Eleanor,

I am sure there are some salient articles online which would guide you in thinking this matter through. But let me just say that even as you have acknowledged that the Reformed churches, historically, have been very much opposed to "visual arts" used for the purpose of enhancing worship either in educating the laity or obviously in aiding in worship. Some will doubtless say that their resistance and rejection of such things was simply their reaction against Rome. And surely, that is probably true; but not "simply" so. One of the major reasons for their view was due to their high view of Scripture and the centrality and sufficiency of the Word of God and the preaching thereof as the means by which God communicates with His people and which leads to "worship in spirit and truth." It is the Church's responsibility to teach (educate) believers from Scripture as to the proper way to worship God according to His revealed will in the Bible. (cf. 2Tim 3:16, 17) As you well know, the term for this subject is the "Regulative Principle of Worship". <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

May I suggest the following for your consideration:

1. The Authority of Scripture, by Paul Cook

2. Francis Schaeffer's excellent series: "How Shall We Then Live?" (book or video/DVD)

In His grace,

Last edited by CovenantInBlood; Wed Aug 27, 2008 12:42 PM.