Art and the Bible is a collection of two essays written by Francis Schaeffer about the relationship between art and religion. Throughout history, art and religion have often been kept apart, with many religious people feeling that their interest in creative pursuits somehow undermines or compromises their religious practice. In this text, Schaeffer argues that creativity is not only accepted in the bible but is actively encouraged, so long as it is done with religious intent.
Art in the Bible
The first essay in this text is called "Art in the Bible," in which Schaeffer uses biblical passages in order to argue for the importance of art. He invites Christian people to open themselves to the idea of art and to use art to celebrate the beauty of the world and God's creation. In this essay, he uses examples from the bible in order to show the prevalence and appreciation of art in this text.
Some Perspectives on Art
In his second essay "Some Perspectives on Art," the ideas of the first essay are developed. He offers a Christian perspective on art, showing how art forms that are not explicitly religious can still glorify God and celebrate religion. He invites religious people to reframe their ideas of art, in order to see creative pursuits as a celebration of religion.
