Gospel artiste Mike Abdul has reacted to the controversy surrounding Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo’s decision to get a tattoo.
Okonkwo is the lead pastor of David Christian Centre in Lagos and a well known relationship coach. He recently shared images showing a tattoo on his arm, which drew criticism from some Christians online and sparked debate about whether it was appropriate for a pastor to have body art.
Responding to the backlash, Okonkwo said there was no biblical basis for condemning Christians who choose to have tattoos. He stated that faith should be judged by character and obedience to Christ’s teachings rather than outward appearance. He also explained that the tattoo was not meant to challenge Christian values or follow trends, but was a personal decision which he believes can be used to spread the gospel.
He added that many objections to tattoos within the church are influenced by personal preferences, church policies or subjective interpretations, rather than clear biblical instructions.
Reacting to the debate in an Instagram post, Mike Abdul said tattoos do not dishonour the body. He wrote, “Tattoos + Tattoos were used for identity, memory, status, covenant, and storytelling across ancient cultures, nothing more. Tattoos don’t dishonour 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.”
While supporters say the tattoo has encouraged conversations about faith and personal expression, critics continue to argue that religious leaders should uphold traditional interpretations of scripture.
