The Old Testament Through 100 Masterpieces Of Art

"Accompanying each painting [illustrated in the volume] is a concise retelling of the Old Testament story that inspired the work. Many of the images are also supported by a brief commentary on how the episode is traditionally depicted, offering an introduction to the understanding and interpretation of biblical art"--Jacket.

"Accompanying each painting [illustrated in the volume] is a concise retelling of the New Testament story that inspired the work. Many of the images are also supported by a brief commentary on how the episode is traditionally depicted, offering an introduction to the understanding and interpretation of biblical art"--Jacket.

This book explores the revelation of God’s love in the mystery of the covenant, and shows how this potent theological concept has inspired artists through the ages to reflect on the nature of divine interaction with mankind. It traces the development of the covenantal relationship between God and the Jewish people as given in the Hebrew Scriptures, and examines the Christian concept of the New Covenant, portrayed by Gospel writers and those of the early Church in the New Testament. Alongside this, the book matches a variety of artistic work in which these texts are made visible. The reference to over 300 works of art is a mere sample, and will inspire readers to research this hugely rich resource both for their own interest and for use in teaching about the Christian faith and its important Jewish roots. Learning in the contemporary world often lifts the emphasis from mere words to illustration, and this book shows clearly that, throughout history, the Christian world has sought to use art to aid understanding of biblical texts. Art continues to be used hand-in-hand with the Scriptures in present-day classrooms, as well as in group and individual study. This volume provides a basis for the exploration of God’s love in his covenantal relationship with the People of God, ancient and modern, and will serve to inspire an investigation of the huge range of artistic interpretation which is available through twenty-first century technology.

This book provides intelligent enrichment for encounters with the Old Testament, the first part of the Christian Bible. There are chapters on its five main sections: the Pentateuch, the Historical Books, Poetry and Wisdom, the Prophetic Books, and the Apocrypha/Deutero-Canon. Each of the core chapters covers three areas: an introduction to the general significance of each section in its ancient context; a survey of major ways these sacred texts have been interpreted in the global history of Christianity; and suggestions for how its texts apply to Christian ministry and mission today. These areas are often treated separately by scholars, but this book usefully offers an integrated overview of these areas that will inform and inspire, and serve the interests and needs of students and general readers alike.

Whoever starts on a Journey should be prepared for surprises! The Old Testament offers a wealth of wonderful stories. The stories talk about people who are on a quest for God with all their heart and soul. About skeptics, unhappy people, and enthusiasts. About people just like you and me. About life as it is. With all its worries, anxieties, and unfairness. But also about God who makes His face shine upon us. Who does not abandon us. We should not deprive our children of this hope. If we read these stories with them, we can awaken their longing for God. We may perhaps also arouse their curiosity. And touch their heart and move their mind with pictures from two thousand years of art. Thus igniting a life-long journey in search of God. With easy-to-understand picture explanations for children and textual commentaries for adults. A read-aloud book for children ages 5 and up, a book to be read on one’s own for children ages 8 and up, and a book to lose yourself in for adults of all ages.

In an expressivist culture, effective engagement must acknowledge teenagers’ freedom to choose their own spiritual path. Yet, in an evangelical theology, faithful formation must hold on to biblical authority. As we seek to engage young people with the Bible, key questions need to be explored. Such questions include: how can pedagogical freedom be affirmed without undermining theological authority; and how can authority be asserted without diminishing personal freedom? This study explores a freedom–authority dialectic in theological dialogue with the educational philosophy of Maxine Greene. Greene’s reflection on the arts and the imagination are brought into conversation with insights from Charles Taylor, Garret Green, and Nicholas Wolterstorff. As a work of practical theology, the book concludes with a framework to shape the purpose, content, and values for Bible engagement in contemporary youth ministry.

An examination of the relationship between art and the Holy Scriptures.