Thursday, November 16, 2006
9:47 AM
What can do, what cannot do?Hiyee Folks!
Our faith is not one of "can-do" and "cannot-do".
The Bible is God's Word mainly about His love for us, yet containing wisdom of what make life complete and good for ourselves and others, and most importantly reflecting His GLORY.
So when we look at TATOO last sat.. it is but one example of life practices...
pls apply the principles learnt on other areas of your lives. We attempt to do that on HAIR DYING, EAR PIERCING during the session.
Life Principles for Christians who aspire to honor God and His Word:I. Check if the practice is named directly in the Biblee.g. Leviticus 19:28 states "Do not... put tatoo marks on yourself, I am the LORD."
II.However, ALWAYS study the context of the verse. It is clear verse 26-31 states practices of pagan worship. Thus, even practice like shaving sideburns is banned (Lev 19:27). Therefore, it is clear the ban applies specifically to religious context.
In the case of EAR PIERCING, it appears that the Bible refers to it positively or neutrally. (Proverb 25:12; Exodus 21:26)
III. Yet, there may be other relevant Bible principles we should consider in order to ensure our decisions and actions honor God's Word. In the cases of TATOOING, HAIR DYING, EAR PIERCING, we look if they challenge the followings:
1. Honoring Parents Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"-which is the first commandment with a promise- (Ephesians 6:1-3)
2. Culturally Stumbling So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God—
even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. (1 Corinthians 10:31-33)
3. Medical RepercussionDo you not know that your body is a temple 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 body. (1 Cor 6:19-20)
Coupled with worldly wisdom aka sufficient knowledge of TATOO, HAIR DYE and EAR PIERCING (which the speaker shared much on)... you are on your way to be an Attractive, also Smart and Healthy, Young Men and Women of God!
So folks... read the Bible regularly... in order it becomes instinctive for us to know what is God-honoring, Men-edifying and Best for Ourselves!
ta-ta!
azds.
Final But Very Important Note: Biblical Beauty Guidelines at 1 Peter 3:3-7 states:
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment...Instead,
(for women) it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight... (aka not quarrelsome; submissive spirit)
(for men) be considerate...treat them with respect... (aka understanding heart towards women!)