This week, the blog is sponsored by the Christian Theology Handbook, the newest volume in the Holman Handbook Series. Andy McLean, Director of Bibles & Reference at Lifeway, describes the elements of beauty and design as an arrow that points to the glory of God in this beloved series.
The Bible has a lot to say about beauty and how beauty might serve as a means
leading to the praise and worship of God. In fact, just looking at the Old Testament
narratives involving the construction of the tabernacle and the temple, we come to
realize that there is a lot of specificity and detail surrounding their craftsmanship. The detail of these designs and the level of craftsmanship involved were not merely meant to create a place that instructs God’s people—those designs and the beautiful creations that resulted were also meant to point the congregation to God’s glory. When the Lord told Moses, “Make holy garments for your brother Aaron,” he said to make these “for glory and beauty” (Exod 28:2). In other words, these craftsmen and artisans of the Old Testament were instructed to complete their tasks for the combined effect of both glory and beauty.
Unfortunately, too often the notion of beauty is overlooked in Christian culture. However, it is good to be reminded that the medium should always be commensurate with the message. Since Christians have the most beautiful message, the one found in the pages of Scripture, it is incumbent upon us to create beautiful mediums that relay that message in hopes that they also point others to the glory of God.
The Christian Theology Handbook seeks to do just that in a creative and informative
way. Intended to be used as a stand-alone reference work and/or companion to other
systematic theology books, the Christian Theology Handbook focuses on presenting
important theological doctrines and concepts in a visually compelling way. Its
presentation through intentional design and infographics helps deepen one’s
understanding of basic evangelical Christian theology, rooted firmly in the Nicene
Creed, including the following:
- Essential Christian doctrines borne out of each section of the Nicene Creed
- Charts and tables
- Infographics about key doctrines and theological views
- Key quotes from voices of the church
The Christian Theology Handbook is intended to enhance your understanding and
application of evangelical Christian theology and ultimately point you to “God’s glory in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Cor 4:6).
Excerpt from the Letter from the Publisher in the Christian Theology Handbook.
Win 1 free copy of each of the Old Testament Handbook, New Testament Handbook, Church History Handbook, and NEW Christian Theology Handbook. Open to U.S. residents only. One winner will be selected.
