VISUAL ART IN CHRISTO-CENTRIC RELIGIOUS WORSHIP AS A CATALYST FOR EPIGNOSIS: A SYSTEMATIC DESKTOP STUDY

Mofunanya Anthony, Calista Oduchukwu Nwosu

Abstract


Abstract This article examines the role of visual art in Christ-centred Christian worship as a theological medium that supports Epignosis. Epignosis is a New Testament concept that describes a deep, relational knowledge of God. Using a systematic desktop research approach, the study synthesises literature from biblical theology, theological aesthetics, art history, and liturgical studies. The analysis argues that visual art in Christian worship functions not only as decoration or teaching material but as a formative medium that shapes spiritual perception and communal worship. Drawing on examples from Eastern Orthodox iconography, Roman Catholic liturgical art, and selected Protestant traditions, the study identifies several ways visual art supports spiritual formation, contemplation, narrative engagement, and embodied participation. The article proposes a conceptual model linking these artistic functions to different dimensions of Epignosis. It also considers theological debates about images in Christian worship and acknowledges the methodological limits of a literature-based study. The findings suggest that visual art can deepen relational knowledge of God when integrated thoughtfully into worship practices.

Keywords: Epignosis; visual theology; liturgical theology; iconography; theological aesthetics; worship studies; spiritual formation Formatting & consistency Christian art; epignosis; visual theology; liturgical theology; iconography; theological aesthetics; worship studies; spiritual formation


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