Buku A Redemptive Theology of Art – David A.Covington

A Redemptive Theology of Art develops  a biblical, systematic, and practical theology of aesthetics. It begins  with the roots and ontology of aesthetics (vs. “art”) and the  architecture and narrative of affection and passion, their woes and  their glory.

Those who would search the Bible find  little support for “art” as commonly conceived in the West. The language  of aesthetics, applied to the maker’s intentions, the qualities of the  work, and the responses of the audience, better addresses the questions  of beauty, and better suits the discussion of human actions, beliefs,  and culture than the language of art does. The Bible yields more  consistent and helpful answers to questions about the broader category  of aesthetics than it does to questions about art; leading in turn to  better questions and a more practical and theological appreciation of  human affections, beauty, and delight, and the many paths by which  people, including Christians, pursue them.

Using the  categories and definitions from Scripture, Covington gives hope and help  not only for those who labor in the arts, but for everyone who cares  about the passions that motivate us. We were made for God’s delight,  and, though sin and bondage plague our passions, God can shape our fun,  feelings, desires, affections and aversions. Feelings are neither  objective nor subjective; they are redeemable. Borrowing key ideas from  other Christian writers on the arts or aesthetics, Covington explores  the connection between orthodox Protestant theology and a responsible,  respectful treatment of arts, artists, and all aesthetic fields of human  work and speech.