Are We Asking the Wrong Question? truthsum.org

“Can a Christian get a tattoo?”

Few questions generate more debate among Christians. Some point to Leviticus 19:28, while others argue Christians are no longer under the Old Testament law. The discussion often becomes a debate over permission rather than a pursuit of wisdom.

Perhaps that’s because the question itself is too small.

Questions shape the way we think. When we ask, “Can I?” we’re looking for the minimum requirement. Scripture, however, consistently calls God’s people to something greater. Rather than asking only what is permitted, we’re taught to ask: Does this glorify God? Is it beneficial? Does it help me become more like Christ?

Leviticus 19:28 deserves careful study, and sincere Christians have reached different conclusions about how it applies today. But difficult questions are rarely settled by a single verse. They require us to reason from the broader principles of Scripture.

The deeper issue isn’t simply whether someone can get a tattoo—it’s why.

Our culture tells us to express ourselves, define ourselves, and show the world who we are. Jesus teaches something radically different: deny yourself, follow Me, and be transformed. The Christian life is not about preserving our identity but surrendering it to God.

That perspective reaches far beyond tattoos. It applies to our words, our choices, our habits, and every decision that shapes who we are becoming.

If you already have tattoos, this isn’t an invitation to shame. God’s calling is one of repentance, forgiveness, and continual transformation. Likewise, those without tattoos should guard against self-righteousness.

Perhaps the better question isn’t, “Can I get a tattoo?” but, “Will this help me become more like Christ?” That’s a question worth asking—not just about tattoos, but about every decision we make.