We had a discussion in the forums on Faithwriters about writing from a Christian viewpoint. Is it possible to write in other genres while maintaining your witness? I wrote up a post on the Masters Artists blog about it. Check it out if you want, and leave a comment.

http://themastersartist.blogspot.com/2004/08/faith-and-footprints-this-week-ive_11.html

Thanks! - Donna

Thought provoking article, Donna!... I left you a comment!

Then... Is there really a "christian" book, novel, poem, etc. Or are there books, novels, poems, etc., written by christians?

Thanks for stopping by and leaving your thoughts. I appreciate it!

Some folks think they are Writers who happen to be Christians. Other think that because they are Christians, everything they write should reflect an evangelical message of some kind.

My thinking is that as a Christian, my attitude and heart that belongs to Jesus will come through in my writing, no matter what kind it is - even a children's poem.

Over at the that site, we've had a lot of interesting posts about this very subject.

Thanks again!

Donna

I agree this is a very interesting subject.

I understand that we (christian writers) can and should strive to bring God honor and glory in anything we do, and... that doesn't mean everything we write must have a direct evangelical teaching.

This a good question. All I can is that from my perspective, I try and write articles that are interesting, uplifting and Christian. Not all of my articles are Christian but I try and bring in elements of hope and show a clear contrast between living a Christian life and living an ungodly life.

I love the theme, "what you sow, you will reap." This is the basis for a lot of my articles--be it Christian or non.

Whether we're good or bad, there's a 'pay up' time and this makes for interesting reading; fictional or non.

Great topic; one that makes one search a bit deeper.

Hi, Toni. Thanks for weighing in on the subject.

I cut and pasted the entire quote, and sent you a private message. Thanks!

Donna

[ August 12, 2004, 09:19 PM: Message edited by: DonnaJ ]

Here is the reply I gave at Faithwriters:
This is a question I've been asked before. What constraints are placed on a Christian writer? I believe the only constraints come from God. I should not be writing titillating scenes; lifting up Satan; or using God's name in vain, for starters. I firmly believe that Christian Writers need to talk with God before they write. I don't do this all the time, but wish I did. Be reminded that out of the trashpiles can come the greatest Christians. They have lived life without God and so their stories are believable to others like them. A common ground is found that draws a non-Christian in. And if I can subtly work the plan of salvation into the plot line, then even if one reader turns to God, my work is complete. I think once we start judging the content of a Christian writer's work, we step into the place of judgement ourselves. Writing is a personal thing, shared by the author and God and inspired by God. I've read many, many, many books and was surprised to discover even Steven King believes in God. Does that make him a Christian writer? Is anyone brave enough to ask him? Supernatural elements are Christian - God is supernatural himself. As long as it is made clear that Satan is not to be worshiped, but to be run from; and I do not dishonor God in any way (He will let me know), then writing of all genres can become acceptable.

Speaking of the vampire stuff brought to mind Anne Rice's "Beauty" series. Sodomy, illicit sex, torture, all written as erotica IS NOT a Christian Work.
A fantasy story of a vampire that believed in God - what's wrong with that?

Profanity can be worked around as said by others before me. It's not necessary to use the words to get the meaning across.
Unmarried sex can be explained with very few words - someone once said - shut the door when the characters go at it.
Married sex should be treated the same way - it's none of my business what a married couple does.

Life must be portrayed in a manner that lures the reader into the book if your wish is to keep him there long enough to plant a seed. God will show you how to do it and be pleasing to him.

My two cents worth

Dian, I like your 2 cents and think it's worth more than that!

I agree with prayer before writing. It's amazing what we discover about ourselves and others when we do that.

Have you ever read something you wrote weeks, months, years ago and been surprised that such wise words came from you? That's when I know the Holy Spirit has intervened.

Yes, Dotsie - I HAVE read something later that I could barely remember writing. God uses me as a tool, and I wouldn't want it any other way. He is the author of my gifts and there's no better way than to let the Master guide my thoughts and words.