How Christians Have Appropriated The Arts

Christians have responded to various art forms in many ways over the centuries. Four typical responses are described in this article. These approaches to art in general necessarily influence how the Christian community approaches the visual arts in worship. From the very beginning God's people practiced the arts. Adam composed the first poem in the world, about Eve: Bone of my bone, Flesh of my flesh, She shall be called wo-man, For she was won-from man. (Gen. 2:23) Aaron's sister Miriam choreographed a dance to celebrate Israel's deliverance from the pursuing Egyptians (Exod. 15:20). God gave Moses blueprints for the tabernacle's architecture and the ark with its sculptured angels made of gold and decorated candlesticks (Exod. 25:9-40). The Lord poured out specially the Holy Spirit upon silversmiths Bezalel and Oholiab so they could practice their arts with special skill (Exod. 31:1-11). David wrote many songs and hymns for use in worship (Psalms). Solomon's artisans carve…