J. Novis Elkins

Teaching Pastor, Biblical Commentator, Author, and Visual Artist

J. Novis Elkins is a multifaceted creative whose ministry uniquely blends biblical scholarship, literary craftsmanship, and visual artistry. Serving as Teaching Pastor at Sovereign Grace Fellowship in Brazoria, Texas, John has spent over two decades helping believers encounter the living God through both word and image—making the invisible truths of Scripture visible through paint and prose.

The Artist-Theologian

John’s artistic practice is inseparable from his theological vision. His original paintings serve as visual theology, translating complex biblical concepts into contemplative imagery that invites worship. In his painting “Elohim,” explosive yellows burst onto the canvas representing the Creator God speaking light into existence, while hidden in the purple depths lurks the tail of Leviathan and the form of Adam taking shape on green land—a single image capturing the entire drama of Genesis 1. His “El Roi” painting depicts the heat of the desert crashing into the light of the Spirit, using collision and contrast of color to convey Hagar’s encounter with the God who sees. Each brushstroke becomes an act of exposition, making theological truth tangible.

His artwork frequently accompanies his written work, creating a holistic worship experience. Whether painting the cleansing waters and purifying fire of sanctification for “Jehovah Mekoddishkem” or depicting the humble purple towel and earthenware bowl of Christ’s foot-washing for “Love Like Jesus,” John’s art doesn’t merely illustrate his teaching—it deepens it. The visual and verbal work together to create space for meditation and encounter with God.

John accepts commissioned artwork and sells prints of his original pieces, making his visual theology accessible to churches and individual believers who desire art that genuinely reflects biblical truth rather than sentimentality. His portfolio spans lighthouses, wildlife, and abstract theological concepts—all rendered with the same pastoral care he brings to his biblical exposition.

The Writer’s Craft

As an author, John has produced an impressive body of work including comprehensive commentaries on Genesis (The Life of Jacob), Philippians, Ephesians, 1 Thessalonians, and Colossians: Finding Your Identity in Christ. His recent project, From Garden to Garden: The Gospel Hidden in Genesis, demonstrates his gift for redemptive-historical interpretation—showing how Old Testament narratives point forward to Christ. Currently, he is developing an exposition of the Gospel of John alongside a comprehensive book series on the Holy Spirit.

John’s distinctive voice—marked by conversational warmth, theological precision, and practical application—makes complex biblical truths accessible to everyday believers. He excels at transforming sermon transcripts into polished written work while preserving authentic pastoral tone, whether unpacking Paul’s letters or exploring the names of God through Scripture.

Beyond biblical commentary, John has ventured into Christian fiction with The Knife of Ausbury Street, a Christian thriller that showcases his narrative skill and theological imagination.

The “Book in a Week” Series

Perhaps nowhere is John’s integration of art and theology more evident than in his innovative “Book in a Week” poetry collections. These remarkable projects—each produced from conception to completion within seven days—combine original poetry with his own artwork to create worship-inspiring volumes on specific themes:

• The Bird Psalm: A worship song through the eyes of a bird, celebrating creation’s praise
• God Loves You: Poetry expressing the Father heart of God toward His children
• Expressions: Reflections on living in church community
• Expressions: Poems of a Church in Exile: Wrestling with faith during the pandemic
• Jo-bits and Jack, Garden Defenders: Exploring the cultivation of spiritual life

Each volume demonstrates John’s ability to work rapidly without sacrificing quality, producing art and poetry that genuinely serve the church’s worship life rather than mere religious decoration.

Ministry Philosophy

John’s creative work—whether painting, poetry, commentary, or fiction—flows from a singular conviction: people need to encounter El Roi, the God who sees. His art helps believers see God more clearly, while his writing helps them understand Him more deeply. Both disciplines serve the same pastoral purpose: helping Christians know and love Jesus Christ through faithful, creative engagement with Scripture.

His commentaries, study materials, artwork, and blog posts at jnoviselkins.wordpress.com all share this Christ-centered, redemptive-historical approach. John bridges the gap between academic biblical scholarship and everyday Christian experience, making him a trusted resource for pastors, small group leaders, artists, and believers seeking to grow in understanding and worship.

Whether holding a pen or a brush, John Elkins pursues the same calling: making the beauty of Christ visible to the people of God.

For speaking engagements, commissioned artwork, manuscript inquiries, or print purchases, contact J. Novis Elkins at novis_elkins@hotmail.com (Be sure to include “commission” in your subject line.