” I not only have an answer but I have story behind it.
{reply}
god loves me more when i love myself more. the tattoos and piercings i have are just another way of me expressing my love for myself.
i love yours. fabulous artwork.
{reply}
["Personally I think its wrong to dismiss Lev. 19:28. Otherwise we can dismiss lust, murder,sleeping with your neighbor. If you believe in the word , you live it. We can’t pick and choose as a convenience. Anyway thats my 2 cents worth. I think you know my stance already."]
In that case, let’s talk about this: “Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard.” Sir, according to your own logic… in the picture you have on your blog you have most certainly trimmed your hair and beard. Clearly this proves that you are not a true believer in The Word and you can easily dismiss the negative aspects of murder and lust just as easily as any tattoo haver.
Now that I got that out of my system, I love tattoos. I have three that each hold a special meaning that is dear to my heart. They seem completely silly when I tell people what they are without proper explanation. After all, a robot, a mushroom and two tiny elephants trying to fly seem ludicrous. But that’s okay. Because the stories behind them mean something to me. I’m not out to prove anything to anybody. I’m not attention seeking. I’m love seeking. I love my tattoos and I love myself. Being able to see these reminders of the troubles I’ve overcome makes me stronger.
{reply}
I don’t think I’ve ever posted before, but I’ve been reading for a while…I find it ridiculous to judge anyone for any part of their appearance; tattoos, piercings, hair color, clothes. I guess I’ve just always worried about the condition of my soul, you know, the beauty of my insides.
{reply}
Personally, I don’t think we should be making tattoo’s an issue. Who really cares if you have one or not.
I think if Jesus were present here, now, his friends would be sporting some good tattoo’s. Oh, my, did I just say that ? : ) Ryan, you are doing a fantastic job in your ministry, and reaching out to those who are hurting or in need. That should be the real focus for all of us. I think for those of you who have them…. Great! For those of us who don’t… well, that’s great too! : )
{reply}
BTW: Maybe I should even sport a ‘non-spiritual’ tattoo… I wonder if that would raise a brow? : )
{reply}
Ryan! You linked to me in your post — I am so cool now! I’ll be praying for you from 3pm-7pm tomorrow because — Ouch!
{reply}
I’ve always wanted to do it … but I’m way too big of a chicken.
{reply}
I needed a laugh…and boy did I get it from your remark to grandpa. thanks.
And being a woman searching for her faith and trying to find her place in God’s eyes…it’s always good to know that my love for the art of tattooing is not only my love, but one shared by many.
{reply}
Correction.
Weather=whether.
It made me happy that you did that, but you probably already noticed, or maybe someone else pointed it out, but I didn’t feel like reading through all of your comments.
{reply}
Oh I love Tattoos! I think they are beutiful works of art. I understand the arguments against but I just don’t agree with them. I think anything can be evil if you choose to let it. I have 4 tattoo’s and am always plotting my next one!
Sheila
{reply}
Great blog subject. Oldest teen got not one but 2 in 10 days right before Christmas. I was very quick to read the old testament verses to her from the blog and once it sunk in I also read her the ones about cutting of beards and hair. So she knew what the response should be if others give her grief
{reply}
I was so blessed to have been a part of that wonderful group of women who got tattooed on Saturday! I have no doubt in my spirit that Jesus was there having joyous fun with us…And all of our tats represent something very personal between each woman and her Father God. They are permanent reminders of some special time when God was with us, is with us and always will be with us.
Craig, our artist was also great! And I have already referred 3 people to him.
Love your post! And especially Fran’s blog that you linked to!
H.
{reply}
ps- I am not crying in the pictures on Fran’s blog in PAIN- I was moved by something that was said by Craig about the spirit of Jeremiah.
being a Christian is not for the weak…..
{reply}
I’m fine with tattoos. I have one. I want more. I have a peace sign on the outside of my ankle. It’s not there to say NO NUKES. It is there to remind me of the peace that GOD only offers.
I want “Be Still” on the inside of my wrist.
{reply}
I’m so glad you addressed this. I was wondering your thoughts on this. I am a christian and I do have 3 tattoos. I like you have always thought it’s what on the inside that counts.
{reply}
I guess I’m the jerk of the bunch. I for one am not a big fan of those things. I have nothing against those who have them and I really can’t imagine Ryan without any. As for myself, no thanks. And I’m not at all thrilled that Kelly got one, especially since she got it somewhere that I can see it. But, I must admit, for a tattoo, it doesn’t look all that bad. For a tattoo.
{reply}
I’m another one of the Kelly’s from Saturday. It was an amazing day! To be a bunch of Christian women and then to be tattooed by a pastor…..wow! A couple of years ago I would have laughed at you if you would have asked me if I would get a tattoo. I now have 5! They all have a lot of meaning to me. Memory of my mom, my baptism, and an opportunity to talk about Christ - this Saturday I got Amazing Grace in hebrew. I can’t wait for someone to ask me what it says, so I can start up a conversation, I might not have otherwise.
I don’t know if getting a tattoo just to get a tattoo is such a good idea, but when they are done with love and a purpose, I think they can be amazing!
Thank you so much for having us reflect….
God Bless
{reply}
Thanks so much for posting this!!! I myself have three and I love them. I don’t think Jesus is so much concerned with what we have on our bodies. I think He is far more concerned with the state of our hearts and souls and our relationship with Him. I like Amy’s comment (#3) - God is far greater than the box we try to put him in.
{reply}
Very well put. I love tattoos. I think the art and story behind each tattoo is beautiful. Some can be private, some can be more visible and public. To each their own.
{reply}
YEAH!!! GO TRACY!!!!
{reply}
THANK YOU RYAN!
{reply}
Theres a guy at my church who wears a t-shirt that says “Jesus loves my tattoos”. …a little presumptuous, but if they honor Him, He probably does.
Your sleeve is great, you’ll have to tell us the full story some time!
{reply}
well said.
{reply}
Ryan thanks for posting this blog! I was one of the blessed ladies that got together and got tattoed. My tattoo is very small but it means the world to me. It was a chance to show something I had done on my own to honor my God and my friends. I love the fact that although others see it as really small and simple tattoo, to me it means the world.
{reply}
Hope everything goes smoothly tomorrow! Looking forward to seeing what the finish product looks like.
{reply}
I loved the comment to gramps!!!! I have one on my ankle, and adore it.
{reply}
“…I told him I felt the exact same way about clothing.”
I *love* this line. My father disproves of my pierced (only once!) ears and my tattoo (only one so far!) and I have heard this line from him over and over. I will now happily steal your reply!
I often lurk but wanted to say thanks for the line and also, I hate mushrooms. I saw you pictures and recipe on PW and now eat mushrooms as often as I can convince the kids they wont die from them. Completely enjoy reading your site. Thanks
{reply}
I love tattoos and hope to get more. I just have one on my right wrist, an abstact looking butterfly with a little “Q” below it. The tattoo honors my 16 year old sister’s memory. She died of cancer 4 years ago, her name was Susie and we called her Susie Q or just Q. Well I wanted tattoos before she passed. This was just the first time I worked up a nerve to do it. I hate needles, but I figured I could bleed a little to have a reminder of her on my body forever.
The thing is I’m a High School youth leader at our church and I get a few looks here and there from parents or other leaders. The students think it’s cool - that’s all that matters to me.
{reply}
Pastor Ryan, I have often been a lurker on your website. I read it a lot and I have often wondered why you are tatooed and have earrings.
I am writing all the way from Nigeria. This is a country in West Africa.I am a daughter of a very conservative Pastor, although I am now married with two kids. I do not like being judgemental because i went throgh a very judgemental period in my 3rd year at the university. I try to accept people unless they provethemselves otherwise.
Over the Christmas, i noticed that my younger brother had gotten a tatoo. I wavered between anger and acceptance. I know my parents are going to raise a lot of hell when they find out because the Christian over here are stilll very conservative. i would have been too but reading your blog has made the difference.
Congratulations to the women who stepped out courageously to get tatoos. I pray to be an “sister who is there” for my brother. Even though i may not understand his reasons for getting the tatoo. God bless you and your wife.
{reply}
Having very recently studied Leviticus I had these very thoughts and questions on my mind. As the holder of one small tattoo, I wondered what God must think of my “desecration” of the temple but I think you answered the question pretty well. BTW, your tattoos are absolutely beautiful, truly artful. Always love to read your blog, keep it up.
{reply}
I think your tattoos are friggin’ awesome and my girlfriend and I are also getting tattooed again within the next two weeks. I like the idea of using them as a minstry tool. I just have to balance my ink with business requirements. I want to get the entire 23rd Psalm tattoed on me…I am just not sure where. I dont want to put it on my back because I want to be able to look at it and enjoy it. Anyway, I am enjoying the blogs and I enjoyed the “open eyes” message on Sunday
{reply}
I have just one tattoo, on my shoulder blade. When people I know tell me my body is a temple, I just tell them that my temple needed some stained glass. That usually shuts them up.
Love the sleeve!
{reply}
I am a practicing Orthodox Jew and have been all my life. I’ve always wanted a tattoo and I spoke in-depth to my Rabbi about the prohibition in Judaism regarding tattoos. The explanations we found (unfortunately I no longer know the source) is that in context of the entire chapter, tattooing is forbidden - meaning if one were to get it as part of a pagan ritual (idolatry) or if one were to get a pagan symbol itself tattooed to ones body, it is prohibited.
(And the prohibition against cutting one’s beard and sidelocks are why Orthodox men cut their hair a certain way and why the ultra-Orthodox men have long beards and long side-curls).
My pet peeve though is when people get a tattoo in a language they don’t speak or get symbols they know nothing about. And unfortunately the reason was very apparent in the photo of the woman who got her tattoo in Hebrew. After reading through the comments (and guessing), I assumed she MEANT to have Amazing Grace tattooed in Hebrew onto her arm. What she ended up with is Amazing CHARITY. The Hebrew word for grace is ‘Chen’ (with the gutteral ‘ch’) and not Chessed (also with the gutteral ‘ch’), which is what she has.
{reply}
“the Christian over here are stilll very conservative. i would have been too but reading your blog has made the difference.”
If that doesn’t fill you with awe at the amazing power of the Holy Spirit as it flows through you, nothing will!
{reply}
I agree with what your saying Ryan. Tattoos are no longer a sign of criminals or “hoodlums”. I think that tattoos are more a sign of individual expression than anything else. Times have changed ang it high time that people learn to change with them. I have a few tattoos myself and every tattoo I have or plan on getting is either a tribute to a dead family member or an outward expression of who I am. Getting a tattoo is no different than the clothes on your back or the artwork on your wall, an espression of the artistic side or the fondness of artwork. So criticizing someone for the tattoos on their body is no different than making fun if someone for the clothes they wear, the art work they enjoy or the music they listen too…. So I ask of anyon who thinks about critcizing tattoos to stop, and think of how it would feel if we cricizd you for your clothes.
{reply}
once again i’m all, dude, is ryan my brother from another mother???? i have three tattoos. EVERYONE is shocked when they learn this. they are all covered when i wear clothing. when i’m in a bathing suit people are ALWAYS STARING AT ME. they can’t believe a lanky blonde who looks so waspy and yuppie could ever get tattoos. that goes to show, don’t judge a book by it’s cover. i’m planning on getting more. good luck tomorrow with the four hour session!!! i’m one of those ‘freaks’ who enjoys getting inked. i laughed so hard when my side piece was done… bc on the ribs? yeah. it tickles like a mo fo.
{reply}
I’m not that into the way tattoos look but I don’t think they are “wrong” per se. My only issue is that people wait until they are close to adulthood to pick out something that will ALWAYS be special to them. I know several people that regret their tattoos. Also, as a midwife I’ve seen lots of cute belly tattoos become completely mis-shapen due to pregnancy and they never quite look right again. My husband and I are Christians, and we both come from pretty conservative families. He is considering having our kids names put on his chest and I would be all for that. Our youth pastor has lots of tats and looks like a UFC fighter AND he’s an awesome godly man. The kids would love him whether or not he had the tats but I agree with you… I think they can be conversation starters with people who are not that “churchy”. The other piece of it to me is where they are located. The fact of the matter is if you are interviewing for a job in the corporate arena people really do have a problem with highly visible tats. Although they are super trendy they aren’t always embraced in certain workplaces. So if my son is headed for an engineering career or some other kind of professional environment I would feel so badly for him if he was discriminated against for having super visible tattoos. Lots of people are critical of super visible tattoos…not just judgmental Christians.
{reply}
Love this post!
Thank you so much for attacking this subject the way you did. I think tattoos are seen as “bad” by a lot of Christians, thank you for taking such a biblical view of this
{reply}
Another Scripture of interest is Galations 6:17 “Finally, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.” ‘marks’ here according to Strongs Concordance is ‘a mark pricked in or branded upon the body’. Not sure exactly what that one means…but it is worth throwing in there.
As the wife of a tattoed Jesus loving man who is apt to preach I kind of like them. He tattoos now, as a ministry pretty much…family and friends, started with adapting some of his early ones. If you are ever in South Alabama…come see us.
{reply}
I don’t really know where to start with this. I love tattoos (although I don’t have one of my own yet) but I’ve never really been able to “defend my position” when my more conservative Christian friends go after that one.
I have some thinking to do. Hopefully next time this comes up I can be a bit more eloquent!
{reply}
can we have this same discussion about the subject of drinking alcohol. pleeeeeeeeeeeeaze.
{reply}
I don’t have any tatoos myself but they don’t bother me either. I do admit that obscene ones aren’t fun to look at. And Ryan, I agree with you that yours make you more approachable to alot of people. I think they are a part of who you are.
{reply}
Hello! I read your recipes on The Pioneer Woman’s site. I have two small tattoos and don’t feel that tattoos are contrary to God, if they’re respectful and beautifully done. Tattooing, like any art form, is a skill given to people by God, and I feel it’s wrong not to use the talents we were given. I especially love that your tattoos enable you to be more approachable to the people that need you the most. Very similar idea to Jay Bakker’s “Revolution Church” - he reaches out to people who have lost God or who feel alienated by society, and the fact that he looks as he does (more punk rock than preacher) helps that cause. I also know a man like Maggie (#29) described. He’s not a pastor, but a straight-edge (no drugs or alcohol), “Christian metal” musician. He has two full sleeves depicting Biblical verses and themes and says that kids at shows will often ask him about them. He said that it’s another way to get God’s messages across to people. And that’s a good thing!
{reply}
Awesome post!!!
And I love the answer you gave your father in law. All this from a woman with no tattoos because pain is not my thing. They’d have to knock me out!!
julie
{reply}
Ryan,
I’m not the sort who comments on posts, nor am I the sort who gets a tattoo. Guess I am now that “sort” of person, since I’ve done both now. I am one of the women who went on the excursion last week. We first began discussing tattoos when ONE in our group announced she was planning another tattoo, and wondered if we like to join her. Without going into the apparent evolution of that initial conversation (results transparent) we laughed, cried, listened, nurtured, and loved each other. I have already been “judged” because of my ink, but am old enough to know (and have learned) that people having judgmental tendencies will do that no matter — it could be my clothes, hair, jewelry, skin tone (yes — people have told me I “need” a tan!), weight, and even ……. my shoes! (ohmygosh). I learning everyday to be more secure in myself, and grow in his love and “grace.”
Thank you for this blog, and generating this great discussion. You pretty much rock!
{reply}
So have you had opportunities to talk about faith matters as a result of a faith design tattoo?
{reply}
How is a tattoo different from lipstick, eye shadow or any other make-up, an ear ring or even a hair cut?
An interesting way to bring people to Christ.
{reply}
wow! im so glad to see another christian that has the same views as i do about tattoos! thanks!
{reply}
Mate, you’re a legend. I love your attitude. This is the first post I’ve read of yours (I googled something about tattoos). I’m a Christian youth leader in a South Australian church and got my first tatt about a month ago and have booked in for my second. The responses are amazing. I have a secular job to pay the bills and only one Christian colleague. She blatently said that my tatt looked satanic and evil (it’a a tiger/warrior design from Erwin McManus’ book The Barbarian Way, drawn by a Christian artist, so it’s very much not satanic!). And my youth dont care, but the one other person who gave negative feedback was a girl on my team at church (one of only 4 people at our church with a tatt!!). Crazy how people respond. It’s definately about the heart and you’ve said that so well. What amazes me is that the people who throw the “your body is a temple” verse at me are often unhealthily overweight men! Anyway mate, Hope the sleeve is coming along nicely! My next is “Be strong and courageous” in Hebrew on my inside right forearm. Can’t wait…no doubt it’ll be “satanic” too!
{reply}
Hi Ryan. I found your blog a little while back and have been reading your archives. I was never very religious, but was baptized Catholic when I was a baby, and attended Catholic school from grade 6 through HS graduation. I am just now, at age 29, realizing that I kind of have a calling to come back to the church (though not Catholic). Anyway - about your tattoos…I find you much more relatable because you do have tattoos and gauged ears. You seem much more real to me than the priests I grew up with. Because of your blog, I already feel closer to God. Thank you for having it and putting yourself and your faith out there for all of us to see.
~Stacey
{reply}
im so going to get a tat now, i was uneasy about it till i read this article.
{reply}
I guess God is against mullets if he doesn’t want hair cut short on the sides and long in the back. I always suspected that but it’s good to have Bibilcal proof.
{reply}
On 11/19/2009 I can say my life has changed in the most beautiful way. I am looking for a biblical quote to represent that day. This gives me so much comfort to know I am not alone on wanting to mark my body in remembrance of this date. I myself think tattoos are a beautiful way of telling a story. I currently have 5 tattoos (which NONE do I regret). I Thank you for all the stories shared. I am on search for the perfect tattoo to represent my special day.
I love this quote: Let go and Let God!! As children bring there broken toys with tears for us to mend, I brought my broken dreams to God because he was my friend. But then, instead of leaving Him in peace to work alone, I hung around and tried to help, with ways that were my own. At last, I snatched them back and cried, “How can you be so slow?” “My child, He said, “What cold I do? You NEVER did let go………… how beautifully said!!
{reply}
Amen, I totally agree with you. I have always felt that no matter what I look like as long as my relationship with God was strong it didnt matter. My mom has always made me feel bad about my tattoos but they are who I am and all mean something to me. Thank you for writing this
{reply}
Great pics and well written article. Thank you for sharing the true point of the subject…..its not about inking.
{reply}
2 Trackbacks
[...] Pastor Ryan (Reverb) On Tattoos: This made me want to share my thoughts. I don’t have any tattoos. Mostly if you really want the truth because I don’t have a love for needles. And I’ve never found something that I wanted to place on my person permanently yet. But they don’t bother me. Okay the guy completely covered in ink at the state fair gave me the creeps but then he might have given me the creeps without them if you know what I mean. Ink is permanent enough to warrant thought before action. But if it means something to do who am I to say how you decorate and express yourself. Though truthfully the naked woman on the arm of that one guy once….well I would have appreciated if he’d worn a bit longer shirt to the zoo as that was a bit of explaining I had to do with my then 4 year old son. [...]
[...] Tired. No Title. Jump to Comments Do you know Pastor Ryan? I love him. I love his tattoos. I love his gorgeous wife. I love his beautiful babies. I love his pan-seared mushrooms. I [...]