Some say that if a story involves Biblical truth, then it's Christian fiction. End of story.
Others argue that there is no such thing as Christian fiction. But neither is there Buhddist fiction or materialistic fiction. There's simply fiction and non-fiction. After all, fiction doesn't live and breathe and have a soul, is not in need of salvation, therefore is not capable of being 'Christian'.
I used to be in that camp, but I came across an interesting quote by Doug Wilson this weekend that made me pack up my tent and portage over to the other campsite.
"The world (and all it contains) is Christian because Jesus is the Lord of it. If something is expressly prohibited by Him, then that rebellion will be punished because He is Lord. If He did not prohibit it, then hearts full of gratitude may do as they please with it, and His lordship is extended over the enterprise for blessing."Not only does this change my mind about the concept that fiction can indeed be 'Christian', but it gave me a whole new stamp of approval to write. If I am honoring to God in the stories that I tell, then the fiction I create with the faculties my Creator has blessed me with is Christian because Jesus is the Lord of it.
Wow. That's a huge thought for little ol' me, and I'm just barely grasping the essence of it. If you'd like more fodder for thought to delve deeper: Fiction Plumb Line, Blog and Mablog, deCOMPOSE.
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5 comments:
I, personally, like the fact that books are labeled 'Christian Fiction', because it helps to filter out your choices. If all books were labeled just simply 'Fiction' or 'Non-Fiction', then some great Christian authors would get lost in the shuffle. Granted, maybe some people who try to stay away from Christian books might accidentally purchase one and learn something valuable...that would be a definite upside to the generic labeling. It is just easier to go to a book store or site and put in 'Christian Fiction' and avoid all of the secular choices. Great post as usual! Have a great week!
And a great comment, as usual, m'dear! I also agree with you on the benefits of labeling. At least when you pick up a book advertising itself as Christian fiction, you can expect f-bombs won't be dropped on your head.
Hmmm, interesting quote. :-) I used to read nothing but CBA and classics, but lately, I've stepped into the waters of recommended ABA clean romance. My thinking has been changed also--a story that doesn't have themes of forgiveness and redemption can still be glorifying to God, because a writer's worldview will be on every page. And I can't help but wonder if that isn't the more effective witness at times. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. :-)
Thanks for sharing YOUR thoughts, girlie!
Maybe there is a problem with what some people would count as 'Christian' fiction' like the Harry (boo hiss) Potter book. Some would insist that these are 'Christian allegories' and read 'Christian' meanings and interpretations into a book which may not be Christian at all.
Where does one draw the line?
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