How Close Can Christian Writers Get Before Falling Off the Creative Cliff?
A common topic on Christian writing forums is boundaries for Christian writers. Are there any? It seems like many want to push sexual limits, portray dystopian futures, use profane language, and otherwise copy contemporary culture.
Can Christian writers have one foot in heaven and the other on a banana peel?
I’ve been a Christian writer for decades and have edited scores of Christian books for clients, and I believe there are some boundaries. They may seem blurred to some because we stand at a unique intersection where faith meets the complexities of modern life.
Nevertheless, Christian writers have the opportunity and responsibility to shape conversations, challenge perspectives, and inspire change while remaining grounded in Scripture’s transformative truths.
In a world of competing narratives, the Christian writer’s role is both a calling and a responsibility. How can today’s writers ensure their work aligns with biblical principles while effectively addressing contemporary societal challenges? What are the boundaries, and how can we respect them to honor our Lord?
Rooted in Scripture: The Foundation for Christian Writing
Scripture is the bedrock of the Christian life, and for writers, it provides the ultimate guide for truth and wisdom. Like the Bereans who diligently checked Paul’s teachings against the Scriptures (Acts 17:11), Christian writers must anchor their work in God’s Word to ensure faithfulness to His truth.
Christian Fiction and Nonfiction
Does that mean Christian fiction must only be Bible stories? Of course not. Most must be set in the real world so readers can identify with the characters and plot. Yet, that does not mean there must be detailed descriptions of sinful behavior.
In nonfiction, if your book is about any topic the Bible touches on (philosophy, psychology, relationships, spirituality (or any other of a hundred different human topics), a writer can and should remain true to Christian values.
The Bereans were noted for their noble character because they eagerly examined the Scriptures daily to verify what they heard (Acts 17:11). This same principle applies to writing. Writers must avoid prioritizing popular opinions or trends over biblical accuracy. Instead, they should approach their craft with humility and diligence, ensuring that their words reflect the timeless truths of Scripture.
Addressing Modern Issues Biblically
Modern issues are deeply complex, from discussions on ethics and justice to explorations of identity and purpose. Christian writers are uniquely positioned to bring biblical clarity to these topics. For example:
- Identity issues can be addressed through Genesis 1:27, which affirms that humanity is created in God’s image.
- Justice can be explored through Micah 6:8, which calls believers to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.
- Human progress can be accessed through hope (Psalm 42:11), not dark dystopian views.
By grounding their perspectives in Scripture, writers offer readers a view readers may not get elsewhere.
The Dangers of Scriptural Misuse
Misinterpreting or selectively using Scripture to support personal opinions can lead to confusion and harm. James 3:1 warns that teachers, including writers, will be judged more strictly.
Christian writers must be like the Bereans, ensuring their work is aligned with the truth of Scripture, which remains a reliable compass in navigating modern challenges.
This caution should encourage Christian writers to approach their work with reverence and commit to correctly handling the Word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).
Glorify God Through Words
Writing is not just a skill; it can be an act of worship when done for the glory of God. Colossians 3:17 reminds us, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” For Christian writers, this means approaching their craft with reverence and gratitude.
Write for God’s Glory
When writers focus on glorifying God rather than seeking personal acclaim, their work gains eternal significance. This perspective transforms writing from a mere profession or hobby into a spiritual offering.
Many churchgoers remember Fanny J. Crosby. She wrote over 8,000 hymns, which is a testament to this principle. Despite being blind, she saw her writing as a means to honor God, leaving a legacy that inspires worship.
Excellence as Worship
Worship through writing also involves striving for excellence. Proverbs 22:29 highlights the value of skillful work: “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings.”
Writing can be a form of worship when done with a heart focused on glorifying God and a commitment to excellence that reflects his character.
Christian writers should aim to craft their words with precision, creativity, and depth, reflecting the excellence of the Creator they serve.
Guarding Against Distractions
I have discussed the problem of distractions in other articles. But I am talking about a different kind of distraction here that can hamper your writing for the Lord.
In pursuing worshipful writing, it is easy to become distracted by worldly success metrics, such as popularity or financial gain. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:33 to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.” When writers prioritize God’s kingdom, their work transcends temporal concerns and contributes to His eternal purposes.
Anyone can write about drugs, sex, and rock ‘n roll, but do you need to go to the edge of that gutter to be relevant. No. Good Christian writers can write about all aspects of life, including sin, without themselves dropping into the pit.
Guiding Readers Towards Righteous Reflection
Christian writers can use their words to guide readers toward introspection and spiritual growth. Hebrews 4:12 declares, “The word of God is alive and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.”
When Christian writers infuse their work with biblical truth, apparent to the reader or not, they create opportunities for readers to encounter the living Word.
The Transformative Power of the Word
Christian writing has the unique ability to spark transformation by pointing readers to God’s truth. For instance, C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity continues to guide countless readers toward more profound understanding and reflection.
By presenting complex theological concepts in accessible language, Lewis helped readers grapple with profound truths, often leading them to faith.
Encourage Introspection
Good writing prompts readers to examine their lives and consider their relationship with God. Christian authors can pose questions that inspire soul-searching through storytelling, essays, or devotional writing.
A well-written piece might challenge readers to evaluate their priorities, confront sin, or seek deeper intimacy with God.
Provide Hope and Direction
Christian writers can offer hope grounded in the Gospel in a world often marked by despair and confusion. Whether addressing grief, injustice, or doubt, writers can remind readers of God’s promises and the ultimate hope found in Jesus.
Christian writers have a sacred opportunity to guide readers toward introspection and point them to the Gospel’s transformative power.
Paul’s letters serve as a model for combining encouragement with theological depth. Romans 8 is an example of that. Paul offers assurance that nothing can separate believers from God’s love in about 900 words.
As a writing exercise, you might try integrating the meat of Romans 8 into your Romance novel. Let me suggest that author Iris Murdoch could do this, and you may want to read and study her novels. I suggest you start with The Unicorn, although most of the other 25 novels she wrote also exhibit her ability to subtly insert Christian truth into fiction that people want to read.
Your Call to Be a Christian Writer
The call to Christian writing is both a privilege and a responsibility. By remaining rooted in Scripture, approaching writing as worship, and guiding readers toward righteous reflection, Christian writers can fulfill their God-given mission to influence hearts and minds for His glory.
- Study the Word deeply. Let Scripture shape your thinking and writing. Approach it with the humility and diligence of the Bereans.
- Write with purpose. Treat your writing as worship, aiming for excellence and prioritizing God’s glory over worldly success. Distill the biblical principles and inject them into your characters.
- Challenge and inspire. Use your platform to encourage readers to reflect on their lives and point them toward the hope and truth of the Gospel.
In a noisy world, Christian writers can shine as beacons of light, offering words that uplift, challenge, and ultimately draw people closer to Christ. Yes, you can write about the seedy side of life so that the spiritual transformation stands out. But do it with discernment and class.
Sources cited: Unless otherwise noted, Bible quotations are from the English Standard Version (ESV).
