Tattoos, Leviticus, and Grace: Inked in the New Covenant

Opening Scripture:

“For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” (John 1:17)

Introduction: Ink Happens

Good morning, church! Today, we’re going to talk about a topic that comes up a lot—especially at family dinners where someone unveils a new tattoo. Maybe you’ve heard someone say, “Christians shouldn’t get tattoos! The Bible forbids it!”

So, let’s roll up our sleeves—both figuratively and literally—and dive into the Word. What does the Bible actually say about tattoos? Are we bound by the laws of Leviticus? And most importantly, how does the New Covenant through Jesus change how we understand all of this? Let’s get into it!

What Does Leviticus Say About Tattoos?

Let’s look at the verse that starts all the fuss:

“Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the Lord.” (Leviticus 19:28)

Now, on the surface, this might sound like a blanket “no tattoos” policy. But we have to understand context. This was written to the Israelites under the Old Covenant as part of the Mosaic Law.

Back then, pagan nations around Israel used tattoos as part of idol worship or mourning rituals for the dead. God wanted His people to be set apart—to look and act differently than the nations around them. Tattoos in that context were tied to paganism, not self-expression or art like they are today.

Do the Laws of Leviticus Apply to Us Today?

Here’s where it gets interesting. The Mosaic Law, including Leviticus, was a covenant between God and Israel. It included moral laws, ceremonial laws, and civil laws to guide them as a nation.

When Jesus came, He fulfilled the Law. The Apostle Paul explains this beautifully:

“Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.” (Romans 10:4)

This means we are no longer under the Old Covenant. That’s why you don’t see Christians avoiding shrimp, wearing only one type of fabric, or building backyard altars for burnt offerings. Those laws were specific to Israel at a specific time, pointing forward to Jesus.

We now live under the New Covenant, which is based on grace, not rules. So, if someone tries to use Leviticus to argue against tattoos, you might want to ask if they’ve ever had bacon or mixed fabrics. (Spoiler alert: they probably have!)

What Does the New Testament Say About Tattoos?

The New Testament doesn’t explicitly mention tattoos. What it does emphasize is the condition of our hearts and our relationship with Christ.

Paul writes:

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples 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 bodies.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Some people take this verse to mean “don’t get tattoos,” but Paul’s focus here is on sexual immorality, not ink. The question isn’t whether tattoos are sinful but whether they reflect your relationship with God. Ask yourself:

• Does this tattoo honor God or reflect something meaningful in your walk with Him?

• Is it done out of rebellion, or is it an expression of who you are in Christ?

• Does it glorify something that aligns with God’s character?

Remember, God cares more about the condition of your heart than the condition of your skin.

Freedom in Christ (and Common Sense)

Here’s the good news: In Christ, you have freedom!

Paul reminds us in Galatians 5:13:

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

This means you’re free to get a tattoo—but use that freedom wisely. Here’s some practical advice if you’re thinking about getting inked:

• Think it through: Tattoos are permanent (or really expensive to remove). Pray about it. Make sure it’s something meaningful, not just a spur-of-the-moment decision.

• Avoid stumbling blocks: If a tattoo could lead others to question your faith or cause division, it might not be worth it.

• Check your motives: Are you getting a tattoo to glorify God or to make a statement that doesn’t reflect Him?

Grace Over Judgment

Here’s the bottom line: Whether or not you have tattoos—or plan to get one—doesn’t determine your standing with God. We’re saved by grace through faith in Jesus, not by what’s on our skin.

Romans 8:1 says:

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

So if you have tattoos, you don’t need to feel ashamed. If you don’t, that’s okay too! The New Covenant is about living in grace and reflecting Christ in all we do, whether we’re inked or not.

Pastor’s Perspective: A Living Canvas

Now, let me tell you something from my own life. In case you didn’t notice, I’m covered in tattoos! Yep, your pastor is a walking canvas, and guess what? It’s absolutely okay. Every tattoo I have tells a story—some of them are personal, some reflect my journey with God, and some are just pieces of art that make me smile.

I’ve had people look at me and say, “But you’re a pastor! How can you have tattoos?” And here’s what I tell them: I’m living proof that God looks at the heart, not the skin. My tattoos don’t change my love for Jesus or my ability to share His Word. If anything, they open doors to conversations with people who might otherwise feel judged or unwelcome in church.

So, if you’re sitting there wondering if tattoos make you “less Christian,” let me assure you—they don’t. God cares about your heart, not your ink.

Remember, church, our faith isn’t about following old rules for the sake of appearances. It’s about walking in the freedom of Christ and using that freedom to glorify Him. So if you ever feel judged because of your tattoos, just remind yourself: your pastor is inked and unapologetic about it!

Conclusion: Jesus Wrote on Our Hearts

At the end of the day, God isn’t looking at the ink on your skin—He’s looking at the story written on your heart. The New Covenant is about freedom, grace, and love. So instead of focusing on what Leviticus says about tattoos, let’s focus on what Jesus says:

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34)

Whether you’re tattooed or not, love is the mark that truly identifies us as followers of Christ.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the grace we have in Jesus Christ. Thank You that we are no longer bound by the Old Covenant but live under the freedom of the New Covenant. Help us to walk in wisdom and love, using our freedom to glorify You and serve others.

For those considering tattoos, guide their hearts to make decisions that reflect Your character. And for all of us, teach us to focus not on outward appearances but on the condition of our hearts and the love we show to one another.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Now go forth, church, and let the only thing you judge be bad tattoo ideas!