Photo by Brett Jordan
Silas Ruben Marshall is the author of The Christian Handbook of Survival, and when you open the book and read it from front to back, it is clear that Christ is all and in all of his words. Marshall is definitely a part of that illustrious cadre of authors who are writing for the pious and faithful.
As such, his words are worth reading more about.
First and Foremost, A Christian Writer
Writing for a pious and faithful Christian audience is a profound responsibility, and Silas Marshall carries it with grace and dignity. It is a unique privilege to write for Christ and Christians. The Christian reader stands out because they read with a deep investment that is colored by their faith. Their reading is not different from seeking nourishment for their souls. As such, a Christian writer should do well to remember that their words must help in strengthening their readers’ understanding of the Word of God.
The Lord is my strength and my defense;
he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
my father’s God, and I will exalt him.
To effectively communicate with this audience, the central tenet of one’s writing (as Marshall shows) must be the all-encompassing truth that Christ is all and in all. Every word, every concept, every narrative should ultimately point back to Him, reflecting His sovereignty, His love, and His redemptive work.
Photo by Judit Peter
With Scripture as the Foundation
The bedrock of a Christian writer’s work must always be an unwavering adherence to Scripture. To stray away from this is to essentially step back and run away from one’s obligations and duties as a believer and follower of Christ.
As the inspired and authoritative Word of God, the Bible is foundational. Therefore, one’s writing must be fully grounded on its teachings and not an iota less!
With that in mind, the overarching theme of every piece of writing (as is evidenced by The Christian Handbook of Survival) should be the elevation of Jesus Christ. He is not merely a figure of history or a popular moral teacher; Christ is the Son of God, the Savior of the world, the Alpha and the Omega. Every topic, whether it directly addresses Christ or explores other aspects of faith, should ultimately point to his centrality in everything. Christ is all and in all. Setting this truth free should be the goal of every Christian writer.
Through consistent integration of Christ’s life and teachings into one’s writings–whether overtly or covertly–the writer is better able to resonate with the core of their audience, offering them works that truly edify what it means to be a Christian.
Speaking on Behalf of Christ
While one can never speak as Christ, it is not untoward and unheard of to be the medium through which Christ speaks.
In their utmost devotion and piety, Christians are always seeking out a more thorough understanding of Scripture. They desire a deeper and more intimate relationship with God.
Thus, Christian writing should aim to speak to their hearts.
- Write passages that employ evocative language that stirs the emotions and connects with their spiritual experiences.
- Share stories of faith, perseverance, and God’s faithfulness.
- Offer practical applications of biblical principles that encourage readers to live out their faith in tangible ways.
- Encourage prayer, reflection, and a deeper engagement with spiritual disciplines.
By addressing the heart as well as the mind, we can create writing that not only informs but also transforms. The Christian life is not without its challenges. Christian readers seek guidance and encouragement in navigating trials, doubts, and the complexities of the modern world.
Your writing can serve as a source of hope and strength by addressing these realities through a Christ-centered lens. Good Christian writing acknowledges the difficulties of life while consistently pointing to Christ as the ultimate source of comfort, peace, and victory.
Remind readers of God’s promises and his unwavering love, fostering a sense of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Photo by Tara Winstead
Living out the truth of Christ is a lifelong journey of growth and transformation, and Christian writing helps incredibly.
For a truly groundbreaking work of personal testament and Christian faith, Silas Marshall’s The Christian Handbook for Survival is available on his personal website. Simply click on the link provided to take you there.
