Pagan Influences in Christian Art and Doctrine

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Christian art often had pagan influences mixed in with the spiritual content of the artwork. It was not always a matter of resisting all influence from the outside world, but sometimes incorporating those influences. Not just in artwork, but sometimes pagan ideas influenced Christian theology too. Since theology is practiced by humans and art is created by human hands, I think it is inevitable that the prominent things that surround the creator could very likely have an unintended influence. In my opinion, it is important to point out that just because something is influenced by familiar things in the world the meaning behind it is not stolen away.

Some advantages to pagan culture having some influence in Christian art and theology would be that people outside the Christian faith could relate to the artwork or new ways of thinking. It would not be so foreign to those who were not Christians. If there was a more pagan element to a piece of art, for instance, a person could see the pagan aspect to it and perhaps realize the other implications being portrayed. Another way this might be a good thing is that the art or doctrine does not completely deny where people have been but instead incorporates that aspect of their life. This could be an important way to make Christian art and doctrine relatable while still pointing to a new way of living and a new faith.

Some disadvantages could be inconsistency. If people expect Christianity to be void of any pagan imagery or ideas, this could lead to confusion. Also, if the art or doctrine is to be set apart from other religions and gods, then it could possibly raise questions and confusion.

Although there seems to be some pagan influence in Christian art and doctrine, there have been some beautiful pieces of art created to display the Christian faith. Whether through pagan influence or not, the message of the Gospel is often displayed in an unmistakable fashion that is clear and powerful.

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