The Worship Arts In Biblical Perspective

The biblical doctrine of Creation has important implications for the use of the fine arts in worship, as does the doctrine of the Incarnation. The scriptural view of humankind as created in God's image, the concept of inspiration, and the biblical understanding of the covenant also contribute their perspective on the fine arts. The arts are uniquely capable of expressing the nonrational element in the worship experience. Renewal of Interest in the Arts Art, as a human activity, is a reflection of the activity of the Creator. Worship is a response to the Creator's revelation of himself. It is understandable that throughout history, and in all cultures and religious traditions, worship and the arts have been allied. The closeness of this alliance, however, has varied from era to era and community to community. In the centuries following the demise of the Roman Empire it was Christendom that supplied the framework holding European civilization together; during the Middle Ages, the art…