In the beginning God. . .

Greetings,

After defining the purpose of this monologue in my earlier posting I want to present some ideas.

The first concept is that we as creatures are uniquely made in the image of God. By this I mean that we are a reflection of the creator in our essence and purpose. Do I mean that we are divine? Well recent human history could answer that, but for the sake of clarity I will say no.

Being made in God's image especially, as artists, buts us in a unique position. All humankind has been charged to some extent with the responsibility to best represent their Creator but the creative ones among us have a extra special challenge. You see we traffic in ideas. We can make people feel and think in ways they may not even be aware of. The arts touch us in both primal and profound ways all in the same instance. The only other vocation that has such multi-tiered influence is teaching or parenting.

So what is the artist to do? Take on aspects of the Divine and be filled with pride? Hide away in the shadows afraid to weld such awesome influence? Foolishly follow every personal whim and fancy that comes to mind like some lust struck Pandora?

Non of the above. No, the artist must soberly ,albeit freely, come to terms with their Creator on a personal level laying down their many gifts and talents at the feet of the Gift-Giver and pray, yes pray, for wisdom and mercy. (I Peter 4:7-10)

That is the challenge.

Why we do what we do

Wanting to discuss the arts and faith in an open forum is an idea that has been stirring in my heart for quite some time.
I want the forum to be open to honest discussion but it must have limits to allow for a healthy wholesome hashing out of ideas.
Some people may think it somewhat limiting to have to discuss things within a certain philosophical context, ie a historical christian context.
I would disagree with this closed idea. First of all we all speak from a certain social context, however subconscious.
I am committed to being honest about my biases. I am a christian and I have created this forum for the discussion of the impact and influence of the arts and faith. Yes, we are interested in developing disciples. Yes we care about eternity and Yes we are committed to a Christ alone theology and world view.