What is the biblical view of creativity, and how does it differ from worldly perspectives? Learn how Christians can use their creative gifts to reflect God's glory and positively impact the world.
Everywhere we turn, creativity surrounds us. From paintings in museums to social media to the design of everyday items like soda cans and cereal boxes, creativity can uniquely shape our world. But, amongst this unique world filled with imagination and endless possibilities, a fundamental question needs to be asked: As Christians, how should we navigate the world of creative expression? More importantly, what does the bible have to say about it?
Let’s look at several Bible verses about creativity to unpack this topic and reflect on the world of creativity from a biblical perspective.
What is Creativity?
Creativity is the ability to create new and original ideas and make something uniquely. It involves thinking differently, combining things in new ways, and creating something that has never existed before. You can see creativity in art, music, writing, problem-solving, and even in everyday tasks.
The term "creativity" comes from the Latin word "creare," which means "to create" or "to make." In essence, this term highlights the word “creativity” as the act of bringing something new into existence.
"Creativity is God's gift to us. What you do with your creativity is our gift back to God" - Julia Cameron
Creativity From a Biblical Perspective
God, the Ultimate Creator
The Bible opens with a simple statement revealing God as the Ultimate Creator of all things: Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." Jeremiah 10:12 echoes this by saying, “But God made the earth by His power; He founded the world by His wisdom and stretched out the heavens by His understanding.” This shows that creativity is a divine attribute of God showcasing His limitless imagination, majesty, and power.
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The creation story and scripture as a whole show us that:
God is the all-wise originator and a life-giving creator of all things. “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible… (Colossians 1:16-17)
God is a creator of order and beauty with the distinct ability to create everything from nothing. (John 1:3)
God brought the universe and everything in it into existence to magnify His glory. The creation of all these things serves as a testament to His glory, love, grace, mercy, wisdom, power, and goodness (Psalm 8:1; 19:1; 50:6; 89:5).
Humanity, Made in God’s Image
The Bible also reveals that we ( humanity) are made in God's image, which means we share in His creative nature. Genesis 1:27 states, "So God created mankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." Being made in the image of God means we inherit His creative nature.
Examples of Creatives in the Bible
Not surprisingly, the Bible is a treasure trove filled with diverse artistic expressions, including carving (1 Kings 6:18), dancing (Exodus 15:20), decorative paneling (2 Chronicles 3:5–7), embroidery (Exodus 26:1), engraving (Exodus 28:9–12), making music (2 Chronicles 5:12–13), ornamentation in gold (1 Kings 6:31–35) and ivory (Psalm 45:8), painting (Ezekiel 23:11–15), sculpting (Psalm 144:12), singing (Psalm 33:1–3), spinning (Exodus 35:25), weaving (Exodus 29:5), and writing & poetry (Psalm 45:1)."
The Bible is also full of stories of men and women who used their creative skills to honor God and serve others. Here are just a few examples:
Jubal: The first reference to a musician in the Bible in Genesis 4:21 was Jubal, the fourth generation from Adam through Cain, and is recorded as “the father of all those who play the lyre and pipe.”
Bezalel and Oholiab: God chose Bezalel and Oholiab to aid in constructing the Tabernacle, where His Spirit would dwell among the Israelites. Filled with God's Spirit, they were given the skills to craft wood, stone, metal, embroidery, and more, following God's detailed instructions (Exodus 31:1-6). They led and taught other craftsmen, completing the Tabernacle as God had specified, demonstrating that fine craftsmanship and artistic skill are gifts from God meant to glorify Him (Exodus 36:8-39:43).
Miriam: One of the first recorded worship leaders Miriam, Moses’ sister, led the Israelite women “with tambourines and dancing” as she sang, "Sing to the Lord for He is highly exalted. Both horse and driver He has hurled into the sea" (Exodus 15:21). This was also the first appearance of God’s people dancing as an act of worship. This joyful dance to the Lord, led by Miriam, followed Israel’s crossing of the Red Sea and celebrated Israel’s newfound freedom from slavery.
Moses: Moses has three songs recorded in the Bible: the song sung after the destruction of Pharaoh’s army (Exodus 15:1–18); a song recounting the faithfulness of God and the rebelliousness of Israel, which he sang before all the people just before his death (Deuteronomy 32:1–43); and a prayer recorded in Psalm 90.
Creativity as a Gift and Responsibility
As believers we need to remind ourselves that creativity is not just a talent; it is a precious gift from God. This gift comes with both opportunities and responsibilities that we should embrace thoughtfully.
A Divine Gift
Creativity is a reflection of God's nature within us. As Genesis 1:27 tells us, we are made in God's image, and part of this image includes the capacity for creativity. This divine gift allows us to mirror God’s creative acts by bringing beauty, innovation, and solutions into the world. Whether through art, music, writing, or problem-solving, our creative abilities are meant to be utilized for the glory of the Lord and to serve people.
Building Up the Body of Christ
In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul describes the various spiritual gifts given to believers. These gifts, including creative talents, are meant to build up the Body of Christ. When we use our creativity to serve others, we contribute to the health and growth of the church community. Our creative works can inspire, encourage, and uplift others, helping to strengthen their faith and relationship with God.
Working for God's Glory
Colossians 3:23 reminds us "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This means that all of our endeavors should be pursued with excellence and dedication, knowing that we are ultimately serving God. When we create with this mindset, our work becomes an act of worship, glorifying God and reflecting His greatness to the world.
Responsibility to Steward Well
With great gifts come great responsibilities. As stewards of the creative talents God has entrusted to us, we must use them wisely and purposefully. This involves continually developing our skills, seeking God's guidance in our creative projects, and being mindful of how our work impacts others. We are called to create with integrity, honesty, and a heart that seeks to honor God in all we do.
"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." - Romans 12:2
What Does This Mean for You? Practical Tips
So, how can we, as Christians, navigate our creative expression in a way that honors God? Here are a few practical tips:
Seek Inspiration from Scripture: Let the Bible be your primary source of inspiration. Its stories, parables, and teachings can spark creative ideas that align with God’s truth.
Pray for Guidance: Before starting any creative project, seek God’s guidance. Ask Him to direct your efforts and use your talents for His glory.
Create with Excellence: Colossians 3:23 reminds us to work heartily, as for the Lord. Strive for excellence in your creative pursuits, knowing that you are ultimately serving Him.
Share Your Work: Don’t hide your creativity. Share it with your community, church, and the world. Your work can inspire and encourage others in their faith journey.
Network with Fellow Creatives: Connecting with other Christian creatives can provide support, inspiration, and opportunities for collaboration.
In today’s culture, creativity is often seen as a remarkable human trait that enables innovation, artistic expression, and problem-solving. It drives advancements in technology, art, and culture, and is celebrated for its ability to generate new and original ideas. However, from a biblical perspective, creativity is even more profound. The Bible shows us that creativity is a gift from God to be used responsibly and purposefully. It is a means to reflect God's glory, appreciate the beauty of creation, and contribute positively to the world around us with God’s truth.
Whatever the medium—paint, pencil, textiles, marble, metal, drama, music, etc.—creatives of all kinds share a common mission and are a special and valuable part of God’s kingdom. It is our responsibility to use these gifts to make a positive difference in the world.
Join us for God Arts Week 2024!
If you’re looking for a place to network and grow in your creative journey, come to God Arts Week. It’s an excellent opportunity for creatives to connect, share their work, and be inspired. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of a vibrant community that honors God through creativity.
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