Writing…for Such a Time as This

By Terry Overton @TerryOverton6

There is no question our world needs books by Christian authors. We are called through the Great Commission to spread the good news of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth. Christian authors may teach the Gospel through stories of redemption. A review of books by Christian
authors reveals redemption is incorporated into romance novels, historical novels, and even simple stories written for children. Redemption stories allow authors to explain the foundations of our faith, grace, and forgiveness through our Savior, using compelling plots, relationships, and adventures. We hope nonbelievers, and believers who have fallen away, will reconsider their faith after reading these works.

Christian authors have an opportunity in today’s world to address the greatest needs of the current popular culture. An examination of headlines and outcomes of various community events provides hard evidence of the masses falling back into sin. With the hate and vitriol
present in some segments of our world, it is easy to see that multitudes of people need to turn to God or return to Him. Can Christian authors play a role in turning eyes back to our faith? Most certainly.

Christians are aware of the long history of the persecution of believers. Since the first century of the Christian church, those who desired to spread the good news have been the target of violence. The current persecution of Christians today is evident in countries around the world. This includes the persecution of missionaries who travel to countries to establish churches, schools, health clinics, and teach the Bible.

But more recently, in our own country Christians are the target of attacks through media, cancelling or ghosting, and even physical violence. How do Christian writers fit into this bigger picture? Can the writings of mere everyday people impact the world? Absolutely, beginning with
the writings of the Apostles. In more recent history and our current world, authors like C.S. Lewis, Lee Strobel, Billy Graham, Max Lucado, Sarah Young, to name a few, impact readers who wonder about our faith, seek God, or look to return back to Him.

Perhaps as writers, we should examine the culture carefully to determine how we can reach readers and make a real difference in their lives. Where is Christian writing needed the most? Today it is clear. The largest segment of the population with the greatest need for guidance
and instruction in Christianity is our children. Teenagers and young adults are in great need as well. Books that promote the popular sinful culture are readily available and have great exposure. At the same time, these vulnerable segments of society may not know about wholesome Christian alternatives and beliefs. For this reason, my writing focus over the past two years has been writing for children, teen, and young adult readers.

The younger age groups of readers are attracted to exciting, entertaining, books with great characters and plots, which are based in Christianity. A couple of recently released series, The Underground Book Readers series and The Newton Chronicles series, are written to engage readers and teach the foundations of Christianity. For young adults, teens, and preteens, The Underground Book Readers series presents Scripture and Christian values set in a futuristic world where print books are forbidden. These teenage main characters find and hide books, study books, and teach the Bible while averting imminent danger. In The Newton Chronicles, children time travel through both the Old and New Testaments. In series like these, children, teens, and young adults can learn from Christian authors. We can use our God-given gifts to teach these vulnerable readers.

Terry Overton obtained her Ph.D. in Psychology and her Ed. D. in special education. As a retired professor, she began her second “career” writing Christian books in 2016. She hopes to touch her readers and kindle their faith with her novels, middle grade readers, and picture books. Her series, The Underground Book Readers, provides an opportunity for children and teens to see what a world would be like without books, schools, and churches and how they use Scripture and their friendships to survive. The Newton Chronicles teaches middle grade readers Bible history and Scripture through time travel. The Oddball Ornaments books teach the true meaning of Christmas and forgiveness. Stay connected with Terry on her main website, Fiction Finder, Facebook or Linked-In.