Old Teaching on Tattoos Resurfaces Amid Church Controversy
An old sermon by Apostle Joshua Selman, the founder of Eternity Network International and Koinonia, has resurfaced and is trending online. This comes as conversations around tattoos in the church gain significant attention following Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo's recent tattoo reveal.
Selman's Wisdom-Based Warning to Believers
In the viral video, Selman responded to a question about tattoos, providing nuanced spiritual guidance. He explained that markings done before becoming born again do not carry spiritual consequences. However, he strongly advised Christians against getting tattoos after salvation.
The issue, according to Selman, is not merely about sin but more about wisdom. He noted that while some actions may be lawful, they can still affect how people perceive a believer's faith and ministry. To illustrate his point, Selman referred to the biblical parable of the ten bridesmaids, showing how even those considered pure could suffer because of unwise choices.
The Credibility Concern in Ministry
Selman emphasized that outward changes like tattoos might weaken credibility when preaching or praying for others. He urged believers to avoid decisions that could invite unnecessary doubt about their spiritual commitment.
"The true power comes from prayer, reflection, and a heart aligned with God, not from external modifications," Selman stated in the resurfaced teaching. He warned against copying foreign trends that could dilute spiritual strength and respect for God's principles, encouraging Christians instead to focus on inner transformation rather than outward displays.
Timing with Pastor Okonkwo's Tattoo Drama
Selman's teaching has regained prominence at a time when Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo of David Christian Centre is facing criticism. The pastor, who is also Burna Boy's uncle, recently unveiled a tattoo of John 3:16 on his arm, sparking mixed reactions across Nigeria's Christian community.
Some have cited biblical warnings against body markings, particularly referencing Leviticus 19:28, while others have defended Okonkwo's decision as a creative way to share the gospel message.
Nigerian Reactions to the Resurfaced Teaching
Nigerians have reacted strongly to Selman's resurfaced video, with many agreeing that spiritual leaders should avoid certain actions to protect weaker believers, even if those actions aren't strictly sinful.
Social media comments reveal divided opinions:
- @Olivia Carter emphasized: "Nigeria you have something beautiful. Do not take everything you see in the West and follow it."
- @iveren_tomori commented: "Not everything that is allowed is helpful especially for a Spiritual Leader. True wisdom is choosing what builds character."
- @carolineoshodi referenced scripture directly: "Lev 19:28 Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you."
Defense from Evangelist Kesiena Esiri
Amid the controversy, Evangelist Kesiena Esiri, founder of the Remnant Christian Network, has defended Pastor Okonkwo's decision. Speaking during one of his church services, Esiri stated that getting a tattoo is not a sin.
According to Esiri, Leviticus 19:28 was an instruction given specifically to the Israelites to set them apart from pagan practices, suggesting different applications for contemporary Christians.
Broader Implications for Nigerian Christianity
This controversy highlights ongoing tensions within Nigerian Christianity regarding:
- The balance between cultural trends and traditional biblical interpretations
- The expectations placed on spiritual leaders regarding personal appearance
- How wisdom principles apply to matters not explicitly labeled as sin in scripture
- The influence of Western cultural practices on African Christian expression
The resurfacing of Selman's teaching during this particular controversy has sparked renewed discussions about body modifications, spiritual leadership, and the evolving nature of Christian practice in contemporary Nigeria.
