Dr Abel Damina Says Tattoos and Body Enhancements Are Not a Sin but a Personal Choice

Prominent Nigerian preacher and Bible teacher Dr. Abel Damina has sparked nationwide discussion with a recent sermon that challenges long-held views on tattoos, piercings, and body enhancements within the Christian community.

Speaking during a Sunday service at Power City International, the respected theologian clarified that such practices are not inherently sinful. He explained that the New Testament places greater emphasis on faith and inner transformation than on physical appearance.

“The New Testament does not make tattoos or body enhancements a sin issue,” Dr. Damina said. “What you do with your body is a personal choice. What matters is the state of your heart and your walk with God.”

His remarks have quickly become one of the most talked-about religious topics on Nigerian social media this week, drawing praise from some believers and criticism from others.

A Fresh Perspective on an Old Debate

The question of whether tattoos and body modifications are compatible with Christian faith has divided opinions for decades. Many conservative voices reference Leviticus 19:28, where ancient Israelites were instructed not to make “cuttings in the flesh” or “marks” on their bodies. Others argue that those Old Testament laws addressed specific cultural and pagan practices that do not apply to followers of Christ today.

Dr. Damina, known for his in-depth teaching on grace and New Covenant theology, urged Christians to study Scripture in context before drawing conclusions. He emphasized that external expressions—such as clothing, hairstyles, or tattoos—do not determine spiritual standing before God.

“When the church focuses on outward things, we lose sight of our core mission, which is to share the love and message of Christ,” he explained.

According to him, judgment based on appearance contradicts the gospel of grace. Instead, believers should pursue spiritual maturity, compassion, and understanding—qualities that reflect Christ more than any physical standard.

Why the Message Resonates with Young Christians

Dr. Damina’s comments arrive at a time when many young Nigerians are exploring new forms of self-expression while remaining rooted in faith. Tattoos, piercings, and cosmetic enhancements are increasingly common among youth, including those active in church leadership and worship teams.

For some, his teaching validates their belief that Christianity is about the heart, not external conformity. Others see it as a much-needed correction to years of fear-based preaching that equated personal style with rebellion or sin.

Religious analysts note that Dr. Damina’s openness reflects a broader shift among modern pastors who emphasize freedom in Christ and contextual reading of the Bible. This approach appeals to younger believers seeking authentic, inclusive faith communities that welcome rather than shame personal differences.

Online Reactions: Divided but Engaged

Clips from the sermon quickly circulated on YouTube, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), sparking thousands of comments and debates. Many praised Dr. Damina’s tone and scriptural reasoning, calling his teaching a “breath of fresh air.”

One user wrote:

“Finally, a pastor teaching freedom in Christ and not bondage. Thank you, Dr. Damina, for reminding us that salvation is about grace, not appearances.”

Another listener added, “This is the kind of balance the church needs. People should know God loves them regardless of tattoos or piercings.”

Still, not everyone agreed. Some conservative Christians expressed concern that such messages might weaken biblical standards of modesty. A commenter on X cautioned,

“Grace does not mean anything goes. The body is the temple of God; we must treat it with respect and holiness.”

The online discussion has since spread beyond Nigeria, attracting engagement from believers in Ghana, Kenya, and the United States, showing how relevant the topic remains in global Christian circles.

Context, Conviction, and the Gospel of Grace

For Dr. Damina, the heart of the issue lies in interpretation and intent. He reminded his congregation that Christianity is founded on faith in Christ, not adherence to external rules. While personal convictions about tattoos or piercings may differ, those convictions should never become grounds for condemnation.

His teaching echoes Apostle Paul’s message in Romans 14, where believers are encouraged not to judge one another over disputable matters but to pursue righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.

By urging Christians to focus on inner transformation, Dr. Damina hopes to redirect attention toward compassion, empathy, and service—the hallmarks of true discipleship.

“The gospel is not behavior modification,” he said during the sermon. “It is life transformation through the knowledge of Christ.”

Reactions from Church Circles

Several pastors and theologians have weighed in on Dr. Damina’s remarks. Some praised his courage to address a controversial issue with biblical depth, while others called for further theological dialogue rather than quick conclusions.

A Lagos-based youth pastor told ChurchPlus News that the message challenges leaders to revisit how they engage young believers. “We must separate cultural preferences from spiritual truths,” he said. “Our calling is to help people grow in grace, not guilt.”

Others, however, fear that overly liberal interpretations may open the door to moral laxity if not balanced with clear teaching on holiness and stewardship of the body.

A Call for Unity and Understanding

Regardless of where one stands, Dr. Damina’s sermon has reignited meaningful discussion about how Christians interpret Scripture in modern times. His reminder that “God looks at the heart, not the skin” continues to resonate with audiences across denominations.

The conversation highlights an important truth: faith is deeply personal, and believers must learn to disagree without division. As churches navigate generational and cultural shifts, messages like this one invite honest reflection on what truly defines Christian character.

In the end, Dr. Damina’s words call the body of Christ back to its central focus—grace, love, and understanding—qualities that transcend outward appearance and reflect the heart of the gospel itself.