“…We all want truth, that truth which Jesus promised would make us free. But where do we find it? How could it have happened that even in the church story has been lost as a vehicle of truth? Early in our corruption we are taught that fiction is not true. Too many people apologize when they are caught enjoying a book of fiction; they are afraid that it will be considered a waste of time and that they ought to be reading a biography or a book of information on how to pot plants.” Madeleine L’Engle Walking on Water
Ah, those infamous words uttered from Pontius Pilot to Jesus Christ…”What is truth?” (John 18:38). Pilot didn’t recognize Truth Himself, while having a conversation with Him. How easy is it for the rest of the world’s relativists, and even Christians, to miss Truth when confronted with it?
A couple thoughts came to mind when I read the above quote from ML’E. First off, I’d take exception with the idea that “we all want truth.” I think, even as Christians, we often miss truth precisely because we want to hang on to our sin or stay in our comfort zone (probably still sin). But in a more general sense, the world doesn’t want The Truth, they want their truth. They want a worldview to be presented to them that fits in with their truth or they will mock and spit on it, same as they treated The Truth, the man Jesus Christ. So, it would seem that some things will never change.
Still postulating in a general sense, I’d also argue that truth—true truth, if I may so emphasize—resonates with everyone to an extent. As Romans 2:15 says, “They show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.” That means that there are some elemental things about right and wrong that most of us, saved or not, believe.
So, how do we Christians (that have Truth), reach out to the world that thinks their truth is sufficient . . . or that considering truth isn’t interesting enough to get off Facebook or shut off their Kindle for?
Stories.
Yes, stories. Why do movies and books rake in billions every year? Are people absorbed in documentaries about the rare waterlily of Kyoto, Japan? Are they reading books about cleaning chimneys? Of course not, they are drawn to stories.
We all relate to tales that tug at our sense of truth and beauty, that innate truth that the Creator spoke into our genetic existence. We all want to cheer on a cause and see the good guys win in the end (well, that can be a grey area in some stories, sometimes we are cheering more for the interestingly flawed character than the most wholesome one).
Until recently, it seems Christians have missed this powerful vehicle to convey truth. Only in the past couple of years has the idea of “storying,” or explaining the gospel through retelling the major themed stories of the Bible, been an evangelism technique that I have heard about. I believe missionaries have used this idea for many years. After all, if you live in a culture that has no idea what the Bible is, then quoting isolated scriptures may have little impact.
Universally, we all love a good story. A tale that appeals to our sense of justice and envelopes our passions will speak volumes of truth. So why do we, Christian writers and readers, apologize (or mumble an excuse) about our love for fiction?
I’m guilty as well! I recently wrote about the reaction I get when I tell people I write fantasy. It’s not something that strokes the ego, LOL. Actually, non Christians seem to find it more appealing, based on their enthusiastic nods, than the Christians, based on their raised eyebrows. And well, if you’re sitting at home reading The Fault in our Stars when Sister Bertha comes by to drop off homemade fruitcake, I bet you’ll slide the book behind a throw pillow before opening the door. I know I would.
But stories are a vehicle of truth. A powerful one.
Yes, there are stories full of fluff out there. Stories that waste time and insult intelligence. Stories that glorify sin and break down society. But think about the stories that make people take notice. Think about the themes of the movies and books that make it to blockbuster/bestseller status. They are stories (usually) that uphold basic, biblical truths . . . even when an unbelieving author has no intention to do so.
Themes like sacrificial love, and good triumphing over evil speak to our souls! They are full of truth. So how are you, Christian writer friend, going to go about being salt and light? How am I? Are we able to boldly tell tales that weave these universal truths for others to read? Are we able to convey God’s passion and heart in epic adventures? Are we able to speak clearly when someone asks us what we write or what we are reading?
Well, yes, but only by God’s grace. Let’s get that out there on the table. Not as a trite addition to our agenda but as a fact. If we aren’t using our gifts to glorify Him then we are not fully using our gifts. Rather than gleaming gems, they will be more like unpolished agates. Does that mean we only write for a Christian audience? No, that would be missing the point entirely. Write for Christ. What story does He want you to tell? That will dictate who will be reading it.
Either way, stories are vital. I’m glad that some Christian producers are finally recognizing the power of a story and making some movies that are able to speak to the masses. Grant it, the acting isn’t always great, but with each box office attempt I see improvements in quality—even as there is a bigger reach to the unbeliever that will go to a movie theater before they’d grace the doors of a church.
I want to be a part of claiming the arts for Christ, don’t you? In fact, that’s the school motto of Travis Academy of Fine Arts, where I work. I’m so thankful to be a part of this movement on a couple of different fronts. From ballet to book writing, my desire is to reflect the Greatest Story Ever Told and use the means available to me to share it with as many others as possible.
What do you think? Am I overly optimistic in my hopes to convey truth through story? Why do you think fiction is considered a ‘lesser’ genre of books among Christian circles? Do you agree or disagree? Enquiring minds want to know!
I find myself quite mesmerized by people who don’t enjoy a good piece of fiction once in a while. I enjoy theology, and I like a well written biography, but fiction is what sets my creative juices flowing. Ironic, since I don’t write fiction as a general rule! I think the key in any form of art is to push oneself to do it well. Whether fiction or non-fiction, if a book has taken little thought and effort, it’s probably not all that good.
Ooh, good observation! And whenever I enjoy reading something I wouldn’t normally pick to read, I think of you stating that when a story is well written, it doesn’t matter the genre. Finding that to be an absolute 🙂
This is great. So many beautiful, touching, and/or powerful thoughts I could quote.
YES on the power of stories! Even ones that don’t “preach.” I used to think that anything that didn’t say “God” couldn’t glorify God. Now, however, I know that non-Christian stories can be used to honor God’s name and impact readers in a good way. (My goal for my someday fantasy series.)
Just ask J.R.R. Tolkien. Every time I watch the Lord of the Rings, I am inspired to write something with that kind of nobility, that kind of beauty, that kind of purity, that kind of good over evil, that kind of power to move. (Sorry, but I don’t have time to read the books as often as I watch the movies. They’re close enough.) Last time I watched The Return of the King, I bawled through it — and then wrote a 600-word journal entry about it. That’s the kind of impact I want my stories to have on my readers.
Yes. Stories are powerful. Let’s use that power in a good way.
That’s an excellent example, Melissa. I remember going to see a well-produced and acted play of “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.” I was crying when Aslan appeared, alive and glorious, and came walking and singing down the aisle! It was so powerful.
Love this! I’m a huge believer that the movies and books that appeal to everyday Joes and Janes, (Not the ones Hollywood tells us are amazing) have this kernel of Christianity. The concept of giving ones life as the truest act of love is a Christian concept that is treasured by everyone. I also think stories appeal to all of us because we are created in the image of God. He didn’t give us Truth in a technical manual, He gave us the Bible, and He gives us pastors to help us understand the stories there. I think we all learn better from stories. While I seem to be on a non-fiction kick right now, I’m still devouring stories.
I have never been afraid to say I read fiction, but I do get the raised eyebrow when I say fantasy. I think it has to do with chainmail bikinis. It’s their fault. 🙂
Preach it, Abby! I knew you would have some helpful input along these lines. Knowing you has helped strengthen what I felt about these ideas. I’m sure you have had some interesting reactions and/or conversations based around the genre of vampire novels 🙂
I saw a blog post today that compared writing stories to being a missionary. God might use your stories to touch someone’s heart, and you’ll never know how unless you get the book out there! I had never considered that all storytelling is a vehicle of evangelism before, because I eschew the kind of “storytelling” that’s actually just a moral message wrapped up in a contrived plot. But really, God can use our art for His glory, especially when we are striving to serve Him with our efforts and learning how to utilize our skills to the best of our ability, with His help. I don’t think you are overly optimistic at all! 🙂
Oh, I like that comparison! That’s good motivation to write, isn’t it? And yes, the moral message is not the same as the eternal message, that’s a good point. I think it’s easier to be moral, because it tends to feel like something we can control and produce, but the results will fall short and ring preachy or sound condescending. It won’t change hearts. Thanks for weighing in and being optimistic with me!