The Story of Redemption

The panels displayed on the stage represent the overarching story of the Bible. The first panel, reading left to right, portrays God’s creation. The second depicts humanity’s break with God and our descent into darkness and decay, tempered by the coming of the gracious law of God (defined by the five strands of blue). The third panel tells of the advent of Christ and his saving work of redemption on our behalf. The fourth panel reveals the continuing work of the Holy Spirit as He reconciles us to God; and through us, reconciles the world to Himself. The final panel looks forward to the beauty and promise of the New Jerusalem, the perfect “making new” of all things, where the dwelling place of God is with man. Above all else, the story of the Bible is God’s story to man: His mercy, His grace, His righteous character, His creative work, and His stubborn love. Together, these five panels represent the whole thrust of the Gospel: Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Consummation.

Throughout the artwork, different colors symbolize various realities and images:
BLACK - darkness, death, sin, disease, famine, sorrow, mystery, confusion
BLUE - truth, heaven, the Ten Commandments, judgment, the righteousness of God, holiness
RED / SCARLET / ORANGE - blood, sin, sacrifice, covenant, war, fire of judgement
PURPLE - royalty, riches
AMBER - the overwhelming presence and imminence of God; the glory and majesty of God, the radiant light of God
IVORY - beauty, costly ornamentation
GOLD - precious belongings, God’s love
WHITE - purity, righteousness, radiance

Each week, this artwork serves as a visual accompaniment to our worship liturgy. Just as we gather to retell the Gospel story, proclaim the Lord’s faithfulness, and look forward in hope to the new heavens and the new earth, these panels reflect our worship and remind us of God’s truth. May we take their meaning with us and may it forever point us to Him who was, and is, and is to come.

Artwork by Bethany DeVries