Architecture reflecting theology ...

[MoreCoffee]

Architecture reflecting theology used to be part of building and decorating a church. Perhaps some church buildings still reflect the theology of those who built it. Below is a rose window from a church. It reflects Christian theology.

Who is at the centre?

What does it mean to include the things around the centre?

Is your theology like the window?


Note: the full size image is here https://enthusiastical.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/dsc03060a.jpg

 

[TurtleHare]

Stained glass windows and art are the visual gospel we get to reflect on throughout the service. Before the bible got printed this was a way for people to see and learn but today aren't people so worried about idols that they can't understand how this benefits us?

I know that orthodox churches catch a lot of flack for their icons yet they show appreciation for the Lord so why is that a bad thing?

 

[psalms 91]

objects are fine it is only when we lift them to a state of worship that they become wrong

 

[pinacled]

Thank you for sharing this beautiful art piece. It is apparent the artist did their homework.

 

[Ruth]

Yes, I agree it's beautiful.

 

[MoreCoffee]

It is beautiful and that matters but the main point of the rose window is to teach the faithful that all creation is dependent on God and that God alone depends on nothing but himself. The existence of every created thing depends on God and every created thing exists because God causes it to exist. Rose windows (like the one in the picture) teach about the nature of created things and about the uncreated God. They are a lesson in art ... I sometimes wonder how famous atheist advocates can think that some proof of God's existence is necessary before any demand can be made on them to acknowledge God, repent of their sins, and ask for mercy in Christ? But I think I know what answer they would give ... "extraordinary claims need extraordinary evidence". Do you think that is a valid response?

 

[Josiah]

Art can reflect faith. Art can convey biblical accounts and truths.

 

[visionary]

Picture says a thousand words.

 

[MoreCoffee]

Picture says a thousand words.

Probably more than 1,000

 

[psalms 91]

or it is so beuatifulthat it brings you to silence

 

[MoreCoffee]

or it is so beautiful that it brings you to silence

I think that is part of it. When you see something very beautiful it is hard not to pause and look at it. But the rose windows of the middle ages are so theologically dense and so profound that modern folk like us ought to pause to think about our heritage in the Christian faith.