Essay Questions

Why does Schaeffer agree with Francis Bacon?

Schaeffer states that although he doesn't agree with Francis Bacon about many things, they do agree about the importance of art in a person's life. For example, Schaeffer tells us that the following quote is one he personally agrees with:

"Man by the Fall fell at the same time from his state of innocence and from his dominion over nature. Both of these losses, however, can even in this life be at some point repaired; the former by religion and faith, the latter by the arts and sciences."

How does Schaeffer distinguish between different forms of art?

In his essay "Art in the Bible," Schaeffer introduces his argument by distinguishing between different forms of art. He argues that there are certain forms of art, such as the psalms and modern hymns, are explicitly and clearly religious. However, there are other forms of art whose place within religion seems more dubious, such as "sculpture or drama."

How does Schaeffer support his arguments?

Schaeffer's arguments in this text are not mere conjecture and theory. Instead, Schaeffer's arguments are supported by detailed references to biblical passages, providing specific examples of where the bible has advocated artistic expression. For example, Schaeffer considers areas of the bible where God has appreciated the beauty of the world and has shown a clear interest in the creation of beautiful things.