"Some say there is no place for art or scuplting or painting in the Christian life. They cite two prohibitions in the Second Commandment. Number one, we are not to make images that portray God in any form. Number two, we are not to make any pictures or images if our attention is to worship those images or worship God through them. But the artistry in the tabernacle/temple by such craftsman as Bezalel and Oholiab (see Exodus 35:30 - 36:4) demonstrates ornamentation and decoration in life is okay, even in places of worship. We don't have to be as plain as possible."

"What is wrong is to infuse objects or ornamentations with spiritual efficacy as if these artifacts brought us closer to God, reprented God, or established our communion with God." Kevin DeYoung. The Good News We Almost Forgot. 167.

 

Question 96: What is God's will for us in the Second Commandment?

Answer: That we in no way make any image of God nor worship Him in any other way other than He has commanded in His Word.

 

Question 97: May we then not make any image at all?

Answer: God can not and may not be visibly portrayed in any way. Although creatures may be portrayed, yet God forbides making or having such images if one's intention is to worship them or to serve God through them.  

 

Question 98: But may not images be permitted in the churches as teaching aids for the unlearned?

Answer: No, we shouldn't try to be wiser than God. He wants His people instructed by the living preaching of His Word - not by idols that cannot even talk. 

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