Mike Abdul Weighs In On Tattoo Controversy
Gospel Singer Mike Abdul Addresses Tattoo Controversy Surrounding Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo
Gospel singer Mike Abdul has entered the ongoing debate regarding Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo’s recent tattoo, which has elicited diverse responses among Christians online.
Pastor Okonkwo, the leader of David Christian Centre in Lagos and a well-known relationship coach, recently shared images of a tattoo on his arm. This led to a discussion about whether religious leaders should have body art.
In response to the backlash, Okonkwo stated that there is no explicit biblical prohibition against tattoos. He emphasized that a Christian’s faith should be measured by their character and actions, rather than their appearance. He characterized his tattoo as a personal choice, asserting that it does not contradict Christian values or follow cultural trends. Moreover, he noted that tattoos can serve as a means of expressing one’s faith.
Okonkwo pointed out that many objections to tattoos stem from individual preferences, church doctrines, or personal interpretations, rather than definitive scriptural mandates.
In a statement on his Instagram page, Abdul expressed his belief that tattoos do not dishonor the body. He highlighted the historical significance of tattoos in various cultures as symbols of identity, memory, status, or faith.
Abdul stated that the intent behind a tattoo is what truly matters, not the ink itself. He articulated that a tattoo can hold significance if it serves as a reminder of gratitude, purpose, or faith. He concluded that genuine spirituality is reflected in transformed lives, rather than the absence of body art.
“Tattoos were used for identity, memory, status, covenant, and storytelling across ancient cultures, nothing more,” Abdul wrote. “Tattoos don’t dishonor the body. What dishonors a temple is not writing on the walls. What matters is what the mark points to, not the mark itself. God reads hearts, not skin. Ink without conviction is decoration. Ink with conviction is remembrance. If a tattoo leads you closer to gratitude, identity, or reverence, it has served a good purpose for you. Faith is not proven by unmarked skin, but by transformed lives.”
