What is usually referred to as “abstract” is usually related to abstraction of shape. (Color, line, value and composition apply to both abstract as well as figurative works. But these are used more or less in the same way.) In preaching we often use symbols and metaphors to explain complex truths. In abstract paintings, we use shapes in the same way. So take a look at the shapes. Remember the title “beating swords into plowshares”. Can you see the hilt of a sword, an anvil-like shape and something that might relate to a plow or plowing the land? You can locate these in order from left to right.
Color can also be used as a metaphor. Red relates to blood, war and violence. Green and ochre relate to the earth and nature, to growth and in a sense to peace and prosperity. Where are these colors concentrated? Red is in the sword area and green in the nature/plow area.
So through shape and color we communicate the metaphor of war and peace. These, combined with composition and technique can make an interesting and pleasing image.
But our ultimate goal is not the work of art in itself. These are just a language. Now let’s see how we might use that language to prophesy.
These are uncertain, scary times. The primary reason for this is the violence that is spreading across the world. War and terrorism are merely tools. Politicians and ideologues more often than not are pawns rather than players. And in the eyes of many, Christians are the aggressors.
Somehow lost in this, is the fact that Jesus did not come as a triumphant Jewish Caesar. He is called the Prince of Peace and said “blessed are the peacemakers”.
Politics and armies have their legitimate place. How easy to win a war, how hard to win the peace! Peace, whether between nations, peoples or on an individual level can only come when we lay down our sword and surrender our will to the Master.
He then may place us in the fire and beat us into shape on his own unique anvil. But after that, when we are reshaped, he will take us and use us to plow the earth, preparing it for the seed. Like Paul, we can be transformed.
What was once a weapon of mass destruction, when transformed by Jesus, can become and instrument of grace and blessing. If you are truly concerned about war, why not lay down your sword and surrender to the Prince of Peace. If you live in fear of violence, you’ll find that His peace will flood your soul and dispel anxiety.
We study Greek, Hebrew and foreign languages like Japanese and Spanish so that we might effectively communicate the Gospel. But why not invest a little in learning the language of the arts as well?
Color can also be used as a metaphor. Red relates to blood, war and violence. Green and ochre relate to the earth and nature, to growth and in a sense to peace and prosperity. Where are these colors concentrated? Red is in the sword area and green in the nature/plow area.
So through shape and color we communicate the metaphor of war and peace. These, combined with composition and technique can make an interesting and pleasing image.
But our ultimate goal is not the work of art in itself. These are just a language. Now let’s see how we might use that language to prophesy.
These are uncertain, scary times. The primary reason for this is the violence that is spreading across the world. War and terrorism are merely tools. Politicians and ideologues more often than not are pawns rather than players. And in the eyes of many, Christians are the aggressors.
Somehow lost in this, is the fact that Jesus did not come as a triumphant Jewish Caesar. He is called the Prince of Peace and said “blessed are the peacemakers”.
Politics and armies have their legitimate place. How easy to win a war, how hard to win the peace! Peace, whether between nations, peoples or on an individual level can only come when we lay down our sword and surrender our will to the Master.
He then may place us in the fire and beat us into shape on his own unique anvil. But after that, when we are reshaped, he will take us and use us to plow the earth, preparing it for the seed. Like Paul, we can be transformed.
What was once a weapon of mass destruction, when transformed by Jesus, can become and instrument of grace and blessing. If you are truly concerned about war, why not lay down your sword and surrender to the Prince of Peace. If you live in fear of violence, you’ll find that His peace will flood your soul and dispel anxiety.
We study Greek, Hebrew and foreign languages like Japanese and Spanish so that we might effectively communicate the Gospel. But why not invest a little in learning the language of the arts as well?
