Is there some reason why there would not be a statue in a Baptist Church? I’m not familiar with the various Baptist denominations, much less all.of the other various Christian denominations. Does the theology discourage or prohibit such displays?
I have been a Southern Baptist all my life.
I can’t recall there being a strict ban on statues but I know they are not encouraged. I do know that Southern Baptists prefer plain crosses rather than ones with Jesus on them.
I believe it has something to do with Christ resurrected. Also a bit about graven images.
In the more “conservative” interpretation of Baptist theology, having statues creates the opportunity and possible support for, idolatry. It is also believed that Catholics practice idolatry by praying to statues, icons, bones of saints etc.
Further, greater emphasis is placed on Jesus teaching on how to pray, where Christians are taught to pray directly to God. Not to Jesus, not to Mary, not to the Apostles or any other person or being.
“Thou shall not make unto Me any graven image.”
If you believe that Christ the Redeemer is the true son of God, a part of God, then you don’t make a statue of Him. It can be construed as idolatry.
Most believe it violates the commandment not to have any graven images.
Yes, God Himself specifically prohibits this in Exodus 20: 3 - 4.