Step Out Of The Christian Book Genre Box

As a Christian and a writer, do you only write for the Christian market? Do you only read stories that can only be found primarily in Christian bookstores? Do you believe that writing or reading Christian fiction is a sin? In your opinion, what makes a book a Christian book?

I don't believe reading or writing a fictional story is a sin. Remember, Jesus often spoke in parables. Parables are stories that reveal spiritual truth. Fiction is supposed to reflect real life. Sometimes there are happy endings and some there aren't. Thinking about your own life, do things always go the way you want them to? No, there are crooks and turns, unexpected occurrences that you have no control over.

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Readers love stories that they can see themselves in. As a writer, think about your journey of coming to know Jesus. There were rebellious times, and times when you did and dealt with things that were so far from being a Christian that you now shudder when you think about them. Sometimes you had no clue you were being led to Christ, but as you look back, you see the gentle leading of God's hand. This is the story that will reach unbelievers.
 
Although the characters may start out living a sinful life, the story need not be full of sinful content to be entertaining. Let your characters get the message of redemption across through actions and symbolism without preaching.
Christian books need not be limited to devotionals, self-help, Bible studies and commentaries. Christian fiction book genres can include:

• Action and Adventure,
• Romance,
• Mystery and Crime,
• Science Fiction,
• Historical Fiction,
• Urban,
• Western,

and any other genre, as long as the characters somehow show the mercy and love of God and share the message of the Gospel. Pray and trust the Holy Spirit to help you write a beautiful, helpful, powerful message that will be remembered long after the book is closed. Don't be afraid to deal with the tough issues, this is exactly what a good book should entail.

These are my thoughts and my goals with my stories. As a reader or a writer, what are you looking for in a Christian book?