Ok so I want to start a weekend topic dealing with subject matters that are controversial. Yep stuff you’re not gonna like. Or at least will have a strong opinion about. Actually, I want this to be a lively debate about what you think, and more importantly, why you think what you do.
So lets me lay a groundwork. When doing a devotional reading I noticed that God in the book of Genesis made two types of tree. Those that were good for food, and those that were pleasing to the eye.
Gen 2:9 KJV
And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; (italics mine)
Now this is interesting to me. Because why not just make trees that were functional. In other words who cares about trees that look good? Well based on this scripture apparently God does. Beauty has a function all its own. Apparently, food alone is not sufficient for man’s existence. Beauty is also important. It also serves a function in creation.
So this leads to my discussions. Art serves no purpose right? I don’t think its a stretch to say that art in all its forms is an extension of this ‘beauty’ that God deems important.
Art doesn’t feed you, it won’t keep you warm, it won’t satisfy mans need for sexual gratification. What purpose then does art serve? The same purpose as the trees of beauty apparently. Somehow, beauty is important to God, and he thought it important to man. Is art to the inner man what food is to the outer man?
So here are my questions.
Does all art have to be Christian themed?
Does all music have to Christian themed?
Does all writing have to Christian themed?
Literature, music, and visual arts can all be classified under the category of ‘art’.
Are Christians limited to listening to music, literature, and visual works of art that are not Christ centric?
Think about it? In my community we talk about secular music, and Christian (gospel music) We really look down on people who listen to something other than gospel. Why?
Is this standard applicable to literature? Visual art?
Why?
So give me your comments. I’m curious (especially from believers) what you thoughts are. But hey non-Christians feel free to chime in as well!
Do we Christians have issues with art that is none Christ centric? If so why?
Remember be respectful! I’m looking forward to hearing your views!