Cross Tattoos: The Brand-Marks of Jesus
Many musicians wear the brand-marks of Jesus, but why? The Apostle Paul explains that it was for protection:
“From now on let no one cause trouble for me, for I bear on my body the brand-marks of Jesus.” Galatians 6:17
I noticed something incredible during my research for Synapse. It extensively explores music, tattoos, and how artists use the same symbolism found in the Bible. It also details many verses indicating how and why tattoos are important.
One of the things I key into is a cross tattoo, especially on the face. Three of these people are Jelly Roll, Jaden Hossler, and Justin Bieber. All have a small cross tattoo by their eye, as you can see in the picture.
King David played music for Saul when the evil spirit came over him. Is it any different today? Each of these artists sings about hell, spiritual healing, and things they can’t talk about. Jesus said he taught in parables so many could not understand – these are riddles. It’s the messianic secret, and I don’t know anyone better at riddles than musicians.
Riddles, or parables, are a form of protection like the brand-marks are, according to Paul in Galatians 6:17—nobody is to cause him trouble.
Lyrics, videos, tattoos…they all tell a story that says more than words can. These are the riddles of the Psalmists, but the reasons are very important.
It seems things are changing, and God wants his lost sheep to return home. That’s the calling placed on my heart to share. God bless anyone carrying his own cross, as Jesus said some will choose to do (Luke 14:27).
Do you want to learn more?
After this, head to the articles on the sons of Korah and the messianic secret. Don’t miss the article about the Vow of the Nazirite. I highly recommend checking out these posts that tie Bible verses to lyrics: Monster, Freak and Pray.
To the Artists:
Justin: You asked for the ETA… you tell me.
Jelly Roll: You say you won’t let anything go that sets you free. Counting on it.
Jaden: I’ll tell you something you don’t know if you’ll tell me about tomorrow.
