Contemporary Art & the Christian

Why are so many Christians and Christian leaders 'afraid' of contemporary art? I don't mean that that they are literally afraid of art; however, they are sometimes in fear of the affect or meaning of contemporary art. In my mind the creation of art is the pursuit of 'the beautiful.' This pursuit, I believe, is a gift from GOD.

There are many characteristics of GOD (love, grace, mercy, justice, etc.), but one important characteristic of the Almighty is His love of 'the beautiful.' All we have to do is look at the natural world to see that GOD is creative and cares about beauty. We see this design and beauty in the snow-capped mountains of Colorado, the palm trees swaying in the breeze coming off of the gulf of Mexico, or the gazelle running across the plains of Africa. As humanity is created (spiritually) in the image of GOD (imago Dei) it stands to reason that we are also endowed with a great capacity to create.

Our creativity takes on many forms: painting, music, poetry, architecture, landscaping, oratory, and many other art forms. This art is simply the way human creativity manifests itself. And in the church art has always been an important part of our worship of GOD (from early Roman art, Renaissance art, Modern art, to contemporary art). Throughout all of church history art has been used to uplift us, express the many facets of the human condition, AND as part of our worship of Almighty GOD and our recognition of GOD's transcendence. Mere words or tangible works of art can never adequately express the greatness of the Almighty; however, as flawed mortals we use those tools as best we can to express our thoughts and feelings about GOD.

Now, as it is with any human endeavor, often times these art forms are used for purposes that do not uplift us. Sometimes they are used for destructive purposes or as expressions of defilement of the image of GOD. That is very prevalent in contemporary art; however, this does not mean that, as Jesus followers, we should shun art in general. Simply because some unbelievers choose to use art to degrade the human condition; we should not deny the value of art to the human condition. Art is given to us by GOD Himself as a gift to express ourselves and with which we can celebrate 'beauty.'

Therefore, I say, let us not throw the baby out with the bath water. Let us not discount the value of art in our lives simply because some have used art forms in destructive ways. Art is a gift. Art is a necessary form of our expression. Art can be constructive. Instead of discounting contemporary art, let us reclaim all art forms for the cause of the gospel of Jesus. Let us show the world around us what art can be by using art to manifest our creativity and show the world what is beautiful from a Christian point of view. Let us create art that brings glory and honor to our LORD Jesus and inspiration to the world. Let us allow love, joy, peace, and hope come through the art that we create.