Article February 8, 1908 Issue

EARLY CHRISTIAN ART

ROSALIND C. PRATT

In view of the unique position our text-book occupies in the world's religious literature, regarding the subject of sin, disease, and death, and the elimination of these foes of health and happiness from consciousness, the following facts may be of interest to the Field. In the catacombs of Rome there are no emblems, signs, or symbols for evil spirits, demons, or death, and one only for temptation, viz., the serpent. Although there were in the catacombs quite a number of emblems and symbols, they all expressed the fact that time, thought, and energy had been devoted to the study of the spiritual life and its joys, also to the final victory and crown of rejoicing. The significance of this lies in the fact that Church historians have recognized in the pictured forms of Christian art as portrayed in the catacombs, the most authentic records of the customs, religious life, hope, and faith of the earliest disciples of the Christian era,—those most directly in touch with the teachings and influence of our Lord. That the trials attending their earthly pilgrimage had little place in their thought is evidenced by the further proof that though living in the midst of danger and persecution, this "submerged tenth" of imperial Rome never depicted scenes of violence, suffering, or persecution, not even the crucifixion of Christ Jesus.

It is a matter of history that the Church was never so cheerful, calm, and brave as when, silently, tranquilly, in the midst of turmoil, and even living below the ground, she was gathering strength and understanding to conquer the world. It was not until the confusion of thought of later centuries that the Church found a supposed need for demons and kindred spirits, of which pagan idolatry, heathen mythology, and the false concepts of Jewish theology were able to furnish a generous supply. To any who even in a slight degree study the development of Christian art, and follow the outline of Church history, the wonder, beauty, and ever unfolding joy of the revealed Word of Truth in this age is a matter for daily praise to God, and of gratitude to our revered Leader, who has taken the things of God and ministered them. We can well afford to wait calmly, silently, joyfully upon God," and, as she has bidden us, follow her only as she follows Christ.

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