Banned Books 437: John of Damascus - Apologia Against Those Who Decry Holy Images
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Apr 26, 2026 A lively dive into the defense of icons, exploring why images matter in worship and how Scripture and tradition are used to justify them. They unpack Greek terms distinguishing veneration from divine worship and trace the incarnation as the theological basis for depicting Christ. Debate with Judaism and Islam, pastoral practices like kissing icons, and the role of liturgy and imagination also get examined.
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Incarnation Makes Icons Theologically Possible
- Christian icons are defended because Christ became visible in flesh, so matter can bear divine meaning.
- John of Damascus argues we may depict Jesus' human form safely because the incarnation localized the invisible God into matter.
A 'Bloodless' Funeral Taught The Need For Gospel Clarity
- Scott recounts a funeral he found 'bloodless' because the preacher omitted Christ and the resurrection, which provoked him to later give clearer gospel preaching.
- He urges guest preachers and eulogists to emphasize baptism and resurrection to comfort grieving people.
Veneration Versus Worship Is The Key Distinction
- Veneration (proskuneo) differs from latreia (adoration); icons receive honor, not the exclusive worship due to God.
- The Seventh Ecumenical Council distinguishes reverence for icons from divine worship to avoid idolatry charges.
