The Reward of a Christian Artist

The Reward of a Christian Artist

by Richard Rogers

If you have been in the art world for longer than a day, then you have probably noticed the art community can be quite political.  Because of that, it tends to be excluding to those of us who don't share the mainstream-art-world-view.  The artist of faith, the creative Christian, is often dismissed, discounted, or demeaned in art circles.  Don't get me wrong, most artists do happen to be very nice people, but there are those few artists, curators, and critics who will hate you simply because of your faith.   I have heard and read the most vile things about Christian Artists, things I would never repeat.

It is unfortunate, but it's also expected.  The Bible does tell us that we will be hated because we follow Jesus, (John 15:18,19.)  This is something we know, and do expect, and we handle these rejections gracefully.  Yet at times it does become discouraging, especially when it becomes personal or hinders our career.  And so, we all have that small little part of us that tells us to “downplay” our faith.  Have you heard that voice?  But it is very important that we never allow that to happen. 

We have a calling, artists like you and me, we have been called by God to proclaim His truth through our talent.   We should boldly take on this task, (Ephesians 6:19-20.)  The one thing that most Contemporary Christian art pieces have in common is the use of bold, vibrant, color.  This is because God is inspiring the work, and He is wanting us to be bold.  He wants us to be bold even while we face rejection, ridicule, or resentment.  The reason we need to be bold is because there is so much at stake.

When you create artwork for Christ, you are sending out the Word of God in visual form.  The Word of God is never sent out without accomplishing its purpose, (Isaiah 55:10-11.)  God, working through your artwork, may touch the lives of countless people.  He may use your art to bring someone to that place where they desire Him, or encourage someone who may be losing faith, or maybe just give that bit of confirmation to someone who needs it.  Your reward for for this diligent work will be seen in heaven, you will meet the people who met God because of your art.  You will see how your talent was all a part of God's perfect plan.  So you can imagine the consequences if we allow the hatred from this world to discourage us.  What will happen if our boldness is diminished?  

So when you encounter hateful people in the art world, and you will, don't let it get you down – take it as a sign that you are doing exactly what you are supposed to do.  

"Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you, and revile you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of Man’s sake. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy!  For indeed your reward is great in heaven..."  Luke 6:22-23. NKJV

please check out Richards website here: http://www.theclovenflame.com