Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo defends his Bible-inspired tattoo amid backlash from fellow ministers and critics

Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo, founder of the David Christian Centre, has addressed criticism from fellow ministers over his decision to get a Bible-inspired tattoo, describing some comments as “insulting” and rooted in religious bias.

Also read: Pere Egbi defends Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo tattoo

Okonkwo sparked debate after sharing a video of himself receiving a tattoo of John 3:16 in Roman numerals, “III: XVI,” on his body.

The pastor claimed that only a small number of ministers appreciated the spiritual reasoning behind his decision, while others reacted without understanding.

“On my tattoo issue, only one or two ministers were grounded and sound enough to understand it. Most of them are just religious people,” Okonkwo said, emphasising his frustration with those who questioned the necessity and timing of the tattoo.

“They said, ‘Tattoo is not a sin, but is it expedient? Why did you post it? Why must you do it?’ That is stupid talk, and I am insulted,” he added, insisting that spiritual authority and insight vary among ministers and that not everyone is qualified to critique such personal expressions.

Okonkwo referenced prominent Christian figures with tattoos to defend his choice, highlighting Joyce Meyer and Max Lucado as examples of leaders who made similar decisions at different stages of life.

“Am I higher than Joyce Meyer? She had a tattoo at eight years old. Am I higher than Max Lucado? He got his tattoo at 70,” he said, framing his action as both personal and biblically inspired.

Also read: Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo defends Tattoo, dismisses criticism

The pastor’s comments come amid a wider discussion in Nigeria about personal expression, religious norms, and the role of modern Christian leaders in interpreting scripture for contemporary life.